Village Hat Shop Indian Pith Helmet

It's made of actual pith - not straw, so it's authentic but probably not the best for ventilation.

I had a very similar pith helmet (different company, half the price) that lasted less than a year, only because the synthetic strap tore out. This one has a leather strap and appears to be attached better to the hat. With reasonably gentle treatment, it should last for many years. I have a small head (5' tall), and the hat fits although if I was any smaller that might not be said. I am very pleased. Ventilation, protection from the sun, plus ability to get wet without harm--perfect.

not good quality inner straps. bad inner finishing

This thing smells horrible. It smells like oil. STRONG! Then you take it off, and your hair stinks! Otherwise, it is pretty nice, but I can’t get over the smell.

Nice hat. Good ventilation keeps my head cool. Perfect to wear in hot tropical climates.

So far after a couple weeks, so good. Make sure you measure your dome, they offer a bigger hat on their website. It just fits front to back on my mellon. The big surprise? It is soo much cooler than a ball cap or a fabric sun hat. Its historically proven item....that you hope works and it does work. I think you can buy directly off their web site without the shipping. Regardless, its a really good hat. The fabric is not super heavy duty, but it does have real leather and some plastic leather inside. The plastic is on the suspension system and not in contact with your head. You can feel the air moving inside in a breeze, and you do get a whistle or almost like a plane noise as the winds goes out the vents. It works. Why only 4 stars? Cause if your super picky and expect some ralf loren quality hat for gallivanting around to impress... its not that kind of hat. Its a functional, real deal made with natural materials hat.

I bought this helmet because I like unique things and it will be great if I ever need a lightweight helmet to explore a jungle, of course! It's a great authentic helmet and not just a Halloween prop even though it's perfect for Halloween right? So don't hesitate if you feel the need to experience an authentic expedition helmet, even if you can't figure out exactly why you are urged to buy one, this won't disappoint you. It's lightweight and uses lightweight canvas inner headband. Seems hand crafted and not factory mass produced in any way.

Nice hat, comfortable, well made by hand, it can offer you a cooling effect if you immerse it in water and it offer shade in the really hot direct sun. I have worn one for year in the islands and it is really good any where. Well built and with care it will last for years