The Complete Guide to Measuring Head for Hat Size
By Ben • Published: September 8, 2025 • Updated: September 8, 2025
Finding a hat that feels made-to-fit starts with one simple step: knowing your size. As someone who is 6’5”, I’ve felt the pain of “almost-right” fits in clothing—even though I don’t have a larger head, it is still essential for me to measure my head for a comfortably fitting hat. Learning how to measure head for hat size removes the guesswork so your cap, fedora, or beanie sits comfortably and looks balanced.
If you prefer ready-to-wear options after measuring, explore our big head hats built for comfort and proportion.
Why Getting Your Exact Hat Size Matters
The right size changes how a hat feels and how it looks. A size that matches your head circumference rests where it should, stays secure during daily wear, and avoids pressure points that cause headaches. It also frames your face more naturally, which makes any style—classic or casual—feel effortless.
Standard “one-size-fits-most” ranges cover roughly 54–61 cm. Many people fall outside that band or land near the edges. That’s why an accurate measurement is practical: it saves returns, improves comfort, and makes style decisions easier. The average adult male head is about 57 cm (22.5 in), but averages don’t predict your best fit—precision does.
- Comfort: Less pinching at the temples, fewer hot spots.
- Security: A hat that sits level and stays put during movement.
- Confidence: Proportions that suit your face shape and wardrobe.
Measure Your Head for Hat Size (Step-by-Step)
Set aside two minutes and a flexible tape. A small measuring error—just 0.25 in—can bump you into a different size, so go slow and keep the tape level.
What You’ll Need
- A soft, flexible measuring tape
- A mirror to check level placement
- A phone or notebook to record inches and centimeters
Step-by-Step
- Place the tape about one inch above your eyebrows.
- Wrap it around the widest part of your head, passing just above your ears.
- Use a mirror to keep the tape level—front, sides, and back.
- Pull it snug, not tight; it should rest against the skin without pressing in.
- Record your measurement in inches and centimeters.
Tip: Take two or three measurements. If they differ, use the largest number. Accurate measuring now means easier sizing later.
Convert Your Measurement to a Hat Size (Charts & Quick Math)
Once you know your head circumference, convert it to a fitted size used by your preferred brand. The U.S. system uses fractional sizes (like 7 1/8), while the U.K., Europe, and Japan typically use centimeters. A 22.5-inch (57 cm) measurement usually maps to U.S. 7 1/8.
No chart handy? Use a simple formula to calculate a fitted size: inches ÷ π (3.14). Example: 22 ÷ 3.14 ≈ 7.0. If you’re between sizes, rounding up is the safer choice. A slightly loose fit can be refined with a sizing strip; a too-tight hat is tougher to fix.
“I thought hats weren’t for me. After measuring 63 cm and buying the size that matched, my cap stayed comfortable all day.” — Faded Days customer
Remember that materials behave differently. Wool may tighten slightly with moisture and time. Cotton and some synthetics can ease a bit with wear. When in doubt, check the brand’s size chart and consider your climate.
Avoid Common Measuring Mistakes (and Easy Fixes)
Most sizing problems come from tape placement and tension. Measure too high or too low and you’ll get a number that doesn’t match how a hat sits. Pull the tape too tight and you’ll choose a size that feels restrictive the moment you put it on.
- Keep it level: Use a mirror to check that the tape sits at the same height all the way around.
- Skip bulky hair accessories: Measure without clips or bands that add thickness.
- Mind the tension: The tape should be snug, not compressing.
Kids vs. adults: Children’s head growth stabilizes around age 10–12, so re-measure more often. Adult head size is stable, but it’s smart to re-check yearly, especially before buying a new brand or style.
Lock In Your Best Fit (Hair, Liners, and Re-Checks)
Measure the way you’ll actually wear your hat. Braids, thick curls, or winter liners can add measurable volume—sometimes up to half a size. If you change hairstyles seasonally, take a separate measurement for each scenario so your fit stays consistent.
- Record both units: Keep inches and centimeters handy for brand-to-brand comparisons.
- Note conditions: Hair down vs. braided, with or without a liner.
- Try before you buy: If you’re on the cusp, test the next size up with a sizing strip for a dialed-in fit.
If you’ve measured toward the upper end of common ranges, you may also prefer wider eyewear. Our frames go up to 165 mm to suit broader faces and temple widths. Explore our 165 mm XXL sunglasses or our sport option, the polarized sport shades for big heads, for a stable, comfortable feel that matches your measurement-first approach.
FAQs: Hat Sizing, Measuring, and Fit
How do I measure my head for a hat size?
Place a soft tape one inch above your eyebrows and wrap it around the widest part of your head, just above your ears. Keep the tape level using a mirror. Pull it snug, not tight, and record inches and centimeters. Take two or three readings and use the largest number.
What is the average head size for men?
The average adult male head circumference is about 22.5 inches (57 cm), which maps to a U.S. fitted size near 7 1/8. Averages are a starting point only—your precise measurement should determine the hat you buy for best comfort and shape.
Is a 24-inch head considered large?
Yes, 24 inches sits above standard one-size ranges and typically falls into XXL territory. Look for extended sizes or specialty brands designed for larger heads. A proper measurement ensures the hat sits level and feels secure without pressure.
How do I convert head circumference to fitted hat size?
Use a chart or divide inches by π (3.14). For example, 22 ÷ 3.14 ≈ size 7. When between sizes, round up and fine-tune with a sizing strip. Always compare your result with the brand’s published chart before purchasing.
Should I size up or down if I’m between sizes?
Size up. A slightly roomy hat can be adjusted with a sizing strip or sweatband insert, while a too-small hat creates pressure and is hard to stretch comfortably. If your hairstyle varies, measure for the fullest version you wear most often.
Conclusion: Measure Once, Buy With Confidence
Learning how to measure head for hat size takes minutes and pays off every time you shop. You’ll choose styles with confidence, reduce returns, and enjoy a comfortable, secure fit. When you’re ready to use the same measurement-first approach for eyewear, visit our sunglasses fitting guide.
Thanks for supporting our small business. If measuring changed your experience with hats, share your story in the comments—we read every one.