What are Panama hats made out of?

The story behind the answer

Panama hats are woven from toquilla straw—the pliable, breathable fibers of the Carludovica palmata plant native to Ecuador. This straw is split into fine strands and handwoven, sometimes for months, to create lightweight, durable hats. That’s why “straw” is correct, not flax (linen), hemp (bast fiber), or silk (animal fiber).

Despite the name, true Panama hats come from Ecuador. They became known as “Panama” because they were shipped through Panama and gained fame when workers—and even Theodore Roosevelt—wore them during the Panama Canal era. Memory tip: Think “Ecuadorian craftsmanship, Panama pathway