How To Measure Hat Size: Hat Sizing Chart

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes.

Are you thinking of buying a new hat but aren’t sure how to measure hat size?

We’ve got you covered.

This hat sizing guide includes step-by-step instructions for measuring your hat size and a handy hat size chart to compare different size types, including NZ hat size and US hat size.

Scroll straight down if you already know your head size and you’d like to skip to the hat sizing chart right away.

In this hat size guide:

• How to measure hat size
• Hat sizes chart
• Common questions about hat sizes

All right, let’s get into it!

How to measure hat size

To measure your hat size, you will need a soft tape measure.

These can usually be purchased at a hardware store, fabric store, or general store such as K-mart or The Warehouse.

Once you’re ready, the steps below will teach you how to measure and find your hat size.

Determine your hat size by following these steps:

1. Measure your head circumference using a soft tape measure.

In order to find your hat size, you must first determine the size of your head.

Position the soft tape measure in the middle of your forehead and wrap it around your head, keeping it just above the ears.

Where the circle of the tape measure closes is where you’ll find your size. It doesn’t matter if you’re using inches or centimetres, as the hat sizing chart below will help you determine your NZ hat size regardless of how you measure it.

2. Determine hat size using a hat sizing chart

In the next section, you’ll find a hat size guide that covers the following hat sizing types:

• NZ hat sizes
• UK hat sizes
• US hat sizes
• Generic hat sizes

Check the size listed on the website where you buy your hat. If you’re buying from a physical store, check the tag on the inside or ask a staff member to tell you.

Hat sizes chart

Use the hat size guide below to learn your hat size.

In some cases, the US hat size or UK hat size may not be consistent with this chart - but if you buy from a trusted supplier, it should work out the same.

Hat sizing chart for women and men

Children's hat sizes

Pro tip: If you’re worried that a hat might be too small for your head, go for the next size up. You can always add a layer of foam to the inside of a large hat to make it fit better.

Common hat sizing questions

Here are a few answers to the most common questions we hear regarding NZ hat sizes and hat sizes in general.

If you need to know more, simply send us a message.

How do you know your hat size?

You can find out your hat size by using a hat sizing chart like the one above. Remember to double-check which measurement system the hat store uses before purchasing a new hat.

What are the sizes of hats?

Most hats range between 53cm (XS) and 63cm (2XL). This does not include children’s hats, which can be anywhere between 40cm and 52cm.

What does a size 7 hat mean?

A size 7 hat is a measurement used by American and British hat makers or sellers. In the UK, size 7 hats have a circumference of 57cm or 22 ¼”. In the US, size 7 hats have a circumference of 56cm or 21 ⅞”.  

How do you measure hat size?

Hat size can be measured by using a soft measuring tape to determine the circumference of your head, and then comparing your head size to a hat sizing chart like the one posted above.

What hat size is 23 inches?

A 23” hat size is equivalent to a size 7 ¼ in the UK, a size 7 ⅜ in the US, and a large in generic hat sizes. 23” is the same as 59cm.