Product Technology

Are your products PFC/PFAS-free? What is DWR?

Durable Water Repellent (DWR) is a textile treatment applied to fabric used for clothing, including headwear. The treatment prevents water from saturating the fabric and instead causes water to bead up and roll off the surface, keeping your hat (and head) dry. There are several different types of DWR coating. The DWR used as a standard for many years by the textile industry was called C8 DWR, which is a long-chain, fluorocarbon-based coating containing per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFCs or PFAS. Although C8 is very hydrophobic and the most effective DWR, its byproducts can be toxic and remain in the environment for many years. They're also bioaccumulative. As an alternative to C8, C6 DWR was developed several years ago. It is a shorter-chain, fluorocarbon-based coating, the byproducts of which break down faster and are less toxic to humans and the environment. More recently, C0 (C Zero) DWR was developed and it is fluorine-free (i.e., PFC/PFAS-free). C0 DWR provides excellent water repellency and durability, and it has the lowest impact on the environment. Wherever possible, we use PFC/PFAS-free DWR to ensure the safety of factory workers, customers, and the environment. Look for the "PFC/PFAS-free DWR" call-out on our hats.

What is Convertible Ventilation™?

Our Convertible Ventilation® flaps are pieces of fabric featured on a variety of our hats that can be flipped up or down. Flip the fabric up to expose breathable, ventilated mesh to keep you cool. Flip the fabric down to provide extra coverage and protection from the elements.

What is Coolcore® technology?

Coolcore® is a patented, chemical-free cooling technology built into the fabric fibers of our hats. It maximizes their wicking ability, quickly evaporating sweat and keeping you cool and comfortable in any condition. Coolcore® rapidly cools and wicks moisture through regulated evaporation. Best of all, it won't wash out over time. Coolcore® technology keeps its cooling properties for the life of the garment.

Is Coolcore® a chemically treated fabric?

No. While other cooling fabrics use chemicals to enhance wicking, transportation, and evaporation, Coolcore® fabrics are chemical-free. Topical chemicals can not only be harmful to your skin, but after only a few washes, the cooling properties of the product are no longer effective. Coolcore® cooling technology is built into a fabric’s fibers, preventing any decline in performance and maintaining cooling properties for the life of the garment.

What is a SmartStrap™?

SmartStrap™ is a chinstrap that keeps kids' hats in place, but it will break away safely if given a good tug.

What is a Clamshell Brim™?

Clamshell Brim™ is a space-saving design that allows the hat to fold up and fit into a pocket.

What is Sunglass Lock™ and how does it work?

Don't shake off and lose a great pair of shades! Sunglass Lock™ allows you to lock your sunglasses in place on many of our hats using patented, integrated sleeves.

What is a Fold-Away Flap?

Fold-away Flaps are earflaps that can be flipped up or pulled down to protect the ears from harsh weather.

What is StretchBack™ Sizing?

StretchBack™ Sizing is a patented technology that fuses traditional snapback sizing and elastic material to maximize comfort.

What is colorfastness?

At Sunday Afternoons, our hat colors cover a spectrum of hues. Depending on the amount of exposure to ultraviolet light, some of the more vibrant, saturated colors can lessen in vibrancy over time due to photodegradation. Rest assured, this will not affect the UPF rating or quality of the hat. Sunday Afternoons guarantees materials and workmanship for life.