Similar a Montecristi weave and many times called a "Montecristi hat" and sold as such in the open market, but it actually isn't. It is made in Cuenca Ecuador so it is a genuine "Panama hat" but not a "Montecristi Panama hat" since it was not made in the city of Montecristi.
This Cuenca version of the "Montecristi hat" goes through the normal treatments of a Cuenca hat. The weave pattern is looser and if you hold it to the sun you will see it is a more open weave, not as air tight as a Montecristi hat. To the untrained eye it does look a lot like a Montecristi hat and in many ways even the coloration can be very similar. That doesn't make it a bad hat, it just makes it a Cuenca hat. They have their upside in price!
Cuenca Grade 4 - Similar to a Montecristi Fino Grade type of weaveThe Classic Optimo Panama hat. Robert Redford and may others used this model. This is the best roll up model, and blocked in standard oval.
The standard crown height of the Optimo model is 4" - 4.5" measuring from the brim to the top of the point on the side of the hat. This Optimo Panama hat is blocked on an standard oval hat block rather then a perfectly round one to fit better.
Snap brim on the front causing the brim to tip downward slightly and upward in the back just a little.
Standard Brim Size: Perfect for most, provides good sun protection and a great balance of style.
Each Panama hat comes with one hat band of your choice, but you may want to include a few extra hat bands- a quick way to change the personality of your Panama hat!
Each and every Panama hat we sell is handmade right here in Ecuador, so no two hats are exactly alike.
DID YOU KNOW? You can custom design a hat exactly to your specifications! Click Here
1. Print our measuring tape to ensure an accurate measurement.
2. Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your head being sure the tape falls above your ears and the ridge of your eyebrows.
3. Using your measurements, you can view our current stock of all Panama hats for your size.
Send us your question about this Cuenca Grade 4 Optimo hat, and we will respond to you as soon as possible.
You can also give us a call, toll-free at 1 800-876-6956
