The Rollable Panama: Pack, Roll, Go

The Panama hat has long been a companion to travellers, explorers and adventurers, yet its name tells only half the story. Despite its rather convincing title, the Panama begins life in Ecuador, where the traditional art of weaving the toquilla straw hat has been passed from one generation to the next and is now recognised by UNESCO.

So how did an Ecuadorian original acquire the name of its neighbour? Panama was an important crossroads for travellers, and these distinctive straw hats became a familiar sight on those passing through. The association stuck, but it was Theodore Roosevelt who helped carry the Panama onto the world stage. During his 1906 visit to inspect construction of the Panama Canal, the American president was photographed in one, helping turn an already well-travelled hat into an international icon.

Swaine’s Rollable Panama was made for the well-travelled. When every inch of a suitcase is spoken for, it rolls neatly away amongst your belongings, ready to emerge when sunnier skies call. Practicality need not come at the expense of elegance, and a little room can always be found for good style.

After all, no gentleman should have to leave his hat behind.