Complete Hat Size Chart & Sizing Guide

The most comprehensive hat sizing resource covering international size conversions, brand-specific charts, measurement methods, and buying guides. From New Era fitted caps to cowboy hats, from infant sizes to crochet patterns - find the perfect hat size every time.

Start Measuring Size Converter
Hat Logo
XS 6⅝"
S 6¾"
M 7¼"
L 7⅝"
XL 7¾"

Why Understanding Hat Sizes is Important

✅

Perfect Comfort

Proper hat sizing ensures comfortable wear without pressure points or slipping, especially during extended use.

🛡️

Functional Performance

Sports caps, safety helmets, and work hats require precise sizing for optimal protection and performance.

✨

Style & Appearance

The right size creates the perfect silhouette and ensures your hat complements your overall look.

💰

Avoid Returns

Accurate measurement prevents sizing mistakes when shopping online, saving time and return costs.

Hat Size Measurement Guide (How to Measure Hat Size)

Measurement Steps & Tools

1

Get a Flexible Measuring Tape

Use a soft measuring tape (tailor's tape) or a piece of string that you can measure later with a ruler.

2

Position the Tape Correctly

Place the measuring tape about 1/8 inch (3mm) above your eyebrows and ears, following the natural curve of your head.

3

Measure Around Your Head

Wrap the tape around the largest part of your head, keeping it level and snug but not tight.

4

Record Your Measurement

Note the measurement in both inches and centimeters. Round to the nearest 1/8 inch or 0.5 cm.

Common Measurement Mistakes & Corrections

❌ Measuring Too High

Don't measure at the top of your forehead. Stay about 1/8" above your eyebrows for accuracy.

❌ Too Tight or Loose

The tape should be snug but comfortable - you should be able to slide a finger underneath.

✅ Between Sizes?

If you're between sizes, choose the larger size. Most hats can be adjusted with padding or sizing tape.

✅ Hair Considerations

Measure with your typical hairstyle. Thick or voluminous hair may require going up half a size.

International Size Conversion Chart (Inches ↔ CM ↔ US ↔ UK ↔ EU)

Complete Hat Size Conversion Chart
Head Circumference (Inches) Head Circumference (CM) US Hat Size UK Hat Size EU Hat Size Generic Size
20¼" 51.4 cm 6⅜ 6¼ 51 XXS
20⅝" 52.4 cm 6½ 6⅜ 52 XS
21" 53.3 cm 6⅝ 6½ 53 XS
21⅜" 54.3 cm 6¾ 6⅝ 54 S
21¾" 55.2 cm 6⅞ 6¾ 55 S
22⅛" 56.2 cm 7 6⅞ 56 S
22½" 57.2 cm 7⅛ 7 57 M
22⅞" 58.1 cm 7¼ 7⅛ 58 M
23¼" 59.1 cm 7⅜ 7¼ 59 M
23⅝" 60.0 cm 7½ 7⅜ 60 L
24" 61.0 cm 7⅝ 7½ 61 L
24⅜" 61.9 cm 7¾ 7⅝ 62 L
24¾" 62.9 cm 7⅞ 7¾ 63 XL
25⅛" 63.8 cm 8 7⅞ 64 XL
25½" 64.8 cm 8⅛ 8 65 XXL

Hat Type Specific Size Charts

Fitted Hat Size Chart

Fitted hats, especially New Era 59FIFTY caps, use precise 1/8" increments and cannot be adjusted. Accurate measurement is crucial for the perfect fit.

