This is an outdoor hat made of polyester. Since it's made of polyester, it has some water repellency, but it's also absorbent, so it will soak up sweat, and you can wash it thoroughly with tap water if it gets dirty. The sides are mesh, which helps to release heat and vapor. I've only used it once for hiking, and there are no noticeable scratches or stains, so I think it's like new. Thank you.