How to Choose a Boater Hat

The boater hat — flat crown, wide brim, unmistakably classic. A summer staple that's been worn and loved for generations.

But when it comes to actually choosing one, a lot of people hit the same wall: where do I even start?

Here's a straightforward breakdown.

Choose by material

Boater hats generally come in three main materials.

Straw — firm, structured, and traditional in character. Holds its shape well and built to last. The most classic choice.

Paper — lightweight and easy to live with. Available across a wide price range and well-suited to everyday use.

Raffia — flexible with a refined, slightly luxurious texture. Works well for resort wear or smarter occasions.

If you're not sure where to start, straw or paper is the most approachable entry point.

Choose by brim width

The brim width has more effect on the overall look than almost anything else.

5–6cm — a clean, modern silhouette. Versatile enough to work from casual to smart. The easier range to pull off for most people.

7cm+ — more presence, more classic summer energy. Better sun coverage too. A stronger look that rewards confidence.

For a first boater hat, the 5–6cm range tends to be the most forgiving.

Choose by size

Always measure your head circumference before buying.

A standard M size typically fits around 57–58cm. If you're at 60cm or above, you'll need to look for brands that offer L sizes or larger — not all of them do.

ReqHatter's boater hat lineup

ReqHatter is a hat brand based in Fukuoka, Japan. Our boater hat collection spans several materials — straw, paper, bao grass, and hana-mugi — each with its own character and texture.

Every model is designed with the proportions and details to sit naturally in modern everyday life.