Vintage Style Pith Helmets

The pith helmet, also known as the safari helmet, sun helmet, or topi, is a lightweight cloth covered helmet made of pith material. Pith is a tissue in the stems of plants like sola. This accessory was mainly worn by European travelers and explorers in varying climates of Africa, Southeast Asia, and the tropics. This in part due to its effectiveness in protecting from the damp and humid weather in these regions.

The pith was also worn by Spanish forces during the colonial era of the Spanish East Indies, and were later adopted by other colonial armies from France, Britain, Portugal, Italy, and Imperial Germany. As such it became a symbol of colonial rule.

We are proud of our vintage mens clothing, suitable for movie and TV production, theatrical, living history and performing arts requirements, and are also perfect for vintage weddings. We hope you find what you are looking for, and please contact us if you have any questions!