What is the best way to measure your head for a baseball cap? The easiest way to measure your head for a baseball cap is to use a soft measuring tape and wrap it around the widest part of your head, usually about an inch above your ears and eyebrows. This measurement will tell you your crown circumference, which is key for determining the right cap size.
Finding the perfect baseball cap can feel like a quest, especially when you’re shopping online or for someone else. A cap that’s too tight can give you a headache, while one that’s too loose will constantly slip down, obstructing your vision. This guide is here to demystify the process of how to measure head for baseball cap, ensuring you achieve that ideal baseball cap fitting every time. We’ll cover everything from the tools you need to understanding hat size charts and how to utilize a cap size calculator.
The Importance of Accurate Head Measurement
Why bother with precise measurements when you can just try on a cap? Well, not everyone has access to a physical store, and even then, trying on every cap can be time-consuming. Furthermore, consistent and accurate measurements are the foundation for determining cap size correctly, whether it’s for a baseball cap, a beanie, or any other headwear. A well-fitting hat not only looks better but also feels more comfortable, especially during extended wear. This hat measurement guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently pick the right size, making your hat-buying experience a breeze. Getting your head circumference measurement right is the first step to achieving proper hat fit.
Gathering Your Tools for Measurement
Before you embark on this simple yet crucial task, you’ll need a couple of items:
- A Flexible Measuring Tape: This is the most important tool. A soft cloth or fabric measuring tape, the kind used for sewing, is ideal because it can easily conform to the curves of your head. Avoid using a rigid metal tape measure, as it won’t provide an accurate reading.
- A Mirror: Having a mirror handy will help you ensure you’re placing the tape measure correctly.
- A Pen and Paper (or your phone’s notes app): You’ll need to record your measurement.
If you don’t have a flexible measuring tape, you can improvise. A piece of string, ribbon, or even a charging cable can work. Once you’ve wrapped it around your head, mark the point where the two ends meet. Then, lay the string flat against a ruler or a standard measuring tape to get your measurement.
Step-by-Step: How to Find Hat Size by Measuring Your Head
Follow these straightforward steps to get an accurate head circumference measurement:
1. Locate the Widest Part of Your Head
Stand in front of a mirror. You want to find the spot where your head is at its widest. This is usually about an inch or so above your eyebrows and ears. Think of it as going around the part of your head that would touch the inside of a hat if it were sitting correctly.
2. Wrap the Measuring Tape Around Your Head
Take your flexible measuring tape and place the end on your forehead, just above your eyebrow. Gently wrap the tape measure around the back of your head, ensuring it goes around the fullest part. The tape should be snug but not tight – you don’t want to indent your skin. It should feel like how you’d want a comfortable cap to fit.
- Key Point: Make sure the tape is level all the way around. Avoid tilting it up or down on one side.
3. Note Where the Tape Overlaps
Once the tape has made a full circle around your head, observe where the end of the tape overlaps with the starting point. This is your crown circumference.
4. Record Your Measurement
Using your pen and paper (or phone), write down the measurement. Most hat sizes are listed in inches or centimeters. Make sure you know which unit of measurement your chosen hat brand uses, or be prepared to convert.
- Pro Tip: Measure your head a couple of times to ensure accuracy. Sometimes, slight variations can occur, and averaging them can give you a more reliable number.
5. Convert to Hat Size (If Necessary)
This is where your head circumference measurement becomes useful for determining cap size. You’ll typically compare your measurement to a hat size chart. Different manufacturers might have slightly different sizing, but generally, there are standard conversions.
For example, here’s a common conversion from inches to general hat sizes:
| Head Circumference (Inches) | Head Circumference (cm) | General Hat Size | US Hat Size | UK Hat Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21.25 – 21.62 | 54 – 55 | Small (S) | 6.75 – 6.875 | S |
| 22.00 – 22.44 | 56 – 57 | Medium (M) | 7 – 7.125 | M |
| 22.83 – 23.23 | 58 – 59 | Large (L) | 7.375 – 7.5 | L |
| 23.62 – 24.02 | 60 – 61 | Extra Large (XL) | 7.625 – 7.75 | XL |
| 24.41 – 24.80 | 62 – 63 | XXL | 7.875 – 8 | XXL |
Note: This is a general guide. Always refer to the specific brand’s hat size chart for the most accurate fit.
