A Panama hat is a traditional brimmed hat that is made from the fine weaved leaves of the panama-hat palm, also known as jipijapa or toquilla - Carludovica palmata. Despite the name, genuine Panama hats are made in Ecuador, not in Panama. The name comes from they came into prominence during the construction of the Panama Canal and when Teddy Roosevelt visited the Canal, he wore one such a hat, increaseing its popularity. The Ecuadorian town of Cuenca is the main producer; however, the town of Montecristi & Otavalo also have the reputation of producing the finest quality hats