Buzz
Yeehaw! Are you in the market for a cowboy hat? Surprisingly, cowboy hats don't adhere to a one-size-fits-all rule. Knowing your hat size can make or break your cowboy look. In this guide, we'll show you the ropes on measuring for a cowboy hat, determining your hat size, and selecting the perfect style. Saddle up, cowboys and cowgirls, because we're about to take some hat measurements!
Steps
How to Discover Your Hat Size
Wrap a soft tape measure around your head. Position the tape measure where you envision the hat sitting—just above your eyebrows, over your ears, and slightly lower at the back.
- If you have long hair, secure it in a low, tight ponytail before measuring.
- Alternatively, use a piece of string instead of a soft tape measure; simply mark it and measure it with a ruler or tape measure to ascertain your head size.
Adjust the tape measure to your desired hat tightness. The tape represents the inner circumference of the hat. Allow some extra length for a relaxed fit or tighten for a snugger feel.
Mark where the tape meets its starting point. Unroll the tape and note the closest inch measurement to your marked spot. This measurement indicates your head size or circumference.
- Experts suggest taking multiple measurements for accuracy.
Refer to a cowboy hat size chart for comparison. Each hat brand offers its own sizing reference, though they generally follow a similar size range. Consult the sizing chart of your chosen hat brand to determine your hat size.
- 21 ¼ to 21 ⅝ in (54 to 55 cm): Size 6 ¾ and 6 ⅞ (Small)
- 22 to 22 ⅜ in (55.9 to 56.8 cm): Size 7 and 7 ⅛ (Medium)
- 22 ¾ to 23 ⅛ in (57.8 to 58.7 cm): Size 7 ¼ and 7 ⅜ (Large)
- 23 ½ to 23 ⅞ in (59.7 to 60.6 cm): Size 7 ½ and 7 ⅝ (X-Large)
- 24 ¼ to 25 in (61.6 to 63.5 cm): Size 7 ¾ and 7 ⅞ (2XL)
- 25 ½ in (64 cm): Size 8 (3XL)
What if you're in between sizes?
If you find yourself between hat sizes, opt for the larger size. It's easier to adjust a bigger cowboy hat for a snug fit, but impossible to make a smaller one larger. Simply apply a hat size reducer tape following these steps:
- Lift the inner band of the hat (if applicable).
- Place the tape along the inner rim of the hat where it touches your head.
- Trim any excess tape and put on the hat.
- Apply additional tape layers where needed for a snug fit.
How to Choose the Right Cowboy Hat Style?
Select a cowboy hat style that complements your personal taste. With numerous cowboy hat styles available, each with its own distinctive characteristics and purpose, it's essential to find one that resonates with you. Explore these popular styles to discover your favorite:
- Cattleman: Featuring a two-rowed crease and squared rim
- Brick: Noted for its rectangle crease and squared rim
- Pinch Front: Featuring an angled crease and downward, rounded rim
- Gus: Recognized for its tailored crease and taller end
- Gambler or Telescope: Characterized by a rounded crease and rim
