Hello,

My name is Walt Pieper, and I am the founder and President of The Panador Hat Company™. Thanks for checking out this website dedicated to our passion: the legendary Panama hat, hand-woven in Ecuador. We import high quality Panama hats from weavers and finishers in Cuenca. We're not only proud to offer timeless, specially-crafted Panama hats, we're proud of what we're doing in Ecuador. Our company was formed to help improve Ecuador’s economy and provide new markets for Ecuadorian products.

Exceptional Quality

If you are unfamiliar with Cuenca, it is a beautiful mountain city located several hundred kilometers from the Pacific coast.

This region, often called the art capital of Ecuador, is known for its fine artisans and exceptional handcrafters. My wife and I love traveling to Cuenca to visit friends and commission artwork particularly meaningful to us. Our home is a gallery showcasing the diverse talent of Cuenca, from ceramic dishes to paintings, blankets to sculptures. And our hand-woven Panama hats are no exception. Spend a few minutes browsing the informational pages on our site, and you'll learn how much skill goes into the completion of just one Panama hat. The talent of Cuencan weavers is incredible, and it won't take long for you to gain an appreciation for why the Panama hat is known as the most desirable summer hat in the world.

Economic Development

Cuenca has a rich cultural heritage. However, it is not a wealthy corner of the world. That's why we have committed to help foster economic development in this region.

I have been working with the people in Ecuador for over 10 years and over this time have developed many warm friendships and business relationships.

In 2008, I was approached by Ecuador's trade authorities to more fully develop the markets for Cuenca's finest products, especially the Panama hat.

I have made many personal appearances to support this wonderful country and its people.

In fact, I am working with both the United Nations and the United States Agency for International Development on their behalf.

The Panador Hat Company

The Panador Hat Company™ is the first project under this economic partnership.

It's easy for my partners and me to stand behind this effort. We believe in the people, and we believe in the beauty and quality of their products.

I have made a personal commitment to bring the highest quality products from Ecuador, particularly hand-woven Panama hats, to the United States and throughout the world. We will always offer you exceptional hats — for an exceptional value.

If you have any questions about our products or our service, please contact me or any member of The Panador Hat Company™ staff. We are eager to help you!

All The Best,

Walt Pieper
President, Panador Hat Company