Most people don’t know their hat size. Size charts with small, medium, large, centimeters, and inches can be very confusing.
If the size is incorrect, the hat may feel too tight or too loose and often needs to be returned. Measuring the head at home is simple. A soft measuring tape, or even a piece of string and a ruler, is enough.
This guide explains simple steps to measure your head at home and determine the correct hat size.
Why Measuring Your Hat Size Matters
The right hat size isn’t just about numbers. It affects your comfort, confidence, and how your hat looks on you. If it’s too tight, it causes headaches. Too loose, and it keeps slipping off. The correct fit also keeps your hat in shape and helps it last longer.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make
Beginners often make common mistakes that lead to the wrong hat size.
- Guessing the Size: Many people pick small, medium, or large without measuring. The fit often ends up wrong.
- Measuring in the Wrong Place: Every head shape is different. Measure around the widest part of your head—just above your eyebrows, over the ears, and around the back.
- Using the Wrong Tool: A hard ruler doesn’t bend to your head’s shape. Use a soft tape or string instead.
- Ignoring Hairstyle: Hair can slightly affect the size. Decide if you’re measuring with your usual hairstyle or without it.
- Confusing Size Charts: Some brands use centimeters, others inches. Wrong conversions lead to wrong fits.
Pay attention to these basics, and measuring your hat size becomes easy. You’ll never have to deal with a bad fit again.
How to Measure Your Head for the Right Hat Size (Step-by-Step)
Measuring your head before buying a hat is important for comfort and fit. Use these simple methods to get it right. Here’s a simple visual guide that shows how professionals measure head size and find the right hat fit.
This video by Goorin Bros. clearly demonstrates how to wrap the tape, check the fit, and read your size—all at home.
The technique shown in this video works for most hat styles and brands. For best results, double-check your own measurement using the steps shared below.
Method 1: Using a Soft Measuring Tape
Using a soft measuring tape is the easiest and most accurate way to find your hat size at home. It’s simple, quick, and requires no special tools.
What You Need
- A soft measuring tape (like the ones used in sewing).
- A mirror (optional, to check tape placement).
Before You Start:
Remove any hairstyles, ponytails, or bulky accessories that might affect the measurement. Keep your hair the way you normally wear it when you wear a hat. This helps you get the most accurate measurement.
1. Position the Tape
Place the tape around the widest part of your head. This is usually just above your eyebrows, passing over the ears, and around the back of your head. Make sure the tape follows the natural shape of your head.
2. Check the Fit and Read the Measurement
Keep the tape snug but not tight. It should sit evenly around your head—above the eyebrows, over the ears, and around the back. Make sure it follows your head’s shape without pressing too hard.
You should be able to slip a finger under the tape comfortably. Once it feels right, note the number where the tape meets itself in centimeters or inches.
3. Double-Check
Measure two or three times to make sure the reading is consistent. Minor differences of a few millimeters are normal, but consistency ensures accuracy.
4. Compare with Size Chart
Match your measurement with the hat brand’s size chart. If your measurement falls between two sizes, choosing the larger one usually gives a better fit.
Tips for Accuracy
- Measure with your hair as you normally wear it under a hat.
- Don’t pull the tape too tight; a snug fit is enough.
- Use a mirror or ask someone to help you if you find it tricky to position the tape correctly.
This method is reliable and works for almost all hat types. Using a soft measuring tape removes guesswork and ensures the hat you choose will feel comfortable and stay in place.
Method 2: Using a String or Ribbon
If a soft measuring tape is not available, a piece of string or a ribbon can be used to measure your head accurately. This method works well and gives reliable results.
What You Need
- A string or ribbon that can go all the way around your head.
- A ruler to measure the length of the string or ribbon after wrapping.
- A mirror (optional, to check placement).
1. Wrap the String or Ribbon Around Your Head
Gently place it around the widest part of your head—just above your eyebrows, over your ears, and around the back. Make sure it follows the natural shape of your head without pulling tight.
2. Mark the Meeting Point
Hold the point where the string or ribbon overlaps. Mark it with a pen, or simply pinch it with your fingers. Be careful not to stretch the string.
3. Measure the Length
Lay the string or ribbon flat and use a ruler to measure from the starting end to the marked point. Note the number in centimeters or inches—this is your head circumference.
4. Double-Check the Measurement
Repeat the process once or twice to ensure accuracy. Small differences of a few millimeters are normal.
5. Compare with a Size Chart
Match your measurement to the hat brand’s size chart. If your measurement falls between two sizes, choosing the larger size usually gives a more comfortable fit.
Method 3: Using a Custom Hat Sizing Tool
Some brands or stores provide custom hat sizing tools that make measuring your head very simple and accurate. These tools are designed to give you your correct hat size without guesswork quickly.
What You Need
- A custom hat sizing tool (often a flexible band or adjustable ring provided by the hat brand).
- A mirror to check the placement (Optional).
1. Adjust the Tool Around Your Head
Place the sizing tool around the widest part of your head—just above the eyebrows, over the ears, and around the back. Most tools have markers or adjustable sliders to help you fit them snugly.
2. Ensure a Snug Fit
The tool should sit comfortably, touching your head without pressing too hard. This ensures the measurement reflects how the hat will fit in real life.
3. Read Your Size
Most custom tools have scales or markings that directly indicate your hat size. Some even provide the equivalent in S, M, L, or centimeters/inches.
4. Double-Check if Needed
Move the tool slightly and make sure it still gives the same reading. Accuracy matters, especially for fitted hats.