Fitted Baseball Cap Sizing (New Era 59FIFTY Style)
Head Circumference Fitted Size Fit Description Best For
21" (53.3cm) 6⅝ Very Small Youth/Small Adults
21⅜" (54.3cm) 6¾ Small Small Adults
21¾" (55.2cm) 6⅞ Small-Medium Small-Medium Adults
22⅛" (56.2cm) 7 Medium Average Adults
22½" (57.2cm) 7⅛ Medium Average Adults
22⅞" (58.1cm) 7¼ Medium-Large Medium-Large Adults
23¼" (59.1cm) 7⅜ Large Large Adults
23⅝" (60.0cm) 7½ Large Large Adults
24" (61.0cm) 7⅝ Extra Large XL Adults
24⅜" (61.9cm) 7¾ Extra Large XL Adults
24¾" (62.9cm) 7⅞ XXL XXL Adults
25⅛" (63.8cm) 8 XXL XXL Adults

Cowboy Hat Size Chart

Western and cowboy hats typically have deeper crowns and may feel tighter than other hat styles. Consider going up half a size if you're between measurements.

🤠 Cowboy Hat Sizing Tips

  • Western hats should sit comfortably on your head without pressure
  • The hat should not slide down over your ears
  • Allow for slight loosening as the sweatband breaks in
  • Wind resistance: A properly fitted cowboy hat stays on in moderate wind
Western/Cowboy Hat Sizing
Hat Size Head Circumference Metric (CM) Notes
6¾ 21⅜" 54.3 cm Small
6⅞ 21¾" 55.2 cm Small-Medium
7 22⅛" 56.2 cm Medium (Most Popular)
7⅛ 22½" 57.2 cm Medium
7¼ 22⅞" 58.1 cm Medium-Large
7⅜ 23¼" 59.1 cm Large
7½ 23⅝" 60.0 cm Large
7⅝ 24" 61.0 cm Extra Large

Baseball Hat Size Chart

Baseball caps come in both fitted and adjustable styles. Most casual baseball caps use adjustable sizing with straps or snapbacks.

⚾ Fitted Baseball Caps

Use the same sizing as New Era fitted caps (see Fitted Hats tab). No adjustment mechanism.

🔧 Adjustable Baseball Caps

Usually come in S/M/L/XL sizes with strap or snapback adjustment. More forgiving sizing.

Adjustable Baseball Cap Sizing
Size Head Circumference Range Adjustment Range Best For
Youth 19" - 20½" (48-52cm) 2" adjustment Children 4-12 years
Small 20½" - 22" (52-56cm) 2" adjustment Small adults, older youth
Medium 22" - 23½" (56-60cm) 2" adjustment Average adults (most popular)
Large 23½" - 25" (60-63cm) 2" adjustment Large adults
X-Large 25" - 26½" (63-67cm) 2" adjustment Extra large adults

Snapback & Flexfit Hat Size Chart

Snapbacks offer the most adjustability with plastic snap closures. Flexfit hats use elastic material for a comfortable, flexible fit.

📎 Snapback Caps

  • Plastic snap closure on back
  • Usually "One Size Fits Most" (OSFM)
  • Adjusts from ~21" to 25" (53-64cm)
  • Most versatile for different head sizes

🌀 Flexfit Caps

  • Elastic spandex material
  • Sized like fitted caps but with stretch
  • More comfortable than rigid fitted caps
  • Popular for sports and casual wear
Flexfit Hat Sizing
Flexfit Size Head Circumference Stretch Range Equivalent Fitted Size
S/M 21⅜" - 22½" (54-57cm) ±½" 6¾ - 7⅛
L/XL 22⅞" - 24" (58-61cm) ±½" 7¼ - 7⅝
XXL 24⅜" - 25½" (62-65cm) ±½" 7¾ - 8⅛

Bucket Hat, Fedora & Hard Hat Size Charts

🪣 Bucket Hats

Bucket hats are typically sized as S/M/L/XL and are designed to fit loosely for comfort and sun protection.

Size Head Circumference Brim Width
Small 21" - 22" (53-56cm) 2" - 2.5"
Medium 22" - 23" (56-58cm) 2.5" - 3"
Large 23" - 24" (58-61cm) 2.5" - 3"
X-Large 24" - 25" (61-64cm) 3" - 3.5"

🎩 Fedora Hats

Fedoras follow traditional hat sizing and should fit snugly but comfortably. Consider the crown height and brim width.

