The Šajkača and the (braon) šubara are traditional hats from Serbia and Montenegro.
The Šajkača originated in the 18th century and was originally worn by the Serbian river fleet as a military headgear (uniform) in the service of the Habsburg Empire (known as the šajkaši) around the Danube and Sava Rivers. These men conducted small-scale raids against the Ottomans, thus allowing Serb refugees from the Ottoman Empire to safely flee to the Habsburg Empire. The refugees copied the design of the hat and spread it widely within the Serbian community.
The distinctive hat is recognisable by its top part which looks like the letter V or like the bottom of a boat (viewed from above). It gained wide popularity in the early 20th century as it became an official part of the Serbian military uniform in 19th century. It was initially worn only by soldiers (the officers wore contemporary french-style kepis and later peaked caps), but after 1903 it became part of the standard officer's uniform as well (the officers' ones were modified with a peak). It would continue to be used by the Royal Yugoslav Army.
During World War II, it was worn by Serbian members of the Yugoslav Partisans until it was replaced by "Titovka" cap.
Today the Šajkača is commonly seen in rural villages across Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro, often worn by elderly men.
The (braon) šubara is the traditional Serbian and Montenegrin winter hat. At South Pacific Berets, we stock the šubara in brown (braon) artificial fur, a huge hat that can easily fit over a Šajkača. One size (if too large, one folds the rim outwards to make it fit snug and comfortable). You can't find much better protection from the winter cold than from this hat!
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