Tips for Accuracy
- Wear your hair as you normally do under a hat.
- Please don’t force the tool too tightly or leave it loose.
- If unsure, ask store staff or check the brand’s instructions for the sizing tool.
Hat Size Charts & Conversion Tips
Hat sizes vary across brands and countries, which can make online shopping confusing. Some use centimeters, some inches, and others use letters like S, M, L. Because of this, it’s easy to get confused when buying online.
Inches and Centimeters
- Most European and Asian brands use centimeters.
- US and some UK brands often use inches.
To convert, remember: 1 inch = 2.54 cm.
Letter Sizes (S, M, L)
- Small (S) = usually 55-56 cm / 21.5-22 inches
- Medium (M) = usually 57-58 cm / 22.5-23 inches
- Large (L) – usually 59-60 cm / 23.5-24 inches
- Extra Large (XL) = usually 61-62 cm / 24-24.5 inches
Note: Sizes vary slightly by brand, so always check their chart.
In-Between Sizes
If your measurement falls between two sizes, it’s usually better to pick the larger size for comfort. For fitted hats, sometimes brands have half sizes (e.g., 57.5 cm)—these give the most accurate fit.
Quick Fit Test
After choosing the right hat size, checking the fit is just as important. These quick tests will instantly tell you whether your hat is a perfect fit or not.
1. Snug but not tight
The true fit of a hat is “snug,” which means it should feel secure without putting pressure on your head. If the hat is so tight that it leaves red marks on your forehead or causes a headache, the size is too small. If it feels very loose and doesn’t grip your head, the size is too large.
2. Movement test
Tilt your head slightly or nod up and down and side to side. If the hat stays stable and does not slip, the fit is correct. If it slips, the size is too large, and if it squeezes while moving, the size is too small.
3. Finger Space Test
There should be just enough room to fit one finger comfortably between your forehead and the hat. This is a practical trick used by both milliners and hat sellers. It ensures the hat is neither too tight nor too loose.
How to Fix a Hat That Doesn’t Fit
Sometimes, even after choosing the right size, a hat can feel a little loose or tight. This is normal, and there is a simple solution. Most hat materials are slightly flexible, so it is possible to adjust the fit.
Adjust a Loose Hat
If the hat feels loose, you can make it snug by adding a bit of sizing tape or foam inside the lining.
Leather sweatbands naturally shrink over time, but if you want, you can slightly moisten them and let them dry while maintaining their shape. Another quick trick is to wear a thin bandana underneath, which will make the hat feel more secure.
Stretch a Tight Hat
If the hat is too tight, the safest way to fix it is by using a hat stretcher. A wooden stretcher gradually expands the hat without damaging the material.
Another old and effective method is steam. Gently steam the hat, then try it on, allowing it to relax naturally. However, for expensive or high-quality hats, professional stretching is the best option.
Just remember that forcing the hat to stretch or using too much heat can damage its shape. Adjust it slowly and patiently, step by step, so the hat maintains its shape and style.
Types of Hats and How They Affect Fit
Every hat fits differently, which is why one hat can feel comfortable while another of the same size may feel too loose or too tight.
Adjustable Hats (Caps, Snapbacks)
These hats have straps, buckles, or Velcro at the back that let you adjust the size. That’s why even if your measurement isn’t exact, the hat can still fit. This makes them the most forgiving option for beginners.
Fitted Hats (Baseball Fitted Caps)
Fitted hats are made for a specific head size and do not have any adjustable straps. Because of this, getting an accurate measurement is very important. A fitted hat should feel snug enough to stay in place, but it should never be tight or uncomfortable.
Structured Hats (Fedoras, Panama, Cowboy Hats)
These hats keep their shape and do not have any adjustment options. If the size is even slightly small, the hat will feel tight. If it’s too big, it will slip. That’s why getting an accurate measurement is very important for them.
Stretchable Hats (Beanies, Knit Hats)
These hats are made from stretchable fabric, so they usually come in “one size fits most.” However, if your head size is unusually small or large, the fit may feel different. With these hats, you don’t need to worry much about measurement.
Conclusion
The right hat size and fit are important for comfort, style, and confidence. By measuring your head, checking the size chart, and doing quick fit tests, you can ensure your hat fits perfectly.
Following these steps makes shopping stress-free and keeps your hat comfortable at all times. Once you’ve found the right size, try making it part of your daily style. If you’re not sure how, check out our simple guide on the right way to wear your hat with confidence.
FAQs About Hat Sizing
Should I measure with hair down or styled?
Hairstyle can affect the measurement. Include your usual hairstyle if it’s voluminous. For flat hairstyles, measure directly on the scalp.
I don’t have a measuring tape. Can I guess my size?
It’s better not to guess. You can use a string or ribbon, then measure it against a ruler. This gives an accurate result without a tape.
Can one size fit all? What does “One Size” mean?
“One Size” hats usually have adjustable bands or elastic. They fit a range of head sizes but may not be perfect for everyone. For a precise fit, it’s always better to measure.
Do hats shrink or stretch over time?
Yes, some materials like leather, wool, or cotton can slightly shrink or stretch. Structured hats generally keep their shape longer. Minor adjustments over time are normal.
How many times should I measure my head for an accurate hat size?
Measure your head 2-3 times to get a consistent result. Always measure at the same spot (just above the ears and eyebrows) and make sure the tape or string is snug but not tight. If the measurements match or are very close, that’s your true head size.