Hat Size Head Circumference Typical Crown Height
6¾ 21⅜" (54.3cm) 4" - 4.5"
7 22⅛" (56.2cm) 4" - 4.5"
7¼ 22⅞" (58.1cm) 4.5" - 5"
7½ 23⅝" (60.0cm) 4.5" - 5"
7¾ 24⅜" (61.9cm) 5" - 5.5"

⛑️ Hard Hat / Safety Helmet

Safety helmets require precise fitting for protection. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and safety standards.

⚠️ Safety Note: Hard hats must meet OSHA standards. Consult manufacturer specifications for exact sizing and safety requirements.

Brand-Specific Hat Size Charts

New Era Hat Size Chart

59FIFTY Fitted: Uses precise 1/8" increments. No adjustment mechanism.

9FIFTY Snapback: Adjustable with snapback closure.

39THIRTY: Flexfit material with stretch fit.

New Era Fitted Hat Sizing (59FIFTY)
Size Circumference Style
6⅝21" (53.3cm)Youth/Small
6¾21⅜" (54.3cm)Small
6⅞21¾" (55.2cm)Small-Medium
722⅛" (56.2cm)Medium
7⅛22½" (57.2cm)Medium
7¼22⅞" (58.1cm)Medium-Large
7⅜23¼" (59.1cm)Large
7½23⅝" (60.0cm)Large
7⅝24" (61.0cm)Extra Large
7¾24⅜" (61.9cm)Extra Large
7⅞24¾" (62.9cm)XXL
825⅛" (63.8cm)XXL

Stetson Hat Size Chart

Stetson specializes in western and outdoor hats. Their sizing tends to run slightly larger to accommodate sweatbands that may shrink with wear.

Stetson Hat Sizing
Hat Size Head Circumference Hat Type
6¾21⅜" (54.3cm)Western/Fedora
6⅞21¾" (55.2cm)Western/Fedora
722⅛" (56.2cm)Western/Fedora
7⅛22½" (57.2cm)Western/Fedora
7¼22⅞" (58.1cm)Western/Fedora
7⅜23¼" (59.1cm)Western/Fedora
7½23⅝" (60.0cm)Western/Fedora
7⅝24" (61.0cm)Western/Fedora

Nike Hat Size Chart

Nike primarily uses S/M/L sizing for their athletic caps and uses "One Size Fits Most" (OSFM) for many adjustable styles.

Nike Athletic Cap Sizing
Nike Size Head Circumference Style Notes
Youth20" - 21" (51-53cm)Kids/Teen
Small21" - 22" (53-56cm)Small Adult
Medium22" - 23" (56-58cm)Average Adult
Large23" - 24" (58-61cm)Large Adult
X-Large24" - 25" (61-64cm)XL Adult
OSFM21" - 25" (53-64cm)Adjustable

Adidas Hat Size Chart

Adidas uses both traditional sizing and their own S/M/L system. Most Adidas caps feature adjustable straps or Flexfit technology.

Adidas Cap Sizing
Adidas Size Head Circumference Features
Youth19" - 21" (48-53cm)Adjustable strap
Small21" - 22" (53-56cm)Adjustable strap
Medium22" - 23" (56-58cm)Adjustable strap
Large23" - 24" (58-61cm)Adjustable strap
OSFA21" - 25" (53-64cm)One Size Fits All

Children's & Infant Hat Size Charts

Infant & Toddler Hat Sizes (Newborn - 5 Years)

Infant and Toddler Hat Sizing by Age
Age Range Head Circumference Hat Size Notes
Newborn (0-3 months) 13" - 14" (33-36cm) Newborn Soft, stretchy materials
3-6 months 14" - 15" (36-38cm) 3-6M Growth spurts common
6-12 months 15" - 17" (38-43cm) 6-12M Active babies
12-18 months 17" - 18" (43-46cm) 12-18M Toddler stage
18-24 months 18" - 19" (46-48cm) 18-24M More active play
2-3 years 19" - 20" (48-51cm) 2T-3T Preschool age
3-5 years 20" - 20½" (51-52cm) 3T-5T Pre-kindergarten

