Need hat advice

S

SamIam

Joined
Jul 2, 2001
Messages
19
My old hat has disappeared, and my job (geologist in training) requires lots of fieldwork. So my fair skin needs to be protected. I have pretty much decided on the Filson Bush Hat, I like the broad brim. But they offer two types of cloth, the really heavy 12.5 oz stuff, and the 8.5 oz stuff. Here in VA it gets real hot and humid, so I was wondering if the weight of the hat would make a difference about how cool it keeps my head. The heavier cloth is tan, and the lighter stuff is a dark green color, I don’t know if hat color makes a big difference in how hot your head gets either (dark colors absorb more heat etc. . ). Also, does the brim size make a large difference; say between a 3in and a 2in brim? Any input about the options I have specified is appreciated, and any other related suggestions are also welcome.
Thanks
SamIam
 
Tilley makes a good hat and has a good variety of styles, including some lighter ones. I find them rather good for all weather conditions except an absolute downpour. Here's a link.
http://www.tilley.com/index1.asp
 
I'm not familiar with Filson hats, but I am familiar with Tilley hats. My problem with Tilley hats is that the brim isn't broad enough to reliably cover my big nose. They seem like well made hats but, if you have a huge schnoz, stay away from Tilley hats. If you've got a serious honker, be aware of this undersized brim issue and check that you get adequate coverage before buying any hat.
 
Try a Tilley T3, wide brim, and snaps on the sides-Aussie
style. I have had good luck in downpoors also. Just keep
it maintained as recommended and you should be fine.:D
 
I've got to throw my vote in for Tilley as well. My parents took a trip to Maine in 1988 and brought me back a Tilley hat (a new thing back then). I thought it was neat and different when they gave it to me as a present though I thought it was really pricey for what it was. I only began to truly appreciate it when I started wearing it out some. I'm a geologist as well and it has been with me out in the field on job sites in the southeast, fossil collecteding in open pit mines, camping in the mountains, sailing, you name it. It is without a doubt, for me, the best darned hat I've ever had. If it ever wears out, I'll buy another. I sweat like a stuck pig and I generate a lot of body heat (but I never get cold). The cotton absorbs my sweat and evaporates it off for a little cooling effect. It's just the right weight. I use it in the rain and it gets wet but doesn't let my head get drenched (ie. keeps the rain out of my eyes). If I'm out in the rain all day, I accept that I'm gonna get wet. I'm just more interested in keeping my glasses clear.

Off my soapbox now. I really like my Tilley and it has many versatile ways you can wear it.

Nobody
 
Thanks every one for responding. I handled a Tilly hat, which seems to be highly recommended here, and I was also impressed. Though I am going to wait a bit longer until they have the Filsons back in stock so I can compare the two of them. I am (sarcasm) wonderful with decisions, chances are I will be back in school before I get a hat, but I guess I will have that nice weather beaten sunburned look, and most of my weekends fall semester will be spent with my stratigraphy class baking, then I suppose freezing, next to the outcrop. But by all means keep the opinions/ideas coming.
Andrew
 
If you like the Tilley's, which I do, you might also look at the Ultimate Hat, which is similar but a little less expensive. They do have a gore-tex model too. For heavy weather I prefer O.R., either the Seattle Sombrero or the All Seasons Cap. The All Seasons is what I use in the arctic, but it's pretty darn ugly.
For a classy hat, it's tough to beat a Borsalino, but that's a whole different story...
 
I have the Tilly LT5 model and am very pleased with it. It is one of their newer light weight models...and remember that they guarantee that your hat will NEVER wear out or they will replace it. Even comes with a 4 page owners manual:p

I can also recommend the Ultimate line. They have some models of caps with really long bills to cover up those with the longer schnozzes:cool:
 
I live and work in NC, so the heat and humidity are intense. I have the lightweight tan cotton and I think its the perfect hat for me. Bought it on sale for $30.
 
Another vote for the Ultimate Hat.
http://www.ultimatehat.com/
Mine is very comfy.
Like the Tilley's, they have a lifetime warrantee.
I didn't see any difference between the 2 brands so I opted to save $15. Just take your time and find the right size for your head.
And they really don't shrink after washing.
Just gain more character.
Lenny
 
Filson hats with their waxed fabric are great in rainy climates (British Columbia) and waterproof as any hat can be, but they can be hot as they're relatively heavy (you can use them for beating back angry animals, fanning a fire, etc., etc. Look for a booney hat at an army surplus store for something lighter. My all-time favorite though is a 100% beaver fur brimmed cowboy hat (much battered now) which has been on over a quarter century of hunting, fishing and hiking expeditions.
 
Something in straw, by Stetson? The Roadrunner is my fave.
Great for hot weather, OK for rain, fair to poor for winter.
Big brimmed 'cowboy' hats rule for the hot sun :)
 
I'm really happy with my plain old OD boonie hat. I just realized my wife and I have had ours for six years this summer, and they are both still going strong. I thought about buying another hat for camping/outdoor wear, and realized it would be a total waste of $ because there is still a lot of life left in the one I have. It also has a secret map compartment just in case I ever need to hide maps or anything:D
--Josh
 
I've got a Filson and I wear it for everything from backpacking to golf and I really like it. Its the heavyier tan one. I currently live in Texas and I find that the weight doesn't bother me. Also I much prefer it to an umbrella on rainy days. Also, though the band keeps the sweat out of your eyes the hat doesn't absorb it and get all nasty since its waterproofed.

However, I'd go with your plan. Take a look at both of them and choose the one you like.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top