The Gift-Giver's Dilemma: How to Choose the Right Hat Size When You Can't Try It On

🎁 The Gift-Giver's Dilemma: How to Choose the Right Hat Size When You Can't Try It On

🧢 Introduction: Taking the Guesswork Out of Gifting

A hat is a fantastic, stylish, and practical Christmas gift - but how do you nail the size when your loved one isn't there to try it on? Don't worry, you don't need to sneak a tape measure onto their head!

This guide will walk you through four methods to find the perfect fit, ensuring your festive gift is a hit, not a headache.

📏 Step 1: Understanding Hat Sizing (The Basics)

Most UK hats are measured by circumference (the distance around the head). Sizes are typically listed in one of three ways:

Sizing Format

Typical Measurements (cm)

Numeric (e.g., 57, 59)

55 – 63 cm

Alpha (e.g., S, M, L)

Small – 55cm, Medium – 57cm, Large 59cm, X-Large 61cm

One Size Fits All (OSFA)

Often 56 - 58cm

 

Key takeaway: The single most common adult size for men is typically 59 cm, and for women, it’s around 57cm. If you truly have to guess, these are the safest bets for structured hats.

🕵️ Step 2: The Sneaky Sizing Methods (4 Ways to Measure Without Measuring)

Since you can't measure their head directly, try these indirect methods:

1. Ask Without Spoiling the Surprise

If you can be subtle about it, simply ask. Frame it casually: "What size hat do you usually wear?" or "Do you know your head circumference?" Most people who wear hats regularly will know their size.

2. Measure Their Favourite Existing Hat (The Best Method)

If they own a hat they love and wear often, this is your gold standard:

  • The Check: Look inside the hat. Quality hats often have the size stamped inside, either on the band or care label.
  • The Measure: If no size is stamped, use a flexible tape measure or a piece of string to measure the circumference of the hat. This can be tricky so you might want to try it a few times to be sure you’ve measured accurately.

3. Use the Average as a Starting Point

When in doubt, go with the averages:

  • Women: 55-57cm (UK size Small to Medium)
  • Men: 57-59cm (UK size Medium to Large)

4. The "One Size” or “Adjustable” Option

When in doubt, choose a style that is inherently flexible:

  • Beanies & Knitted Hats: These offer significant stretch and are the least risky choice for gifting, as they conform to most head shapes.
  • Adjustable: Many of our hats and caps feature adjustable elements such as elastic backs or drawstrings. These styles are more forgiving and make excellent gifts when you're unsure of exact sizing. You can even use our search filter to find the hats and caps with adjustable sizing.

💡 Step 3: What to Do If You're In-Between Sizes

If your findings point to a size that falls between two standard options (e.g., 57.5cm, we recommend you choose to size up.

  • Why? A hat that is too tight is unwearable. A hat that is slightly too large can often be fixed easily:
    • Structured Hats: Use a hat sizer (thin foam or cork strips) placed under the sweatband to reduce the size by up to1cm.
    • Knitted Hats: Simply washing the hat carefully and allowing it to air dry can sometimes tighten the weave slightly.

✅ Conclusion: Our Hassle-Free Gift Guarantee

Finding the perfect fit doesn't have to be stressful! By using one of the sneaky sizing methods above, you're giving yourself the best chance of success.

And remember, every purchase from The Hat Company this Christmas is backed by our Extended Christmas Returns Policy - so if the fit isn't quite right, we make returns easy, ensuring your loved one ends up with the perfect headwear gift.

If, however, you’ve exhausted all options and still feel uncertain about the size, a thoughtful e-gift card is the ultimate guaranteed-fit solution, allowing the recipient to choose the perfect style and size themselves. Now go forth and give the gift of great headwear this Christmas!

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