Six weeks, sixty pairs of hands, a hundred and sixty-two steps, and two hundred handlings in the manufacturing process. This is how your Akubra hat is made. Built for exploration, rugged adventure and the outback spirit, these handcrafted masterpieces are Australian icons.
For more than a century, these incredible hats have been more than just a garment; they’re pieces of history that speak of resilience, craftsmanship and national pride. If you’re an explorer, a rural worker, a fashionista or someone who values quality and you don’t own at least one, it’s time you found your trusted adventure companion.
The Rich History Behind the Brand
Founded in Tasmania in 1876, Akubra grew from a small family company to a legendary Australian brand. “Akubra” is the Aboriginal word for “head covering,” which these remarkable hats undoubtedly are. What started as a practical solution for protection against Australia’s harsh climate evolved into a world-renowned symbol of Australian durability and style.
Why Are Akubra Hats Worth It?
Quality and Durability Second to None
When you buy Akubra hats, you buy a piece of the adventurers’ spirit that lives on. These are not your average hats that fall apart after a season. They are constructed from top-grade rabbit fur felt, using techniques honed over generations. Each hat is crafted to withstand tough conditions, from scorching outback sun to unexpected rain showers. Attention to quality means every hat can literally endure decades with proper care.
Versatility for Any Occasion
Think these hats are reserved for stockmen and explorers only? Think twice. Akubra Australia hats can be found in a vast array of styles for anything from weekend picnics or city streets to black-tie events or country music festivals. The classic Fedora can dress up business casual, while the Bushman’s is the hat of choice for those who embrace the great outdoors. There is a style to fit virtually every wardrobe and lifestyle.
Timeless Style and Elegance
Whether you opt for the iconic Cattleman or the stylish Snowy River, you can rest assured that these classic looks never go out of fashion. They are striking accessories that can add a touch of rebellious spirit to formal attire or infuse refinement into a casual outfit.
Protection from the Elements
As ‘head coverings’, these hats not only perform their primary function but excel at it. The wide brim shields your face and neck from the harsh sun, protecting you from the UV rays and reducing the risk of sunburns. The high-quality felt is water-resistant and offers protection from the rain and sudden downpours.
Selecting the Perfect Akubra
Understand Your Hat Styles
Akubra has a range of styles to suit all tastes and needs:
- The Cattleman: A classic wide-brimmed hat suitable for sun protection;
- The Fedora: A sleeker, more city-bound, sophisticated style suited to city life;
- The Snowy River: A classic bush hat with solid outdoor credentials;
- The Traveller: A top choice for globetrotters with a crushable felt design;
- The Riverina: A timeless essential for those who respect the land and its legacy;
- The Pastoralist: A wider-brimmed option for maximum sun protection;
- The Balmoral: A straw hat that will keep you cool even on the hottest days.
Consider Your Lifestyle
When you buy Akubra hats, keep in mind:
- Your planned use (outdoor work, fashion, sun protection),
- Your head shape and size,
- The climate you’ll be wearing it in, and
- Your own fashion tastes.
Find Your Perfect Fit
Sizing is important when it comes to hats. As opposed to other brands that supply small, medium and large sizes, Akubra gives specific measurements. Tip: Measure your head circumference and refer to the size chart. A well-fitting hat will be snug but not constricting, with roughly a finger’s width of space between the hat and your head.
Care and Maintenance: Keeping Your Hat in Top Shape
Cleaning and Storage
- Brush your hat regularly with a soft-bristled brush.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Use a hat brush or lint roller to dust and brush off dirt.
- Don’t expose the hat to too much water.
Professional Restoration
There is professional cleaning and reshaping at most retailers. For specially treasured or vintage hats, this restoration process can keep them in their original shape and appearance.
The Cultural Significance
Akubras are more than fashion – they’re a piece of Australian heritage. They’ve been on the heads of farmers, soldiers, film stars, country musicians and everyone in between. From rural workers to Prime Ministers, an Akubra is a connection to the earth, a nod to craftsmanship and a love of enduring style.
Beyond Hats: Leather Accessories
While most famous for its hats, the brand also produces fine leather belts that complement the headwear. These stylish accessories are equally committed to the art of the craft, made with superior leather that improves with age. They are both practical and stylish just like their renowned hats.
Takeaway: A Purchase of Style and Heritage
An Akubra is not just another accessory – it’s an investment in heritage, quality and personal style. Whether you’re a local or an overseas visitor who enjoys dressing in style, these hats offer something unique: a mix of functionality, durability and timeless style that won’t ever be outdated.