About Ecuadorian Paredes Hats

A Family Legacy Since 1957

Paredes Hats was born in Cuenca, Ecuador — a city renowned for producing the finest handwoven hats in the world. For nearly 70 years, our family has been dedicated to one craft: creating extraordinary hats that carry the soul of the Andes in every weave.

The Hands Behind Every Hat

Each hat begins in the hands of skilled artisan women from the rural communities surrounding Cuenca. These weavers — many from humble backgrounds — practice an ancestral art passed down through generations, handwoven under UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage traditions. Their work is extraordinary: a single hat can take anywhere from one week to six months to complete, depending on the fineness of the weave.

By partnering with these small, independent weavers, we help sustain their families and preserve a technique that UNESCO has recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

From Our Factory to the World

Our Cuenca factory has maintained the same traditional production methods for nearly seven decades. Today, it also serves as a heritage museum, welcoming visitors to witness the magic behind every hat — from raw toquilla straw to a finished masterpiece.

Now Closer to You

In 2026, as we prepare to celebrate our 70th anniversary, we took a bold step: opening a new company in New Jersey, USA, to better serve our international customers. Same family. Same craft. Now at your doorstep.

Our hats are made using a UNESCO-recognized ancestral technique. Wear yours.