Youth & Teen Hat Sizes (6-18 Years)

Youth and Teen Hat Sizing
Age Range Head Circumference Youth Size Adult Equivalent
6-8 years 20½" - 21" (52-53cm) Youth Small 6⅜ - 6½
8-12 years 21" - 21½" (53-55cm) Youth Medium 6½ - 6⅝
12-16 years 21½" - 22" (55-56cm) Youth Large 6⅝ - 6¾
16-18 years 22" - 22½" (56-57cm) Youth XL 6¾ - 7

Children's Hat Sizing Tips

👶 For Infants

  • Choose soft, breathable materials
  • Avoid hats that are too tight
  • Check fit regularly as babies grow quickly
  • Ensure ear coverage for warmth

🧒 For Toddlers

  • Look for adjustable or stretchy designs
  • Consider chin straps for active play
  • Choose fun colors and designs
  • Prioritize sun protection

👦 For Youth

  • Transition to adult sizing around age 16
  • Consider their personal style preferences
  • Sports caps should fit securely
  • Allow room for hair styles

Crochet Hat Size Chart & Knitting Guidelines

When creating handmade hats, use these guidelines to determine the right circumference and crown diameter for different ages and sizes. Remember to add ease (extra room) for comfort.

Crochet & Knit Hat Sizing Reference
Age/Size Head Circumference Hat Circumference* Crown Diameter Hat Height
Newborn 13" - 14" (33-36cm) 12" - 13" (30-33cm) 4" - 4.25" (10-11cm) 5" - 5.5" (13-14cm)
3-6 months 14" - 15" (36-38cm) 13" - 14" (33-36cm) 4.25" - 4.5" (11-11.5cm) 5.5" - 6" (14-15cm)
6-12 months 15" - 17" (38-43cm) 14" - 16" (36-41cm) 4.5" - 5" (11.5-13cm) 6" - 6.5" (15-17cm)
Toddler (1-3 years) 18" - 20" (46-51cm) 17" - 19" (43-48cm) 5.5" - 6" (14-15cm) 6.5" - 7" (17-18cm)
Child (3-10 years) 20" - 21" (51-53cm) 19" - 20" (48-51cm) 6" - 6.5" (15-17cm) 7" - 7.5" (18-19cm)
Teen 21" - 22" (53-56cm) 20" - 21" (51-53cm) 6.5" - 6.75" (17-17cm) 7.5" - 8" (19-20cm)
Adult Small 21" - 22" (53-56cm) 20" - 21" (51-53cm) 6.5" - 6.75" (17cm) 8" - 8.5" (20-22cm)
Adult Medium 22" - 23" (56-58cm) 21" - 22" (53-56cm) 6.75" - 7" (17-18cm) 8.5" - 9" (22-23cm)
Adult Large 23" - 24" (58-61cm) 22" - 23" (56-58cm) 7" - 7.25" (18-18.5cm) 9" - 9.5" (23-24cm)
Adult X-Large 24" - 25" (61-64cm) 23" - 24" (58-61cm) 7.25" - 7.5" (18.5-19cm) 9.5" - 10" (24-25cm)

*Negative Ease: Hat circumference should be 1-2 inches smaller than head circumference for a snug fit.

