How to Measure Hat Size - A Simple Guide for the Perfect Fit
Ever wondered why some hats feel just right, while others are a little too snug or frustratingly loose? The secret lies in one simple measurement: your hat size. A hat with the exact fit isn't just about comfort. It’s essential for how it looks on you, how long it lasts, and most importantly, the style it brings to your wardrobe.
With over a century of expertise in traditional and modern hat fitting in Melbourne, City Hatters understands that finding your ideal hat size is the first step to discovering your new favourite accessory. This simple guide explains how to measure hat size at home, including our in-house hat size chart, to ensure your next hat is nothing short of the perfect fit.
Why Hat Sizing Matters
An ill-fitting hat can quickly turn a stylish statement into a frustrating accessory. Here’s why finding the right hat size is essential.
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Genuine Comfort: A properly sized hat fits snugly without pinching or leaving marks, ensuring comfort for all-day wear. Too tight can cause headaches. Too loose, and it risks slipping off.
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Flawless Style: The right hat size ensures your hat sits correctly, achieving the look you’re aiming for and enhancing your overall style.
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Functionality & Security: A well-fitted hat stays securely in place, protecting you from the sun, especially important for broad-brimmed hats.
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Quality & Longevity: Correct sizing prevents stretching, warping, or premature wear and tear, preserving your hat's original shape and extending its lifespan.
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Precision Fit: Unlike other pieces of clothing, hat size must be particularly precise, with even small variations significantly impacting the quality of the fit and look.
The Tools You Need Before Your Measure
Before you can measure your hat size at home, you’ll need these simple items. Having them ready will make the process quick, easy, and accurate.
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Soft Measuring Tape: The most effective way to measure your head circumference.
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String & Ruler: If you don't have a soft tape measure, a piece of string or ribbon can be wrapped around your head, marked, and then measured flat with a standard ruler.
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Mirror: Especially helpful if you're measuring your own head, a mirror allows you to ensure the tape or string is positioned correctly and evenly around your head.
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Pen & Paper: Essential for noting down your precise measurement immediately.
Step-by-Step: How to Measure Your Head
Now you’re ready to measure! Follow these four simple steps to determine your hat size.
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Step 1: Start by holding the zero end of the tape measure at the center of your forehead, approximately 2cm (just under an inch) above your brow line.
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Step 2: Wrap the tape around your head, ensuring it stays straight and level. Position it about 1cm (1/2 an inch) above your ears. Make sure the tape sits on the natural bump at the back of your head for the most accurate circumference. Bring the tape back to meet the starting point on your forehead, maintaining the 1cm height above the opposite ear.
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Step 3: Keep the tape comfortably snug around your head. Not tight enough to feel restrictive, but just enough to replicate how a hat will sit. Take the measurement in centimeters, as this is the standard unit for hat sizes.
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Step 4: For the most reliable result, measure your head twice. If your measurements differ slightly, always use the larger one to ensure your comfort.
Use This Hat Size Chart to Find Your Fit
Now that you've accurately measured your head circumference, use the handy hat size chart below to convert your measurement into your ideal hat size and find the perfect fit.
|
Head Circumference (cm) |
Hat Size (AU/UK) |
Hat Size (US) |
|
54 |
XS / 6 5/8 |
6 3/4 |
|
55 |
S / 6 3/4 |
6 7/8 |
|
56 |
S/M / 6 7/8 |
7 |
|
57 |
M / 7 |
7 1/8 |
|
58 |
M/L / 7 1/8 |
7 1/4 |
|
59 |
L / 7 1/4 |
7 3/8 |
|
60 |
XL / 7 3/8 |
7 1/2 |
|
61 |
XL / 7 1/2 |
7 5/8 |
|
62 |
XXL / 7 5/8 |
7 3/4 |
|
63 |
XXL / 7 3/4 |
7 7/8 |
5 Fit Tips from the Experts at City Hatters
Even with precise measurements and our hat size chart, finding the best fit can sometimes benefit from expert insight. Here are five top tips from City Hatters.
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Comfort is Key: Your hat should feel comfortably snug, never pinching or shifting when you move your head. Ensure the internal crown matches your head size for a secure feel.
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When in Doubt, Size Up: If your measurement falls between two standard hat sizes, always go for the larger. Hat inserts or adjusters can then provide a custom, snug fit.
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Consider Head Shape: The point where the hat's crown meets the brim is critical for a fitted hat. Many hats can be gently shaped internally to match the contours of your head for a more bespoke fit.
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Balance with Your Outfit: Choose hat shapes and sizes that complement your overall look. Pair a wide-brim hat with loose-fitting outfits, or smaller, simpler hats for everyday wear.
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Seek Expert Advice: For ultimate peace of mind, visit us in-store. Our experienced team offers personal fitting services to ensure your hat feels custom-made for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I’m in between sizes?
If your head circumference falls between two standard hat sizes, always choose the larger size. You can then use hat inserts or adjusters to achieve your ideal perfect fit.
Can I shrink or stretch a hat?
While it's best to start with a hat size that's already a perfect fit, some hats can be slightly adjusted. Stretching is often more successful with materials like cotton or wool using steam and a hat stretcher. If you need to make your hat a bit smaller, you might try gently applying heat, or our team can help by using sizing tape or altering the sweatband.
Do different hat styles fit differently?
Yes, while your head circumference determines your foundational hat size, different hat styles (structured versus softer styles) or the material can influence how a hat feels and sits on your head.
What’s the average hat size for men/women?
The average head circumference for men is around 59cm (corresponding to a Large), and for women, it's about 57cm (corresponding to a Medium). But as we've learned, it's always best to measure your own head circumference, rather than rely on general sizing, for the most accurate fit.
The Perfect Hat is Waiting for You at City Hatters
Now you know how to measure hat sizes, take the next step and find the perfect fit at City Hatters. Visit us in-store in Melbourne for a professional hat fitting with our expert team, or explore our online collection to find the finest panamas, trilbies, fedoras, and more. With over a century of experience, we remain Melbourne's most iconic destination to find a hat that lasts a lifetime.