Sou’wester

A waterproof hat with a broad brim shaped to protect the face and neck from rain and spray.

The rear brim is longer so that water runs clear of the collar, while the front and side brim gives protection without obstructing vision excessively. Traditional versions were made from oiled fabric; modern examples commonly use coated synthetic material and a chin strap.

The name is associated with the wet, strong south-westerly weather experienced around parts of the North Atlantic. The hat forms part of weather protection but provides neither thermal insulation nor flotation unless specifically designed to do so.