Review by: Bill Dawes – 2/06/2023
There are many hats available like this now, but the O&E version has always stood out as being particularly good quality. My hat has taken an incredible pounding over the last 3-4 years, for surfing, SUP surfing, general paddleboarding and also a variety of wind sports such as foiling, windsurfing etc. The brim is stiff enough that it doesn’t flap in a bit of breeze, or droop when it’s wet. Quality wise I can’t fault it, but what I really like is how comfortable the chin strap is, which is what makes or breaks a hat like this if you’re going to use it in surf. The neck flap is also super important when on the water, but easily tucked away or removed when you don’t want to look like you’ve just walked in from the desert.
If you’re using it in hot weather I’d recommend the lighter-colored version. A really awesome piece of paddleboarding headwear.