Knitting & Crochet Pattern Guidelines

🧶 Yarn Weight Considerations

  • Worsted Weight (4): Most versatile for beginners
  • DK Weight (3): Good for detailed patterns
  • Chunky Weight (5): Quick projects, warm hats
  • Sport Weight (2): Lightweight, breathable

🔢 Starting Stitch Counts (Crochet)

  • Baby: 8-10 stitches in magic ring
  • Child: 10-12 stitches in magic ring
  • Adult: 12-14 stitches in magic ring
  • Large Adult: 14-16 stitches in magic ring

🧮 Cast On Counts (Knitting)

  • Baby (DK): 80-88 stitches
  • Child (DK): 88-96 stitches
  • Adult (DK): 96-104 stitches
  • Large (DK): 104-112 stitches

📏 Measuring Tips

  • Always check gauge before starting
  • Measure crown diameter as you work
  • Try on frequently during construction
  • Block finished hat for best fit

Interactive Hat Size Converter Tool

Enter Your Head Measurement

Frequently Asked Questions About Hat Sizes

What is the average hat size?

The average adult hat size is approximately 7¼ (22⅞ inches or 58cm) for men and 7⅛ (22½ inches or 57cm) for women. However, sizes can range from 6⅝ to 8 or larger.

What does "One Size Fits Most" (OSFM) mean?

OSFM typically means the hat adjusts to fit head circumferences from about 21" to 25" (53-64cm). This covers roughly 90% of adult head sizes through adjustable straps, snapbacks, or elastic materials.

How should a fitted hat feel?

A properly fitted hat should feel snug but comfortable, without pressure points. It shouldn't slide around when you shake your head, but you should be able to wear it for extended periods without discomfort.

Do hat sizes vary between brands?

Yes, sizing can vary slightly between brands. New Era tends to run true to size, while some fashion brands may run larger or smaller. Always check brand-specific size charts when possible.

Can I adjust a hat that's too big?

Yes! You can add foam sizing tape to the sweatband, use hat sizing inserts, or add padding. For slightly loose hats, some people use hair ties or bobby pins to improve fit.

What if I'm between two hat sizes?

Generally, choose the larger size. It's easier to make a hat smaller with sizing tape or inserts than to stretch a too-small hat. Most people find the larger size more comfortable.

How do children's hat sizes work?

Children's hats are typically sized by age ranges (0-3 months, 3-6 months, etc.) or use XS/S/M/L. Children's heads grow quickly, so check fit regularly and size up when in doubt.

Are women's and men's hat sizes different?

Hat sizes are based on head circumference regardless of gender. However, women's hats may be styled differently and some brands offer women-specific fits that account for different hair styles.

Do hats stretch or shrink over time?

Natural materials like wool can shrink if washed improperly, while cotton sweatbands may shrink slightly with sweat and cleaning. Synthetic materials typically maintain their size better.

How do I measure a baby's head for a hat?

Use a soft measuring tape around the largest part of the baby's head, just above the eyebrows and ears. For very young babies, you can also measure with a string and then measure the string.

Hat Buying Guide & Final Tips

🛒 Before You Buy

  • Measure your head at the same time of day you'll wear the hat
  • Consider your typical hairstyle when measuring
  • Check the brand's specific size chart
  • Read customer reviews for fit feedback
  • Consider the hat's intended use (casual, sports, formal)

📦 When Ordering Online

  • Check the return policy for size exchanges
  • Look for detailed product descriptions
  • Pay attention to material composition
  • Consider ordering two sizes if unsure
  • Look for adjustable options if between sizes

🎯 Perfect Fit Indicators

  • Hat sits comfortably without sliding
  • No pressure points on forehead or sides
  • Can shake your head without hat moving
  • Comfortable for extended wear
  • Proper coverage for intended purpose

🔧 Adjustment Options

  • Snapback: Most adjustable, fits 21"-25"
  • Velcro strap: Smooth adjustment, good hold
  • Buckle strap: Secure, professional look
  • Flexfit: Stretchy, comfortable fit
  • Fitted: No adjustment, most precise fit

Conclusion

Finding the right hat size is essential for comfort, style, and function. Use this comprehensive guide to measure accurately, understand different sizing systems, and make informed decisions when purchasing hats. Remember that when in doubt, it's usually better to go slightly larger and adjust as needed. With proper measurement and the right size information, you'll find the perfect hat every time.