What Hat Size Am I? A Simple Measuring Guide

Not sure what hat size you wear? You don’t need to guess — and you definitely don’t need to know your usual clothing size.

Your hat size is based primarily on your head circumference. In many European sizing systems, the number on the hat corresponds approximately to your head measurement in centimetres. For example, if your head measures 58 cm, your starting point is EU hat size 58.

Here’s how to find your size in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Measure Your Head

You’ll need a flexible measuring tape marked in centimetres.

1. Stand in front of a mirror.
2. Wrap the tape around your head where the hat’s inner band will sit, usually about 1–2 cm above your eyebrows.
3. Guide it above your ears and around the back of your head.
4. Keep the tape comfortably snug without squeezing your skin.
5. Read the measurement in centimetres and repeat to confirm it.

Example: If the tape reads 57.5 cm, your head circumference is 57.5 cm. For a structured hat available in whole-centimetre sizes, size 58 may be a useful starting point.

Step 2: Find Your Measurement in the Hat Size Chart

Use this general adult hat size chart to find your approximate European size.

Important: This is an approximate reference, not a universal standard. Letter sizes vary between brands, so always check the specific product’s size chart.

Step 3: Check the Type of Hat

Your head measurement is the starting point, but different hats fit differently.

• Fitted baseball caps: Choose the size that matches your head circumference as closely as possible.
• Adjustable caps: Check whether your measurement falls within the available adjustment range.
• Beanies: Look at the recommended head circumference range because knitted fabric can stretch.
• Bucket hats: Check both circumference and crown depth to make sure the hat sits comfortably.
• Structured brimmed hats: Pay attention to head shape as well as circumference.

A size that works perfectly for a stretchy beanie may not feel the same in a rigid fitted hat.

What If I Don’t Have a Measuring Tape?

You can still measure your head accurately with a piece of non-stretch string and a ruler.

1. Wrap the string around your head at the intended hat-band position.
2. Mark where the string meets its starting point.
3. Lay it flat without stretching it.
4. Measure the length from the starting point to the mark using a ruler.

Record the result in centimetres. Avoid stretchy string, which can distort your measurement.

What Hat Size Is 55, 56, 57, 58, 59 or 60 cm?

Here are some common measurements and their approximate European numeric sizes:

• 55 cm: EU hat size 55, often S.
• 56 cm: EU hat size 56, often M.
• 57 cm: EU hat size 57, often M.
• 58 cm: EU hat size 58, often L.
• 59 cm: EU hat size 59, often L.
• 60 cm: EU hat size 60, often XL.

Numeric sizes are a useful reference, but the manufacturer’s size recommendations should always guide your final choice.

What If I’m Between Hat Sizes?

Suppose your head measures 58.5 cm and the hat comes in sizes 58 and 59.

For a structured, non-stretch hat, size 59 is often the more comfortable starting point, particularly if size 58 would create pressure.

For an adjustable cap, check the available range. For a stretchy beanie, follow the manufacturer’s sizing guidance.

Don’t assume every hat will stretch enough to correct a sizing mistake.

How Do I Know If My Hat Size Is Correct?

Once you try it on, pay attention to comfort and stability.

A properly fitting hat should:

• feel comfortably snug without squeezing your forehead;
• stay in place when you turn your head normally;
• avoid sliding over your eyebrows;
• sit at the intended height without constant adjustment;
• feel comfortable during extended wear.

If it matches your circumference but feels tight in one area and loose in another, the crown shape may not suit your head.

Does Head Shape Affect Hat Size?

Yes. Two people can have exactly the same head circumference but different head shapes.

Some heads are rounder, while others are more oval. Hat crowns also vary in shape and depth.

If a fitted hat feels tight at the front and back but loose at the sides, it may be the wrong crown shape rather than the wrong numeric size.

Does My Hair Affect My Hat Size?

It can, especially if you have thick, curly or voluminous hair.

If you plan to wear your hair underneath your hat, arrange it as you normally would before measuring your head.

That way, your measurement better reflects how the hat will actually sit.

Are Men’s and Women’s Hat Sizes Different?

Hat sizes are primarily based on head circumference, not gender.

A head measuring 57 cm is approximately EU size 57 regardless of whether the hat is marketed to women or men.

However, the available sizes, crown shapes and design proportions may differ between collections.

Explore our women’s accessories or browse our men’s accessories to find accessories that match your style. Always check individual hat measurements before ordering.

Common Mistakes When Finding Your Hat Size

• Guessing instead of measuring: Your usual clothing size doesn’t determine your hat size.
• Pulling the tape too tightly: This can make your measurement too small.
• Measuring in the wrong position: Follow where the hat’s band will actually sit.
• Ignoring the manufacturer’s chart: S, M, L and XL aren’t universal.
• Forgetting about head shape: Circumference alone doesn’t guarantee comfort.

Quick Answer: What Hat Size Am I?

To find your hat size, measure your head circumference in centimetres around the position where your hat’s inner band will sit. In European numeric sizing, your measurement usually corresponds approximately to the hat size.

For example, a 56 cm head is approximately EU size 56, while a 60 cm head is approximately EU size 60.

Then check the manufacturer’s size chart, hat construction and adjustability before choosing.

The golden rule: Measure your head, use centimetres as your reference and choose a hat that feels secure without squeezing or slipping.