Don’t Just Hide It, Back Flap Hat It!

The “It” I am referring to are your ears and back of your neck.  You know, the parts that we often forget to protect under the sun?  Hats come in different shapes and sizes.  One particular hat that I would like to talk about is what I refer to as Back Flap Hats or Flap Hats. So what is a Black Flap Hat?   Back Flap Hats are basically a hat that has a skirt or flap to cover the back of the neck and the ears for extra protection from the UV rays of the sun during extreme conditions.

Did you know that Back Flap Hats can be traced as far back as the mid 1800’s?  This Back Flap Hats are also known by another name or style called the French Foreign Legion Hat.  Troops dated back in 1840 had the option to purchase a “Havelock”, which is the flap, to be attached to their French Foreign Legion Hat to protect their necks from the sun.  This style is also seen in classic movies but unlike the regular Back Flap Hats seen today, this particular style usually has a round top similar to the hat Charles de Gaulle usually wore in his photos just add the split flap in the back.  Don’t know who Charles de Gaulle is? Well then here’s another person/character for you to imagine, it’s none other than Elmer Fudd.  Can you see it now?  I thought you might!

There are many varieties and styles of Back Flap Hats to fit your needs.  Each style has different features such as adjustable sizes and removable flaps.  Some have a long bill while others have a wide brim and we also carry Back Flap Hats that float.  Another type is the light weight Boonie style hats with flaps.   Boonie Hats are known to be worn more so in the militaries and is similar to the Bucket Hat but with a wide and stiffer brim and is also known as the “bush hats”.  

Some hats have a breathable sweatband that wicks away moisture from your brow.   There are hats with pockets to hide the flap in when you no longer need the flap.  For fishermen or people who work in high places, there are Back Flap Hats with chin cords and some have a string with a clip.  The clip, once attached to your shirt or collar, will prevent you from losing your hat when the wind blows.  When looking to purchase a Back Flap Hat find one that is made of great fabric, comfortable, and is easy to pack with your gear or that you can easily stash in a pocket or tackle box.  Summer is here, get that extra protection from the sun and find that perfect hat for you!