Underwelt/Overwelt in Straw hats...

[Aureliano]

Hi guys,

I'm curious to know your opinions about the subjec of brims in panama hats (non-montecristis)
I own a Borsalino panama and it has an overwelt brim and it's a nice brisa weave.
I see other hats that have an underwelt brim.
Is this also a factor that determines the price of a hat? or is it, just like felt hats, a matter of preference?
Does it depend on the type of weave how the weavers finish brims?
thanks for you your coments.
Aureliano-

 

[HarpPlayerGene]

It is rare to find someone who prefers a welted brim edge on a Panama hat. It is a sign of a lower grade/priced product. I have a couple of them but they are my 'I don't care if they get clobbered while hiking or working' straws.

The preferred treatment is the back-woven edge. Very clean, and an art form of its own with weavers who specialize in this part of Panama hat making.

 

[Aureliano]

That's what I thought. But I wonder then, if the "overwelt" is a sign of lower grade/price hats why does Borsalino make them like that?
This is my hat, I bought it in Milano, Italia and although not outrageously priced it wasn't by any means cheap. what are your thoughts on this harpPlayerGene?

 

[HarpPlayerGene]

I got your PM about this, Aureliano, and replied.

Suffice to say here that they are selling the Borsalino label and therefore also over-charging for the lowest quality of Panama hat there is.

Sorry. I bought one once just like it with the Stetson trademark on it. Those brands used to mean something. No mo'.