Handmade Eagle Hunter’s Malakhai Hat

The Eagle Hunter’s Malakhai Kazakh Hat is a traditional winter fur hat prominently worn by Kazakh eagle hunters, who are known for their ancient practice of training golden eagles for hunting in Central Asia’s mountainous and steppe regions.

Malakhai Hat Design:

The malakhai is characterized by its high conical or cylindrical crown and multiple flaps:

• A wide rear flap that covers the neck and shoulders for wind protection
• Long side flaps to cover the ears
• A short front flap that functions as a visor
  This multiflap design protects hunters from the severe cold, wind, and snow typical to the harsh climates they endure.

Cultural and Practical Importance:

For eagle hunters (called berkutchi in Kazakh), the malakhai hat is not just functional but also symbolic of their nomadic lifestyle and hunting heritage. The hat’s sturdy construction and fur lining help the hunters withstand long, cold expeditions on horseback while training and hunting with their eagles. It is also seen as a mark of identity and tradition passed down through generations.

Craftsmanship:

These hats are handcrafted with skilled fur craftsmanship and often come in sizes around 56–60 cm (US hat size 7–7½). They are prized as durable, authentic pieces of cultural heritage and are sometimes adorned with additional decorative elements.