Fashion
Fact-checked

At BeautyAnswered, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Determine my Hat Size?

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

Finding one's hat size is a process of taking accurate measurements, considering the kind of hat that the measurements are for, and considering where the hat will be made. As with many other types of clothing and accessories, sizing charts vary from country to country. A hat size in the United States does not necessarily correspond to a hat size in the United Kingdom, even if the sizes are numerically identical. The best way to determine one's hat size is to find a sizing chart and sizing instructions distributed by a hat company that one plans to patronize. This is the best way to take accurate hat size as the information should also include specific instructions about how and where to measure the head.

For those who are interested in learning their hat size for more general purposes, there are basic measurements that can be taken. In order to take these measurements one will need a tape measure made of cloth or flexible plastic and, perhaps, a friend to help take the measurements. The circumference of the head should be measured at the widest part of the head. First, take the tape measure and measure 1 inch (about 2.5 cm) straight up from the arch of the eyebrows. This will determine the latitude on the head from which the circumference can be taken.

You can determine your hat size by taking a few basic measurements.
You can determine your hat size by taking a few basic measurements.

Have a friend measure this circumference two times. If the measurements differ, try a few more times until a dominant measurement presents itself. This is most likely the accurate measurement. In general, a circumference that is 21 inches (about 53 cm) is considered to be small. A person with this hat size will wear hats that are sizes small or extra small.

A circumference between 21 inches (about 53 cm) and 22 inches (about 56 cm) would also be considered small, but not extra small. A medium sized hat would fit a person with a head circumference between 22 inches (about 56 cm) and 22.5 inches (57 cm). A person with a head circumference between 22.5 inches (57 cm) and 23.5 inches (60 cm) would probably wear a large-sized hat. Those with head circumferences that exceed these measurements would have to wear hats that are sized as extra large and higher. Those who have especially large heads may have to have their hats custom made whereas those with more common hat sizes can usually purchase hats that have already been fabricated.

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for BeautyAnswered, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.

Learn more...
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for BeautyAnswered, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

irontoenail

I wonder if hat stores keep stockings on hand for your head the way shoe stores will often keep them for feet. It does seem rather gross to know that people will have tried on your hat multiple times before you buy it, but I'm not sure I'd want to get a hat without trying it on, even if it seemed on paper to be the right size.

umbra21

@KoiwiGal - Even if the hat is adjustable, that might not be enough. When I was visiting Prague I discovered that one of the more popular souvenirs was Russian army hats and I had a friend who would love one, so I got him one. I tried to get one that would be adjustable, but even then it was too small and he basically just keeps it on display.

I think the best rule is to go as big as you can, if you aren't sure what size you need. It's always a lot easier to make something smaller than it is to make it bigger.

KoiwiGal

If you aren't sure and you aren't in a place where you can get proper measuring tape, then just pick a hat that will adjust to your size. If you're looking for one to keep the sun out of your eyes most baseball hats are going to be size adjustable. If you're looking for one that will keep your head warm, then most will be made from fairly stretchy materials.

Just remember that a lot of stores won't give you a refund on hats because of hygiene issues, so either make sure it's going to fit or make sure that they will take it back.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • You can determine your hat size by taking a few basic measurements.
      By: Schlierner
      You can determine your hat size by taking a few basic measurements.