pith helmets

Safari head protection

Pith helmets are lightweight sun hats made from the dried pith of tropical plants, with a wide brim and domed crown.

Developed for European colonizers in tropical climates, they became iconic symbols of British imperialism and safari expeditions: the explorer adjusted his pith helmet against the afternoon sun.

Now mostly seen in period films or as costume pieces.

Related

sun hats · colonialism · exploration · British Raj · British Empire · colonial era · safari · safari jacket · big game hunter · African expedition · Stanley · Panama hats · Stetsons · safari hats · Victorian era · outdoor gear · sun protection · puttees

Categories
Opposites
climate suitability

pith helmetsfur hats

Headwear made from pelts

ushanka · trapper hats · ski masks · balaclavas · balaclava

colonial/cultural association

pith helmetskeffiyeh

Traditional Arab cotton headscarf

turban · fez · kufi · sombrero · taqiyah

formality and military context

pith helmetsberets

Soft, flat, brimless hats

bearskin hats · tricorn hats

Family

pith, helmet, pithy, pithiness, pithier, pithiest, helmets, helmeted

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G