www.panamahatsdirect.com

[RF1963]

Gentlemen

As we approach summer I'm thinking of buying a panama hat. Has anyone had any dealings with the above company?

Thanks

 

[Kouros]

They make excellent hats.

 

[Crixus]

Yes, I had them make me one several years ago. Very comfortable. I recommend skipping the less expensive "Cuenca" and commission a lower-end top shelf true Montecristi. It's the real deal, just a little bit larger strand of palm. It's still extremely light. I think mine was about $100 (US dollars) in 2007.

These will have a very slight smokey smell because they use sulphur fumes as opposed to bleach to achieve their color. The true Montecristi has an ever so slight yellowish cast to it. Those in the know will be able to tell if it's a true Panama from across the street due to its distinct hue. The less expensive "Panamas" that many manufacturers seem to put out are more pure white due to the bleach.

The hats from panamahats.direct are like badger brushes--you can pay as much as you want to for what they consider the creme de la creme. Again, I recommend starting out on the lower end OF THE TOP SHELF. It is a fine product, will serve you well, and after two or three seasons you will know if you want to move up the line (at big expense). Good luck.

 

[alaskamcghee]

Fine company. I bought an Optimo from them three years ago. No issues

Johnny

 

[TEAK]

I guess I am the only one that had a horrible experience with them receiving a hat that was nothing like what Casey promised me over the phone.
Save your money and go with true class and quality and get a Brent Black, it will cost twice a much but last 10 times longer and look 100 times better.
http://brentblack.com