Bucket Hats Vs Boonie Hats - What's The Difference?

Bucket Hats Vs Boonie Hats - What's The Difference?

Considering adding a stylish and functional hat to your wardrobe but unsure whether to go for a bucket hat or a boonie hat? This article helps you discern the differences between these two popular choices.

What exactly is a bucket hat and a boonie hat? If you're finding it hard to distinguish, you're not alone. A bucket hat features a downward-sloping brim resembling a bucket. It’s often called a fisherman's hat. On the other hand, a boonie hat is a wide-brim hat typically used by the military. Its design is quite similar to a bucket hat but with a stiffer brim. Typically, there are loops around the crown of the hat meant for additional camouflage using leaves or other items. Both types sometimes come with a chin strap for added stability, particularly in windy conditions. Additionally, the hat's crown might have eyelets or small mesh panels for ventilation.

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We offer a variety of bucket and boonie hats in different colors and materials like cotton, moisture-wicking fabrics, and polyester. These hats are popular for activities such as fishing, hunting, and camping and offer excellent sun protection.

The History of the Bucket Hat

The fashion industry is known for its subjectivity, which is why many items become controversial topics of debate. Think of Crocs, Ugg boots, fanny packs, and chunky "dad" sneakers. Unlike these divisive fashion items, bucket hats have always struggled to make a consistent comeback despite their practical beginnings.

Originally crafted for function rather than fashion, the bucket hat emerged in the early 1900s. Irish farmers and fishermen wore them for rain protection thanks to their wide, downward-sloping brims and the convenience of being foldable. During the 1940s and the Vietnam War, olive drab cotton versions became standard military issue to shield soldiers' necks from the sun.

As the 1960s Mod movement took hold, the bucket hat transitioned from a functional item to a fashionable accessory. Designers began using materials like felt or stiff fabrics that captured the era’s spirit. This trend continued, and the 1980s saw the hip-hop community popularize bucket hats even further. Artists like Big Bank Hank, Run-DMC, LL Cool J, and Jay-Z made it a notable part of their identity.

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Despite its presence in hip-hop culture, bucket hats often earned a less glamorous reputation, associated with nerdy characters like Bob Denver's Gilligan on "Gilligan's Island" and Wilson on "Home Improvement." In the 2000s, Miuccia Prada and Rihanna's BFF Melissa Forde tried to revitalize the trend with fresh designs and collections dedicated to bucket hats.

In recent seasons, however, the attitude toward bucket hats has begun to change. Designers such as Matthew Adams Dolan and Michael Kors have embraced the hat, presenting various innovative styles in their Spring/Summer collections. Karl Lagerfeld, for instance, brought the bucket hat back to its functional roots with rain-proof designs at Chanel.

The men's fashion scene hasn't been left out either. Designers like those at Louis Vuitton and Lanvin included bucket hats in their collections. Thanks to '90s nostalgia and growing interest in utilitarian fashion, bucket hats are finally having their moment in the spotlight.

Contact us to discuss your requirements for a full mesh cap. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.