Alright, so given that KAVU’s founder, Barry Barr, invented the company’s famous strapcap because he was tired of wearing trucker caps, it might be a bit of a surprise to discover that they make those too. However, what’s not at all surprising is that these aren’t your average trucker lids. The clue, of course, being in the name. The Above Standard is a six-panel structured design with a cotton canvas front & polyester mesh back. Inside the seams are taped for extra durability, and there’s a super-absorbent sweatband so you won’t get that attractive salty tide mark across the peak. Adjustment is via the classic snapback closure, and the bill’s got just the right amount of curve to it
Now here’s an origin story for you. Back in the early nineties, fishing boat skipper Barry Barr was fed up with wearing cheap trucker caps that got snatched off his head in storms, never to be seen again. He decided to make a super-durable cap that wouldn’t blow off whatever the weather, and he did it by stitching the webbing material from a Teva sandal all the way around the crown. Turned out his ‘Strapcap’ was a hit, and KAVU was born.
From humble beginnings flogging Strapcaps out of the boot of his car in Seattle, Barry’s since expanded to produce a whole array of durable outdoor kit with a laid-back, van-lifer vibe. The KAVU range takes in everything from sling bags to swim shorts, and while they’re serious about producing great gear that’s made to last, they’re also not afraid to have a laugh. Their prints are bold, playful, and in some cases so loud that they’ll take some considerable chutzpah to carry off – but that’s what makes them so much fun.
-Laura, Verified Buyer
