The wide-brimmed “sombrero” hat is traditionally worn in Mexico.
The question refers most specifically to the sombrero jarano, or sombrero de charro, a traditional Mexican hat associated with charros, the country’s skilled horsemen. Its broad brim helps shade the face and eyes from intense sun, while its tall crown, chin strap, decorative bands, embroidery, and ribbons vary by region and purpose.
The recognizable Mexican sombrero developed over centuries and took its familiar form during the 18th and 19th centuries. It became part of the charro outfit on haciendas in areas including Puebla, Jalisco, the Bajío, and northern Mexico. Today, elaborate versions are especially associated with charrería, Mexico’s traditional equestrian sport and cultural practice.
A common mix-up is treating every broad-brimmed hat as the same item. Mexico has many regional hat styles, and “sombrero” simply means “hat” in Spanish. The stereotypical high-crowned, decorated sombrero is specifically a Mexican cultural symbol, although related broad-brimmed hats are worn elsewhere in Latin America and Spain.