Reading this thread has been more fun than reading the news this morning!

Don't suppose a Tyrolean "loden hut" would work? (like a trilby, with a more pointy top!)?

For me, a well-broke in balmoral or tam works for most weather, and as one of these is my 'tractor cab" most of the time, it has a lot to do.
My old one is a bit relaxed now, and soft enough to go wherever I want it. It's often worn 'sideways, so it offers eye protection, and is floppy enough that it covers the tops of mi ears from getting cooked in the sun.
I would say consider wearing one in the NW, as it does seem to work well.

How would 'Traditionalists' feel about the old style tam, with the top as large as the WW1 balmoral??
Such a thing could be dragged about in all directions to keep off sun and rain quite nicely.
Any thoughts?