Attention to the Hat that Brings Together the Technology of the Complete Sun Block Umbrella Manufacturer "Sun Barrier 100"! What Is the Performance of the Wind Hat, Which Is Also Wind-Resistant?

"Sun Barrier 100" develops products with "Complete Sun Block." Complete Sun Block means the ability to cut 100% of all light that reaches the ground, including ultraviolet rays, infrared rays, and visible light. As a pioneer in Complete Sun Block items, the company has focused on creating a variety of products, including parasols, hats, and outerwear. Prominent individuals with a strong sense of aesthetics trust their numerous functional and stylish products.

This time, we focus on the "Wind Hat" equipped with both Complete Sun Block and wind resistance. We asked Nami Tsujimoto from the company about the background of its development, the commitment to the product, and the technologies used.

Why Is It Necessary to Cut Ultraviolet Rays, Infrared Rays, & Visible Light?

The Wind Hat from Sun Barrier 100 is a completely sun blocked hat that resists being blown by the wind, featuring a removable hat strap. Since its release in April 2023, it has been the most popular among the company's hats.

The Wind Hat is, of course, equipped with Sun Barrier 100's proud "Complete Sun Block" function. The reason it can cut 100% of ultraviolet rays, infrared rays, and visible light lies in the two layers of "polyurethane film laminate" applied to the inside of the hat. When we asked Tsujimoto about the benefits of cutting 100% of ultraviolet rays, infrared rays, and visible light, he replied as follows:

"Ultraviolet rays can cause sunburn, spots, wrinkles, and skin cancer. Infrared rays, also known as 'heat rays,' can lead to heat stroke. Visible light is light that causes glare, and prolonged exposure can lead to eye fatigue. Therefore, by cutting 100% of ultraviolet rays, infrared rays, and visible light, one can prevent sunburn while feeling cool and reduce eye fatigue even in strong sunlight."

Due to the nature of the fabric being non-breathable, Complete Sun Block hats may potentially cause sweat accumulation. Hence, we made efforts to minimize sweating as much as possible.

In addition to two vertical slits of approximately 5 cm on the surface of the hat, the backside has a pocket-like mesh, allowing for the insertion of small towels or cooling packs. The mesh is made from the highly absorbent and quick-drying material "Field Sensor®."

The "Wind-resistant Complete Sun Block Hat" Was Born from Staff Feedback

Not only is it Complete Sun Block, but what prompted the company to focus on the "wind resistance of hats"? The background to the development of the Wind Hat is explained by Tsujimoto as follows:

"The development of the Wind Hat was triggered by staff feedback. We regularly use our own products and are users of Sun Barrier 100. From these closest users, we received feedback that conventional hats cause stress due to issues such as 'the brim sticking to the face when blown by the wind' and 'the brim flipping up.' We thought about how we could solve these issues and began creating a hat with wind resistance."

The company had previously developed a sun visor called "KAZE Visor" that is resistant to being blown away by the wind, but the development of a wind-resistant hat was their first challenge. It took over five years to develop the Wind Hat.

The KAZE Visor has a structure that allows wind to pass through the gap between the brim and the belt part that presses against the forehead, making it resistant to being blown away. Initially, they considered whether that mechanism could be applied to hats as well, but found it challenging to balance functionality and aesthetics in hat design.

Thus, they thought, "What if we made a shape that maintained the brim's form even without allowing wind to pass through it?" and focused on the core used in the brim. Many hats use a thin core in the brim, but the Wind Hat adopts a "PEF core" that combines thickness and cushioning.

By giving thickness to the brim, it can maintain its shape even when blown by the wind. The core was designed to be neither too hard nor too soft, offering just the right amount of flexibility to ensure functionality.

“Many people likely want to keep the hat in their bag when not wearing it. Portability was one of the essential functions. Additionally, if the brim is too long, it can obstruct visibility, and if it is too short, light will hit the face. We pursued the angle and length of the brim and achieved a well-balanced shape.”

Versatile Design that Matches Any Outfit

While pursuing various functionalities, the company’s style does not compromise on design. "I focused on a design that would not be seen as an exaggerated UV protection hat and would match any outfit," says Tsujimoto.

"Attention to detail is packed into every aspect, such as the quality of the cords and sliders, the stitching method, and the depth of the hat. Furthermore, if it doesn't fit securely on the head, the wind will blow it off, so we offer sizes M and L and have increased the adjustment range to about 7 cm."

To enhance durability, polyester material is used on the surface of the hat, yet it impressively achieves a natural look. Typically, polyester threads can lead to a slick fabric appearance, but the company has unevenly twisted the thickness of the threads to create a cotton-like texture.

By using a fabric that feels warm, the design balances casualness without being overly relaxed and pairs well with elegant outfits. Tsujimoto remarks, "I recommend it for both outdoor and everyday use."

Leveraging Strengths as a Pioneer in the Field

When I asked Tsujimoto about the strengths of Sun Barrier 100's manufacturing, this was his response:

"As a pioneer in products offering Complete Sun Block, we have long-standing achievements and acquired know-how. Since we manufacture our own sunshades, we have a significant advantage in improving quality and creating original products."

The company’s staff, being the closest and most loyal users of their products, daily discover issues while using the products, leading to improvements. Minor changes that general users might not notice are constantly implemented across all products. This is something only possible because the company manufactures its own sunshades.

The Wind Hat is designed with a focus on functionality and aesthetics from the user's perspective. Currently, it is available in four colors, including the new navy shade. I highly encourage you to try it out before the peak of summer hits.