I wasn't sure where to put this, but I guess this forum is the right place.

I always wear a hat outdoors-a hat and sunscreen- because the sun is so intense here in Florida. I like a broad brim, to keep the sun off. I had gone through a number of these hats:
They have a broad brim, and where pretty inexpensive- around $15-$20, made in Vietnam or Malaysia. It kept the sun off, but it was unstable in the wind, and my wife said it made me look like a hillbilly.

So about a month ago I took the plunge and bought a Tilley Mesh Hat. Here's the link to the Tilley
site in case anyone was interested. The Tilley mesh hat is head and shoulders better than the cheapie. Here is the Tilley:


It is much more comfortable. The cheap hat stays on by the headband fitting tight. The Tilley stays on with gravity. I didn't realize how uncomfortable the chaep hat was until I became used to the Tilley. So much mor comfortable. The Tilley has structure and style too; it actually looks like a nice hat when it's on my head.

And, it floats. There is some foam in the crown that keeps it's shape and keeps it from sinking. If you've ever lost a hat on the water, you know this is a nice thing,


The mesh is lines on the inside with another layer of breathable mesh, again to provide stucture. The mesh is very cool and the breeze flows through nicely.


The hat is also lined at the crown, and there is an inside velcro pocket, where you could stash some cash, or a fishing license or a key, or whatever. The brim has a dark contrsting color to keep reflection and glare down. The strap is fully adjustable, and can be worn over the back of the head, under the chin, or both.


The hat doesn't blow off. When it is really windy, the back of the head strap really holds it down. When the staps aren't being used, they tuck up inside the hat. This hat is washable and is guaranteed for life not to waer out. It is also insure by Tilley-if it is lost during the first two years you own it they will pay half the cost of a new one. They stand behind the product.

The brim is nice and wide and provides excellent sun protection. It's firm without being stiff, and does not get in my way when I shoot.

This hat isn't cheap, but if you want a really nice, tough, outdoor hat, this one comes highly recommended. Well worth the cost. It's made in Canada, which is a good thing.

This post has been edited by Gmountain: April 26th 2008 7:11 PM

that's a pretty cool looking hat G. that would be nice for those long days on the water fishing.

So, what's your wife think of this one?

She likes it. It makes me look like Indiana Jones, but cooler.

Racer-it was designed for use on the water.

I just got my Tilley T4IS Insect Shield hat last week, and I used it at the range on Saturday. VERY nice hat. As G noted, the Tilley's are designed to NOT fit tightly, but they stay on well, and are super comfortable. There was just a slight breeze at the range, and my hat didn't offer to even budge once, so I had no need of using the neck cord. Mine is the duck canvas all over (no mesh) and repels insects. These Tilleys are great hats, and well worth every penny in their cost.

That's cool. My hat is still great.

Never leave home with out it......

I'm not a big one to plug clothing, but I wanted to report that after 10 months, this is still one one fabulous hat.

I wear this every day-out in the rain, sun and wind. It looks as good as the day I bought it. Really provides a lot of sun protection and keeps my head cool at the same time.

I know summer seems a long way off for a lot o people, but spring is just around the corner, and this hat may be just the thing if you spend time outdoors.

Excellent!

Thanks for the heads up, G!

I need a good quality mesh-type hat for fishing, and this looks like it just might fit the bill!

What model didja get?

It's the TM10. It also floats! You can read about it Here

I just got a Tilly LT for Fathers Day. I love it. Very light weight, classy looks and water proof.

Great hats. Just outstanding. I wear mine everyday.

They are even guarenteed against loss...

I've had my T4IS for just over a year now, and it's still great. I've been camping, hiking, fishing, and shooting in it. Thing still looks brand new. Great hats and well worth the money.