PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Fashion
Fashion Accessories
Hats
How to Determine Your Hat Size Download ArticleExplore this Article methods 1 Measuring Your Head 2 Trying on Hats 3 Choosing a Hat When You Fall between Sizes Other Sections Related Articles References Reviewed by Shaelynn Haning
Last Updated: April 24, 2022 References
Download Article X
This article was reviewed by Shaelynn Haning. Shaelynn Haning is a Tailor & Business Owner based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Shaelynn is the founder of the highest-rated and most-reviewed alterations and tailoring service in Oklahoma, Tallgrass Tailor, employing a team of skilled craftsmen and women from across the country and the world. Shaelynn is a member of the State of Oklahoma Education Careers and Technologies Board and a member of both the Custom Tailors and Designers Association and the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals. She is the host of The Sew Show with Shae, an entertaining and educational sewing channel posting weekly videos on YouTube. Shaelynn earned her BS in Apparel Design and Product Development from Marist College. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 65,208 times.
Hats are practical and fashionable accessories, but in order for a hat to look good, it needs to fit well. To figure out your hat size, you can either measure your head or try on a variety of hats. There are 2 kinds of hat sizes: general sizes (small, medium, large, etc.) and specific hat sizes (6 ¾ - 8+). Knowing both of these sizes can help you to select the perfect-fitting hat. If you should fall between sizes, the general rule is to round up.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 3:
Measuring Your Head
Download Article
1 Wrap a length of string around your head. Locate a piece of string or twine that is about 25 inches (64 cm) long. Place 1 end of the string in the middle of your forehead, and wrap it around your head. You want the string to rest about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) above your ears, right where you’d like the hat to sit on your forehead.[1]XResearch source
This can also be done with a sewing tape measure.
2 Pinch the string. Grab the place where the string meets back up with the center of your forehead (and the other end of the string) with your thumb and forefinger. Remove the string from your head without losing this spot.[2]XResearch source
You may want to cut the string at this location to make measuring easier.
Advertisement
3 Lay your string next to a ruler. Lay the string down flat without losing your spot. Use a ruler to determine the length of the string (and size of your head.) Write down this measurement so you won't forget.[3]XResearch source
Your measurement needs to be accurate down to 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm).
If you used a sewing tape measure, you can skip this step.
4 Translate this number into a hat size. Many hats are sized generally (small, medium, large). Some hats will have more specific sizes ranging from 6 ¾ to 8+. Reference a size chart to determine your hat size based on your measurement.[4]XResearch source Here are some guidelines:
21.125–21.5 inches (53.66–54.61 cm) = Small or sizes 6 ¾ - 6 ⅞.
21.875–22.25 inches (55.56–56.52 cm) = Medium or sizes 7 - 7 ⅛.
22.625–23 inches (57.47–58.42 cm) = Large or sizes 7 ¼ - 7 ⅜.
23.5–23.875 inches (59.69–60.64 cm) = X-Large or sizes 7 ½ - 7 ⅝.
1 Visit a hat shop. Locate a hat shop in your area, and pay them a visit. Check out different hat styles that you might be interested in, and try on many hats. Bring a friend with you to get a second opinion on what looks good.[5]XResearch source
You can also do this with hats you have at home.
2 Find a hat that feels comfortable. Try on hats in a variety of sizes until you find one that feels right. You might even ask a sales associate to help you find a hat that fits you properly.[6]XResearch source
3 Note the size. When you find a hat that fits, look at the size. Many hats will be sized as small, medium, large, or extra large. Some hats will have more specific sizes, ranging from 6 ¾ to 8+. Try to figure out both your general hat size, as well as your more specific hat size. It can be important to know both.[7]XResearch source
This isn't an exact science. There will be some variation from brand to brand.
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 3:
Choosing a Hat When You Fall between Sizes
Download Article
1 Choose the larger size. Whether you’ve measured your head, tried on hats, or both, you might find that you fall in between sizes. If this happens to you, you should always round up. Hats generally shrink. They don’t stretch.[8]XResearch source
2 Add “filler” to your hat. You can purchase hat filler from almost any hat shop. Hat filler consists of foam lining that is adhesive on one side. You can stick 1, 2, or 3 pieces of hat filler into your hat to help make it the perfect size for you.[9]XResearch source
If you don’t want to do this yourself, an associate at your local hat shop can probably do it for you.
