Finding the right hat size matters more than most people realize. A cap that's too tight gives you a headache after an hour, and one that's too loose slides down your forehead every time you move.
Getting the right hat does require knowing exactly where to measure and how to translate that number into the sizing charts you'll see when shopping. A proper measurement takes less than two minutes and saves you from ordering the wrong size or dealing with an uncomfortable fit.
This guide walks you through the exact steps to measure your head correctly. You'll learn what tools you need, where to position the measuring tape, and how to interpret your results. We'll also cover common sizing standards and what to do if you fall between sizes.
How To Measure Your Head for Hat Size
Getting an accurate hat size starts with measuring your head correctly. The process takes about two minutes and requires just a flexible measuring tape.
You need a soft fabric measuring tape like the kind used for sewing. These work better than stiff rulers because they follow the natural curve of your head. You can find one at any craft store for a few dollars. If you don't have a measuring tape, use a piece of string or ribbon and then measure it against a ruler.
Step-by-Step to Get Your Measurement
- Start by wrapping the tape around your head at the widest point. This spot sits about half an inch (1.25 cm) above your eyebrows for most people.
- Place the measuring tape around your head at this location. The tape should rest comfortably against your head without pulling or squeezing.
- Make sure the tape sits above your ears. It needs to cross the back of your head where it curves out the most.
- Hold the tape steady with one hand while you read the measurement with the other. Look at where the tape meets itself and write down this number in inches.
- Repeat this measurement once to ensure accuracy.
Write down your final measurement and keep it somewhere you can reference when shopping for hats. This number is your head circumference. Once you know your perfect hat size, learn how to make your custom hats stand out with embroidery designs that turn heads.
The "One Size Fits Most" Hats
Many hats today come labeled as "one size fits most" (OSFM) These hats include adjustable features instead of fixed sizes.
These hats typically fit head circumferences between 21½ inches and 23 inches. This range covers most medium to large adult sizes comfortably.
Women's OSFM hats often target a slightly narrower range, usually around 21½ to 22¼ inches. They frequently include inner drawstrings, elastic bands, or adjustable sweatbands for a more secure fit.
The adjustable features let you customize the fit to your exact head size. Metal buckles, elastic bands, and drawstrings all work to tighten or loosen the hat as needed.
Actual comfort depends more on head shape, crown depth, and adjustability than on whether the hat is labeled for men or women. Try on OSFM hats when possible to see how they feel on your specific head shape.
→ Read more: How to Store Hats Properly at Home and While Traveling
Hat Size Conversion Chart
Understanding hat sizes helps you shop with confidence. Different brands use different sizing systems, but most follow standard measurements.
US hat sizes use numerical measurements like 6¾, 7, or 7⅛. Each size corresponds to a specific head circumference in inches. The difference between each size is usually about ⅜ of an inch.
Size labels like XS, S, M, L, and XL also appear on many hats. These letter sizes give you a general fit range but are less precise than numerical sizes.
→ Read more: Understanding Cap vs Hat: Differences, Styles & Uses
Here's how head circumference converts to hat sizes:
| Head Circumference | Hat Size (US) | Size Label |
|---|---|---|
| 21⅛" (53.5 cm) | 6¾ | XS |
| 21½" (54.6 cm) | 6⅞ | S |
| 22" (55.8 cm) | 7 | M |
| 22½" (57.2 cm) | 7⅛ | M |
| 23" (58.4 cm) | 7¼ | L |
| 23½" (59.7 cm) | 7⅜ | L |
| 24" (60.9 cm) | 7⅝ | XL |
| 24½" (62.2 cm) | 7¾ | XXL |
If your measurement falls between two sizes, go with the larger one. A slightly loose hat feels more comfortable than one that's too tight. You can always adjust down with padding or sweatband inserts if needed.
Some hats run small or large depending on the brand. Check customer reviews before ordering online. Many reviewers mention whether a hat fits true to size or runs differently than expected.
International sizing works differently than US sizing. European sizes use centimeters directly, while UK sizes follow their own numerical system. Always check the brand's specific size chart before ordering from international sellers. Now that you can measure hat size correctly, explore different types of hats to find the styles that suit your face shape and personality best.
