Ecuadorian Hat: "El Sombrero de Paja Toquilla " - "Panama" Hat

A Panama hat is a traditional brimmed hat originally made in Ecuador. It received its name from the fact that its point of international sale abroad was Panama.

The hat is made from the plaited leaves of the toquilla straw plant. These plants are boiled, then dried and finally taken to weaving centers.

Straw hats woven in Ecuador, like many other 19th and early 20th century South American goods, were shipped first to the Isthmus of Panama before sailing for their destinations in Asia, the rest of the Americas, and Europe. Hence, Ecuadorian hats became "Panama hats.” When American President Theodore Roosevelt visited the Panama Canal construction, he wore such a hat, which increased its popularity.

Panama hat quality may be determined by counting the number of weaves per square inch. The best Panama hats, which are tightly woven, when turned upside down, should hold water. When rolled up, they should be able to go back to its original shape without a wrinkle.
Source:
http://www.galapagos-islands-tourguide.com/ecuador-art.html