When the temperature climbs, nothing beats a straw hat. Lightweight, breathable, and effortlessly stylish, straw hats keep you cool while shielding your face and neck from the sun. Whether you’re after a sharp Panama for a summer wedding or a wide-brim sun hat for the beach, here’s a guide to the best straw hats for men and women — and how to choose the right one.
Why choose a straw hat?
Straw hats are the warm-weather go-to for good reason: the open weave lets air flow while the brim provides shade and UV protection. They pack a lot of style into a lightweight package, and today’s straws range from ultra-casual to genuinely formal — so there’s a straw hat for every occasion.
Straw hats for men
Men have no shortage of great straw options. The Panama hat is the classic dress straw, perfect for weddings and warm-weather events. A straw fedora offers everyday versatility, while a straw cowboy hat delivers Western style with serious sun protection. For a vintage summer statement, try a boater. Browse the full range of men’s straw hats.
Straw hats for women
For women, straw hats blend sun protection with statement style. Wide-brim sun and beach hats offer maximum coverage for the pool or shoreline, many with a UPF 50+ rating. Floppy straws add effortless glamour, the vintage-inspired cloche flatters almost any face, and a women’s straw fedora pairs beautifully with everything from sundresses to denim.
Know your straw
- Toyo — a smooth, durable paper-based straw with a polished finish.
- Raffia — soft, flexible, and often packable, great for travel.
- Toquilla — the fine, hand-woven straw of a genuine Panama hat.
- Paper straw — lightweight and affordable, ideal for casual summer wear.
How to choose
Start with the occasion — a Panama or dress straw for formal events, a bucket or wide-brim for the beach. Consider brim width for how much shade you want, and pick a color that works with your summer wardrobe (naturals and tans are the most versatile).
Shop straw hats
Explore our full collection of straw hats for men and women — with free US shipping on orders over $100.