Helpful Hat Fit Tips
- A properly fitted hat sits comfortably on your head without causing pressure or sliding around. Knowing what a good fit feels like helps you choose the right size.
- A hat should rest comfortably at the center of your forehead, just above your eyebrows. This is its natural resting position unless you intentionally wear it higher, tilted, or backwards.
- The hat should never drop low enough to cover your eyebrows or interfere with your vision. If you have to tilt your head back to see clearly, the hat is too large or positioned incorrectly.
- A light imprint that fades quickly after removing the hat is normal. But any lasting marks or pain mean the hat is too tight and you need a larger size.
- Use the one-finger test to check your fit. Slide one finger between your head and the hat without forcing it. If the finger fits comfortably, the fit is usually correct.
- If you feel pressure at your temples or above your ears, the hat size is likely too small. This pressure will only get worse the longer you wear the hat.
If you're ordering online and can't try the hat on first, look for adjustable options. Hats with buckle closures, elastic bands, or drawstrings let you fine-tune the fit even if the base size isn't perfect.
Customize Your Hats at GatorHats
Our vintage corduroy hats are designed in a One Size Fits Most (OSFM) format, making them easy to wear, easy to gift, and easy to customize.
Recommended Size & Fit
Based on our corduroy cap design:
- Head Circumference: 20" – 22" (50.8 – 56 cm)
- Profile: High profile, unstructured vintage look
- Closure: Adjustable metal buckle with tuck-in strap
Our embroidered corduroy caps feature a high profile, unstructured vintage look. The crown height measures 6 inches, giving you plenty of room for comfortable wear. The bill extends 3 inches from the front and measures 7 inches wide.
The adjustable back closure allows the hat to fit securely across a wide range of head sizes while keeping a relaxed, natural shape.
Why This Size Works Well for Custom Embroidery
This size and structure provide:
- This size and structure provide a balanced front panel for clean embroidery placement. Your custom designs show up clearly without distortion or awkward positioning. The comfortable fit means people actually wear these hats instead of leaving them in the closet.
- The unstructured hat design molds to your head over time. It gets more comfortable with each wear while maintaining its vintage character.
- The timeless vintage silhouette suits both casual and styled looks. You can wear these caps with jeans and a t-shirt or dress them up slightly for a more put-together appearance.
Since our corduroy hats currently come in a single standard size, we carefully selected this format to match the most common adult head measurements and everyday wear preferences.
Conclusion
Getting your hat size right changes how you feel about wearing hats. That two-minute measurement saves you from headaches, constant adjusting, and hats that end up unworn in your closet.
Take the time to measure your head correctly. Use a flexible tape measure, position it about half an inch above your eyebrows, and wrap it around the widest part of your head. Write down that number and keep it handy for future hat purchases.
Ready to create your perfect custom hat? Start with an accurate measurement, and you'll get a hat you'll actually want to wear every day.
FAQs About How To Measure Your Hat Size
1. What if I don't have a measuring tape to measure my hat size?
Use a piece of string or ribbon instead. Wrap it around your head about half an inch above your eyebrows, mark where it overlaps, then measure the string against a ruler. This method gives you the same accurate reading as a fabric measuring tape.
2. Should I measure my head with my hair up or down?
Measure with your hair styled the way you'll typically wear it with the hat. Thick hair or high ponytails add volume that affects fit. If you usually wear your hair down, measure with it down for the most accurate size.
3. What do I do if my measurement falls between two hat sizes?
Always go with the larger size when you fall between measurements. A slightly loose hat feels more comfortable than one that's too tight. You can adjust the fit down with sweatband inserts or padding if needed, but you can't make a small hat bigger.
4. How often should I remeasure my head for hat sizing?
Remeasure your head every few years or if you notice significant weight changes. Head size can change slightly with weight gain or loss, aging, or medical conditions. Take a fresh measurement when ordering from a new brand since sizing standards vary.
5. Why does the same hat size fit differently across brands?
Hat sizing isn't standardized across all manufacturers. Some brands run small or large, and different hat styles fit differently even in the same size. Crown depth, hat shape, and materials all affect how a size 7 fits from one brand versus another.
