The Benefits of Synthetic Straw

It’s event season and if you’re looking for new summer straws that can hit the mark in keeping you looking sharp and hold up to whatever you may throw at it, a fine choice to consider is a synthetic straw, like a poly braid.

Curious as to just what a poly braid hat is and how it measures up? Let’s go over some of the benefits these straws can give as heavy hitters in the hat world!

What It Is

Poly braid hats are made out of polypropylene, playfully called the “steel of plastics” and was developed first in the 1950s. It’s used in a variety of ways in our day-to-day lives, including clothing and you guessed it – hats!

Like paper braid hats that are singular, long strands of paper straw that are sewn in a spiral to create bodies for hats, poly braids are simply long braids of the polypropylene material instead.

Why Use Poly Braids for Hats?

Stetson Roark - Handmade for Belfry Unisex Hat Cap Stetson Hats in the Belfry

EMIN QUARTZ
CONRAD
ROARK

“Steel of Plastics”

One of the simplest answers to why you should opt for a poly braid is sheer durability.

We often recommend poly braids like the Emin Quartz from our Stetson Collection to gentleman headed to the Triple Crown races where it seems at least one or two can’t happen without a fair dose of unpredictable weather, and they’re going to be traveling.

Poly braid hats are known to retain their shape quite handily so they can withstand being handled and traveled with. They also tend to not absorb moisture and are easily cleaned with a damp cloth or brush if something gets on them. Due to their plastic nature they hold up if you get surprised by a surprise rain shower, but upkeep is very low maintenance in general.

Brilliant Color

Another reason we appreciate poly braids as a material is the fact that they are not only fairly fade resistant, but also can carry beautifully saturated, even color asseen in the buttercream body of the Stetson Conrad.

Sometimes with natural straws like raffia and toquilla straw (also known as Panama straw), the natural fibers accept dye differently throughout the weave, making it hard to bring consistency. They also have to be cared for more particularly, making sure you don’t accidentally leave your hat in an area where it will get exposed to sunlight and cause uneven fading. So, you know, please don’t leave your hat in the car, or hung up by a window; it will appreciate you looking out for it.

While we honestly love the play of such shifts in color from the dyes on natural materials, we admit it isn’t everyone’s bag, and poly braids are able to hold color brilliantly for folks that like bold statements. Our Stetson Roark , available in four color combinations, has been a favorite for several years because of this very fact!

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It’s safe to say synthetic straws like the poly braids from our Stetson Collection are meant to keep you stylish and covered through your summer events, bringing bright, bold colors to your look and little worry about how they’ll hold up as you make your way. If you’re curious about what other straw materials we offer, why not check out our Sagacious Selection of Straws blog?

Also, if you have any questions about poly braids, fit, or more, feel free to contact us at 888-999-HATS (4287). Want to visit us for some in person shopping? We’re happy to help you at 103 Main Street in Annapolis!

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