The hat lining attaches to the sweatband of the hat.
Hat lining is generally not removable. Attempting to remove it yourself could damage the hat.
3 Shrink your hat with moisture and heat. Hats are prone to shrinking over time. If your hat is a little too big, you can speed up this process. Use a squirt bottle to mist your hat with water, then leave it in a warm place for several hours (such as near a heat vent or inside a hot car). Repeat this method 2-3 times until your hat feels right.[10]XResearch source
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Tips
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
You Might Also Like
How toMeasure for a Cowboy HatHow toShrink a HatHow toMeasure Beret SizeHow toShrink a Wool HatHow toMeasure Helmet SizeHow toKnit an Easy HatHow toStretch a HatHow toCrochet a Hat for BeginnersHow toChoose Hats for Your Face ShapeHow toMake a FezHow toWear a Cowboy Hat ProperlyHow toMeasure Head CircumferenceHow toDetermine Glove SizeHow toDetermine Belt Size Advertisement
Reviewed by: Shaelynn Haning Professional Tailor & Business Owner This article was reviewed by Shaelynn Haning. Shaelynn Haning is a Tailor & Business Owner based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Shaelynn is the founder of the highest-rated and most-reviewed alterations and tailoring service in Oklahoma, Tallgrass Tailor, employing a team of skilled craftsmen and women from across the country and the world. Shaelynn is a member of the State of Oklahoma Education Careers and Technologies Board and a member of both the Custom Tailors and Designers Association and the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals. She is the host of The Sew Show with Shae, an entertaining and educational sewing channel posting weekly videos on YouTube. Shaelynn earned her BS in Apparel Design and Product Development from Marist College. This article has been viewed 65,208 times. 25 votes - 96% Co-authors: 5Updated: April 24, 2022 Views: 65,208 Categories: Featured Articles | Hats In other languagesSpanish
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 65,208 times.
Reader Success Stories
Robert Holm
Apr 3, 2020
"I found out how to measure my head and now I know what size I need to buy!"
Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Reviewed by: Shaelynn Haning Professional Tailor & Business Owner Co-authors: 5Updated: April 24, 2022 Views: 65,20896% of readers found this article helpful. 25 votes - 96% Click a star to add your vote
Robert Holm
Apr 3, 2020
"I found out how to measure my head and now I know what size I need to buy!" Share yours!
Quizzes & Games
What Is My Face Shape QuizTake QuizCan We Guess How Tall You Are QuizTake QuizWhat Haircut Should I Get QuizTake QuizWhat's My Clothing Style Quiz (For Men)Take QuizWhat's My Hair Type QuizTake QuizHair Curl Type QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toMeasure for a Cowboy HatHow toShrink a HatHow toMeasure Beret SizeHow toShrink a Wool Hat
Featured Articles
250+ Messages to Reassure Your Partner (For Him & Her)What Is My Favorite Color Quiz215+ Funny & Creative Personalized Vanity Plate Ideas100+ Creative Ways to Say Good NightWhy Can't I Sleep Quiz150+ Love Paragraphs to Make Him Feel Special
Trending Articles
How toMake OutHow Rare Is My Birthday QuizRandom Fortune GeneratorIs Your Personality More 6 or 7?What Should My Name Really Be QuizIs a Guy You Don't Know Well Interested in You?
Featured Articles
What Does Your Tattoo Placement Mean? Spiritual & Aesthetic Meanings19 of the Rarest Wonders from around the WorldWhat Is the Fun Scale? The 3 Types of Fun & Their BenefitsWhat Is My Aesthetic QuizHow to Celebrate Xmas: Expert Advice on Enjoying the HolidaysHilarious Clean Jokes That’ll Make Adults & Kids Laugh
Featured Articles
Am I Ready For A Relationship QuizWhy Is He Ignoring Me? 12 Possible Reasons (Plus, What to Do)A Complete Style Guide for the Gamine Kibbe Body TypeHow to Tell if You’re in LoveWhich Chaotic Evil Villain Am I QuizWhat Does It Mean If Someone Tries to Kill You in Your Dream?
