Sou'wester

[nq:1]Why is the sou'wester, as in a waterproof hat, so called? My guess is that the name refers to the prevailing wind direction in the UK area, but I can't quite make the leap from wind to hat.[/nq]
It's that wind that brings rain most often.
Best regards
Steffen, being forced to come by car instead of bike today

[nq:1]Why is the sou'wester, as in a waterproof hat, so called? Can anyone help?[/nq]
The offers "southwester" as a precursor. Apparently it is as common in German and Dutch as it is in English. Here are some dated quotations, as well.
SOUTHWESTER:
2. a. A large oilskin or waterproof hat or cap worn by seamen to protectthe head and neck during rough or wet weather.
So Du. zuidwest

[nq:2]Why is the sou'wester, as in a waterproof hat, so ... I can't quite make the leap from wind to hat.[/nq]
[nq:1]It's that wind that brings rain most often.[/nq]
Really? That's surprising to me, but then I live in NE England and we're sheltered in that direction. Thanks.

John H
Yorkshire, England

[nq:2]Why is the sou'wester, as in a waterproof hat, so called? Can anyone help?[/nq]
[nq:1]The offers "southwester" as a precursor. Apparently it is as common in German and Dutch as it is in ... smock frock..and a south~wester cap. 1840 R. H. DANA Bef. Mast x, We had on oil~cloth suits and southwester caps.[/nq]
In Australia there used to be a non-waterproof version, called "a fisher-'at

[nq:1]The offers "southwester" as a precursor. Apparently it is as common in German and Dutch as it is in English.[/nq]
Same thing in Swedish: "sydväst".
CV