Founder of iconic Tilley Hat dies at 87

Founder of Tilley Endurables Alex Tilley

A Canadian outerwear fashion icon has died.

Alex Tilley, the inventor of the iconic Tilley Hat, died on Oct. 28 at age 87 in Muskoka.

His inspiration for the Tilley Hat started as an idea to create the perfect sailing hat. There wasn’t a hat that was both durable and functional and for use on the water, that already exited.

Usually in neutral colours, the Tilley Hat has a wide brim for ultimate sun protection for whatever outdoor adventure.

He went on to found the company Tilley Endurables in 1980, which sold not only hats but clothing like shorts and pants for sailing and travelling.

Some of the known key features of his invention are the floatability in case of falling in the water, chin cord to prevent from blowing off, mesh material for ventilation, a secret pocket, and sun protection.

Along with his passion for sailing and travelling was his love of photography. According to his daughter Karen Tilley, when he went travelling in the 1970s, he always brought his motion film camera, polaroid, and a camera for a slide projector.

In an interview with CTV’s KC Colby in 2015, Tilley sold his company 10 years ago as he wanted to spend more time with his wife.

• Tilley hat maker selling company after 35 years

A statement from the Tilley Facebook page reads, “Alex believed that quality, integrity, and a love for adventure should be stitched into everything we create. His values of craftsmanship, curiosity, and care for people and planet remain the foundation of who we are today.”

“He showed us what it means to build something enduring, something made to last, something proudly Canadian. His curiosity and commitment to doing things with purpose continue to guide us every day.”

The Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre says in a post on Facebook, “Alex was a keen explorer, traveller and avid supporter of so many causes including the steamships.”

Tilley leaves behind his wife, daughters, stepchildren, and grandchildren.