Watch Articles
How toWrap a Round GiftHow toSteam in an OvenHow to Make Plant-Based Meat: 4 Incredible RecipesHow toClean a Silver Necklace4 Easy Ways to Open a Can of SodaHow toPart Your Hair
Trending Articles
Which Classic Christmas Movie Character Am I?Can We Guess If You're a Cat or Dog Person?What Am I Craving Quiz30 of the Hardest Riddles on Earth: The Harvard Riddle & BeyondWhich of the Big Three Are Your Parents? (Percy Jackson)How to Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for Beginners
Quizzes & Games
What Men's Haircut Should I Get QuizTake QuizWhat Age Is My Brain QuizTake QuizWhat Do I Look Like QuizTake QuizHow Intelligent Am I QuizTake QuizHow Tall Will I Be QuizTake QuizDo I Have Common Sense QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Fashion
Fashion Accessories
Hats
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Explore this Article methods 1 Measuring Your Head 2 Trying on Hats 3 Choosing a Hat When You Fall between Sizes Other Sections Related Articles References Reviewed by Shaelynn Haning 
How toMeasure Beret Size 
Advertisement 
Reviewed by: Shaelynn Haning Professional Tailor & Business Owner This article was reviewed by Shaelynn Haning. Shaelynn Haning is a Tailor & Business Owner based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Shaelynn is the founder of the highest-rated and most-reviewed alterations and tailoring service in Oklahoma, Tallgrass Tailor, employing a team of skilled craftsmen and women from across the country and the world. Shaelynn is a member of the State of Oklahoma Education Careers and Technologies Board and a member of both the Custom Tailors and Designers Association and the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals. She is the host of The Sew Show with Shae, an entertaining and educational sewing channel posting weekly videos on YouTube. Shaelynn earned her BS in Apparel Design and Product Development from Marist College. This article has been viewed 65,208 times. 25 votes - 96% Co-authors: 5 Updated: April 24, 2022 Views: 65,208 Categories: Featured Articles | Hats In other languagesSpanish 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
501 
1 Wrap a length of string around your head. Locate a piece of string or twine that is about 25 inches (64 cm) long. Place 1 end of the string in the middle of your forehead, and wrap it around your head. You want the string to rest about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) above your ears, right where you’d like the hat to sit on your forehead.[1] 
2 Pinch the string. Grab the place where the string meets back up with the center of your forehead (and the other end of the string) with your thumb and forefinger. Remove the string from your head without losing this spot.[2] 
3 Lay your string next to a ruler. Lay the string down flat without losing your spot. Use a ruler to determine the length of the string (and size of your head.) Write down this measurement so you won't forget.[3] 
4 Translate this number into a hat size. Many hats are sized generally (small, medium, large). Some hats will have more specific sizes ranging from 6 ¾ to 8+. Reference a size chart to determine your hat size based on your measurement.[4] Here are some guidelines: 
1 Visit a hat shop. Locate a hat shop in your area, and pay them a visit. Check out different hat styles that you might be interested in, and try on many hats. Bring a friend with you to get a second opinion on what looks good.[5] 
2 Find a hat that feels comfortable. Try on hats in a variety of sizes until you find one that feels right. You might even ask a sales associate to help you find a hat that fits you properly.[6] 
3 Note the size. When you find a hat that fits, look at the size. Many hats will be sized as small, medium, large, or extra large. Some hats will have more specific sizes, ranging from 6 ¾ to 8+. Try to figure out both your general hat size, as well as your more specific hat size. It can be important to know both.[7] 
1 Choose the larger size. Whether you’ve measured your head, tried on hats, or both, you might find that you fall in between sizes. If this happens to you, you should always round up. Hats generally shrink. They don’t stretch.[8] 
2 Add “filler” to your hat. You can purchase hat filler from almost any hat shop. Hat filler consists of foam lining that is adhesive on one side. You can stick 1, 2, or 3 pieces of hat filler into your hat to help make it the perfect size for you.[9] 
3 Shrink your hat with moisture and heat. Hats are prone to shrinking over time. If your hat is a little too big, you can speed up this process. Use a squirt bottle to mist your hat with water, then leave it in a warm place for several hours (such as near a heat vent or inside a hot car). Repeat this method 2-3 times until your hat feels right.[10] Advertisement 