Metier Panama Hats at Hattitiude Parnell

Hattitude is proud to be the exclusive New Zealand stockist of Metier Panama hats.

A Panama hat is a traditional, brimmed straw hat from Ecuador. They are made of Toquilla straw, from the leaves of the Carludovica palmata plant which is indigenous to Ecuador.

A true Panama hat is a handmade work of art. No two hats are alike. There will be slight imperfections in colour, weave and finish. These are the result of nature or the artisan’s hand. This is part of what makes these hats so special and unique.

Contrary to popular belief, most styles of authentic toquilla straw Panama hats should never be rolled. Some very fine weaves (eg Fino) can be rolled but over time these will also crack unless handled very carefully.Our Panama hats from Metier do not come off a production line, they are made to our order. Each hat is started and finished by the same person. It can take a couple days or even a couple months to finish a hat depending on the thickness of the straw and the tightness of the weave. Metier hats come with their own waterproof carry bag. All of the Panama hats sold by Hattitude are the genuine article!