Originally Posted By: MostlyHarmless
Originally Posted By: Susan

Has anyone ever worn a souwester hat? I've seen them in photos for years, but have never seen one up close or tried them on.


I have. Short story: They work, and are very comfortable for their intended use: Working outside in rain and wind.

For hiking I'd say you're better off with a Goretex anorak with a good hood. When you're hiking you need better circulation than the sou'wester hat can provide.


Use your rain jacket with hood AND with a wide brim hat underneath (I use a Tilley). The brim keeps the hood from clinging to your head, promoting ventilation and extends the protection in front of your face. It provides secondary moisture protection and the hood can be tossed back after the heavier rain stop. Cinch the hood tighter if you have to walk around in gusty winds.

Better than using a baseball cap with your hood because of the additional side ventilation and less feeling of claustrophobia with the hood.