As someone who practically lives in baseball caps, I decided it was time to step out of my comfort zone and try something a bit different. Being the brand manager for Tilley Hats, my new summer hat had to be from Tilley, but I was uncertain about which style to pick. I wanted something unique yet not too bold. Just days before heading off on my spring holiday, a delivery from Tilley arrived with the new Tilley Sahara T3 and immediately, I was won over by its stylish aesthetic, which blends the modern bucket hat with a traditional safari hat.
Let’s break down the key features of the hat:
- Certified UPF 50+ Sun Protection: Ensures maximum sun protection against UV rays.
- Durable Water-Repellent Finish: Offers protection against light rain and flash showers.
- Made from 100% Cotton: Tilley hats are renowned for their durable duck cotton fabric.
- Ventilation Grommets: Keep your head cool and allow for airflow during high heat.
- Wind Cord: Ensures the hat stays in place during windy conditions.
- Snap-Up Sides: Easily alter the hat's style with convenient snap button closures on the side.
- Buoyant: The T3 Sahara is designed to float if it falls into the water.
- Elastic Sweatband: Ensures a comfortable and secure fit while absorbing sweat in hot and humid conditions.
- Hidden Pocket: Perfect for storing keys, money, or small valuables in the crown of the hat.
It seemed like an ideal moment to test out the capabilities of the new Tilley Sahara T3 in Morocco, the captivating North African kingdom that spans the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert. My journey began along Morocco’s Atlantic coast in Essaouira, a picturesque coastal town in the south known for its vibrant culture, rich history, delectable seafood, and famously robust winds. While Essaouira basks under perpetual sunshine, it earns its nickname as the “Windy City of Africa” owing to the relentless Atlantic gusts, making it a premier destination for kitesurfing and wind enthusiasts worldwide. However, my expedition wasn’t solely geared towards wind resistance; I also anticipated the scorching conditions awaiting me in Marrakesh, a renowned cultural hub just 500km from the Sahara's core, where the heat and sunlight can be unforgivingly intense.
Pros:
- Stability and Comfort: The adjustable wind cord was a lifesaver during my trip! In Essaouira, where the wind averages around 15-20 miles per hour and occasionally reaches 30 miles per hour on the beach, the adjustable wind cord/bungee strap kept my Sahara T3 firmly in place. I would have certainly lost a baseball cap to the Atlantic Ocean! The snap-up sides are another great feature, keeping the Sahara T3 sturdy and preventing the brim from flapping in strong winds. Even with the wind cord tucked away, the Tilley Sahara T3 remained securely on my head during gentler breezes while I wandered through the vibrant medina.
- UV Protection: While on the Atlantic coast with temperatures around 27°C and constant sunshine, and even more so inland in Marrakesh where temperatures soared to 36°C, the Tilley T3 Sahara provided excellent sun protection. I noticed the difference on a day I chose not to wear my T3, resulting in a slightly sunburned nose and neck.
- Easy to Pack: The Tilley T3 Sahara is very lightweight and easily fits into my backpack without taking up much space. It packed down nicely at the top, and although it had a few initial creases, they evened out within about 10 minutes after reshaping.
Cons:
- Limited Breathability in Intense Heat: While the Tilley T3 Sahara boasts ventilation grommets, the sweltering conditions of Marrakesh's desert landscape, coupled with minimal airflow, led to increased perspiration. Opting for a hat from Tilley’s Airflo series, renowned for its enhanced ventilation, might have provided a more comfortable solution in such a climate. Nonetheless, I appreciated the presence of an elastic sweatband, which effectively managed moisture, contributing to a more pleasant experience despite the heat.
- Velcro Closure in Hidden Pocket: While the concept of a hidden pocket with a velcro closure is commendable, I believe a zippered pocket would offer much greater security. It's suitable for storing items like a credit card or key with a properly sized keyring, but for smaller items like a key, I didn't feel entirely confident that it wouldn't accidentally fall out unnoticed. Additionally, it's not ideal for storing coins as they tend to move around and may fall through the gap. While coins are less commonly used in Europe nowadays, they are still prevalent in Morocco for tipping and small purchases, making this aspect less practical for certain regions.
While the T3 Sahara is a new addition to Tilley’s extensive lineup, there are several longstanding classics from Tilley that you may want to consider for your summer headwear needs.
- Tilley T3 Wanderer Hat: Designed with the intrepid explorer in mind, the T3 Wanderer offers similar features to the Sahara but boasts a broader brim and a more traditional safari style. With a wider range of colour options available, it provides versatility to match your personal style.
- Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat: This safari-style hat features a broad brim and incorporates Tilley’s signature AirFlo mesh around the crown, ensuring optimal breathability and airflow, making it an ideal choice for hot weather adventures.
Summary
The Sahara T3 is an outstanding piece of headwear that truly impressed me. Throughout my travels, I found it difficult to pinpoint any significant drawbacks. Its performance in various conditions consistently exceeded my expectations, showcasing its remarkable durability, comfort, and style. The locals in Morocco often commented on my headwear with gentle humour, likening me to Indiana Jones, which added a charming touch to my experience. This hat not only proved to be functional but also became a delightful conversation starter, enhancing my travels with unexpected interactions.
The latest addition from Tilley Endurables, the Sahara T3, features a unisex design that seamlessly blends style and functionality. Priced at a recommended retail price (RRP) of £90, this hat is an investment in both quality and versatility. Available in two classic colours, Stone and Dark Khaki, the Sahara T3 effortlessly complements a wide range of summer outfits and occasions. Whether you are exploring bustling urban landscapes, trekking through arid deserts, or enjoying breezy coastal adventures, this hat is designed to meet your needs.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Tilley T3 Sahara for men and women of all age groups who seek a blend of practical features and stylish aesthetics in their headwear. Its exceptional sun protection, durability, and comfort make it an ideal choice for travellers and adventurers. With its thoughtful design and reliable performance, the Sahara T3 ensures you are well-prepared for both sunshine and wind, making every journey not just bearable but truly enjoyable. Whether you're an intrepid explorer or a casual wanderer, this hat promises to be a reliable and chic companion on all your adventures.
The Sahara T3 is poised to become a core component of the Tilley T3 range, with hopes for an expanded colour selection in future seasons. Whether you're exploring bustling cities, trekking through deserts, or enjoying coastal winds, the Tilley Sahara T3 promises to be a reliable and stylish companion.