African Hats also known as African Kufis, Kufi meaning a hat or cap, is believed to have originated from the African continent. Most likely from the Swahili lands of Kenya or Tanzania. Kufi, also called kofia, is likely a version of the Arabic word Kufiyya. Thus, the kufi hat is very common among Muslims and Christians alike throughout many parts of the African continent.
There is vast variety of kufi hat designs and styles in Africa. At the TheKufi™ we have a growing selection that we manufacture and procure for our existing and prospective customers. To give you an idea, we’ll take a look at five of our most popular African Hats, such as the following:
The first in our African Hats collection is this tall fez hat, common in Northern African countries. It can be seen worn alone or with a green turban. They are made from pure wool felt. These tall fez kufi hats come in many colors and go well with a hooded Djellaba (thowb). Some people like to add a tassel to this fez for added character, royalty and elegance. At TheKufi™ we are gradually adding to our selection of colors and sizes but the most common are the red, black and white colors. The perforation on the top allows for air circulation and coolness.
The Moroccan fez is popular in almost all Muslim countries. There are several versions available at TheKufi™. We offer the traditional wool felt and the faux felt. This kufi is popular because it goes well a turban and holds its form so that you can remove it from your head with the Turban still attached. This type of rigid Moroccan-style fez kufi comes with the stem on top or without.
There are many types of nylon open-weave kufi caps. These caps, as they are also known are low-priced and versatile. Nylon kufi caps are worn by people from all walks of life. These kufis are perfect for everyday use and to wear as prayer caps. They fit in your pocket and can be put in the washing machine.
The equivalent of this Kufi, also known as an Omani-style hat, in Africa (Zanzibar & Uganda) would be the Kofi or Bargashia. This style of tall embroidered kufi is popular all over Northern and Eastern Africa. There is a tendency, in some countries, to indent one side or shape the top of the kufi to give it more character. As African attire and national costumes are very colorful, choosing a matching kufi is a must. Tall embroidered African Hats are perfect for special occasions, ceremonies and festivals.
This kufi hat is popular in West Africa. It is often worn with the Gran Bubu outfits of Gambia and Senegal. This is made from felt with perforations on top and sides for air circulation. These concaved oval fez kufi hats can also be embellished with embroidery and sequins. Dignitaries and common-folk love this style of kufi. The current model we carry is made from 100% fine Australian wool felt.
These five popular African Hats are only a few of the many varieties we offer. Choosing the best kufi hat or cap to go with your attire is easy when shopping at TheKufi™ shop on MuslimMall.com. We specialize in hard-to-find sizes and colors as well. We hope this African Hats collection helps you choose your favourite with confidence.