The classic white cream hat with the distinctive black band is constructed of very thin straw from the Toquilla palm, which only grows along Ecuador’s tropical coast. Using natural dyes, it is now possible to tint the straw in any color besides white and natural-colored. Although there are always false markets alongside the real ones, you should be careful when browsing through different men’s Panama hats for sale.
Material
The replica Cuenca Montecristi Panama hats in New York are typically made of poor-quality materials such as Iraca, Tetera, and Enea. In the Cyclanthus family, it is the Toquilla (Carludovica Palmata) that gives authentic hats their smooth effect. As natural materials, these straw fibers contain invisible impurities, which are the equivalent of diamonds in nature.
Nicely Finished Edge with the Same Straw
The “back woven” brim deserves special notice. Hand-finishing is required on all seams and edges of the hat, and neither binding nor gluing down. They are masterpieces of straw hats from around the world, and even their edges should reveal their craftsmanship and purity. Consequently, it is crucial to get a perfect edge without any stitching or other material.
Stamps
Check the inside tags or labels for a brown stamp that confirms its origin; the best will have the weaver’s autograph.
Easy to Fold
Authentic Cuenca Montecristi Panama hats in New York can be rolled or folded. However, this does not mean the hat should be folded or rolled, since rolling a genuine Panama hat should only be done for ease of transportation, as it will lose its shape and may require ironing to restore it to its original shape.
