A Shantung 'straw' hat is made from high performance paper rolled into a fine yarn and then woven, a process perfected by the Japanese in 610 A.D. This lighter yet very strong " offered a perfect panama alternative and was dubbed the "Shantung Panama." Our finely woven Shantungs are glazed with our proprietary LiteStraw finish to provide a supple feel, water repellency and enhanced shape retention. The Tharp is a classic medium brimmed shape that is available with a seasonal array of band colors.