Utility Loft → Hat Size → How to Measure
How to Measure Your Head for a Hat
One measurement — your head circumference — gives you your hat size in every system. Here's how to get it right, then convert it below.
- Grab a soft tape measure (or string and a ruler).
- Wrap it around the widest part of your head — a finger-width above the ears and eyebrows.
- Keep it level front to back, snug but not tight.
- Read the number in centimeters or inches.
- Enter it below to get your US, UK, EU, and S/M/L size.
Enter your head circumference above to see your hat size in every standard.
Tips for the best fit
- Measure over your usual hairstyle.
- Take the reading twice and average it.
- Between sizes? Choose the larger and use sizing tape to fine-tune.
- Stiff-brim and structured hats are less forgiving than beanies — measure carefully.
Related
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly does the tape go?
Around the widest part of your head: across the mid-forehead (about a finger-width above your eyebrows) and around the bump at the back. That's where a hat's band rests. Keep the tape level all the way around.
How tight should the tape be?
Snug but comfortable — the tape should sit flat against your hair without compressing it. Too loose gives a hat that slips; too tight gives one that leaves a mark. If in doubt, take the measurement twice and average it.
No tape measure — what can I use?
Wrap a piece of string or a strip of paper around your head, mark where it overlaps, then lay it flat against a ruler. Read the length in centimeters or inches and enter it in the converter.
Should I measure over my hair?
Measure over the hair you'll normally wear with the hat, since it affects the fit. If your hairstyle changes a lot, measure closer to the scalp and size up slightly for bulkier days.