Occasionally, our assumptions need to get challenged a bit.

Alpine, Arizona is situated four hours from the Phoenix area, but it's 8,000 feet higher in elevation. It's a easy hop, skip and a jump away from the steamy desert, and a welcome relief when the temps get too high.

It's also a good lesson in remembering that things aren't always as they seem from the outside, and that the best way to get to know something is to dive right in and absorb all of its complexities and contradictions.

None of us are all one thing, really, and whether you consider yourself a "hat person" already or not, our Alpine Western Palm is a great easy-wearing brim to keep you company on your next road less traveled.