Using a Cap Size Calculator
Many online retailers and hat manufacturers offer a cap size calculator. These tools can be incredibly helpful. Once you have your head circumference measurement (usually in inches or centimeters), you input it into the calculator, and it will suggest the corresponding hat size for that brand. This simplifies the process and helps avoid guesswork.
What to Consider for Proper Hat Fit
Beyond just the circumference, a few other factors contribute to proper hat fit:
Depth of the Crown
The “depth” of a hat refers to how low it sits on your head. Some hats have a shallower crown, sitting higher, while others are deeper and come down further. Your head shape and personal preference play a role here. If you have a larger head or a longer head shape, you might need a deeper crown for a comfortable fit.
- Testing Depth: If you can try on a hat, see if it comfortably covers your forehead without feeling like it’s going to pop off. It shouldn’t be so shallow that it feels like a skullcap unless that’s the style you’re going for.
Brim Width and Style
While not directly related to measuring your head, the brim of a baseball cap can affect perceived fit and comfort. A wider brim might feel more secure for some, while a narrower brim offers less shade but a sleeker look.
Adjustability Features
Many baseball caps come with adjustable features like:
- Strapback: A fabric or leather strap with a buckle or clasp at the back.
- Snapback: Plastic snaps at the back that allow for easy adjustment.
- Fitted: These caps have no adjustment feature and rely entirely on the accurate head circumference measurement for fit.
If you’re between sizes or unsure about the exact fit, a cap with an adjustable strap can offer more flexibility. This is a great way to achieve a customized feel.
Measuring Your Head for Different Types of Caps
While the core principle of measuring crown circumference remains the same, there are nuances for different cap styles:
Baseball Caps (Classic Fit)
As detailed above, wrap the tape around the widest part of your head, just above the ears and eyebrows. This is your standard measurement for most baseball caps.
Beanies and Knit Hats
For beanies and knit hats, you’ll still want to measure your crown circumference. However, these hats are often more forgiving due to their stretchy nature. A slightly snug fit is usually preferred for beanies to keep them from sliding down.
Fedoras, Trilbies, and Other Structured Hats
For more formal or structured hats, the measurement is similar, but you might also consider the “height” of the hat and how it sits on your head. Some styles are meant to sit further back, while others come down lower. It’s often best to try these on if possible or consult very specific hat measurement guides for those styles. For a baseball cap, the focus is primarily on the circumference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring
- Measuring too tightly: This will give you an artificially small measurement, leading to a cap that’s too tight.
- Measuring too loosely: Conversely, a loose measurement will result in a cap that’s too big and will slip.
- Not measuring in the right place: Focusing on the forehead only or going too high up the head can skew the results. Remember the widest part, usually just above the ears.
- Forgetting about hair: If you often wear your hair up in a bun or have particularly thick hair, consider measuring your head with your hair styled as you typically would wear it when wearing a cap. This can add a significant amount of circumference.
- Assuming your size: Sizes can vary between brands, and even within brands, different styles might fit differently. Don’t assume you’re always a “Medium” without re-measuring.
Interpreting Your Measurement and the Hat Size Chart
Once you have your head circumference measurement, you’ll use it to navigate a hat size chart. These charts are your best friend when shopping online.
- Look for the exact measurement: Find where your measurement falls on the chart. For example, if your head measures 22.5 inches, you’ll look for the closest number on the chart.
- When in doubt, go up: If your measurement falls between two sizes, it’s often recommended to go with the larger size. You can sometimes adjust a slightly larger cap down with its fitting mechanism, but you can’t easily make a smaller cap bigger.
- Check brand-specific charts: As mentioned, each brand can differ. A “Large” in one brand might be equivalent to an “XL” in another. Always try to find the specific size chart for the brand you are interested in. This is crucial for accurate baseball cap fitting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I measure my head if I don’t have a flexible tape measure?
A: You can use a piece of string, ribbon, or even a shoelace. Wrap it around your head at the widest point, mark where the ends meet, and then measure the length of the string against a ruler or a standard measuring tape.
Q: Can I just use my shirt size or pant size to estimate my hat size?
A: No, your shirt or pant size is not a reliable indicator of your hat size. Head shapes and sizes vary independently of body proportions. Always measure your head directly.
Q: How tight should the measuring tape be when I measure my head?
A: The tape should be snug, but not tight. It should feel comfortable, like how you’d want a hat to feel when it fits properly. You don’t want to leave an indentation on your skin.
Q: Does the amount of hair I have affect my hat size?
A: Yes, thick hair or hairstyles like braids or buns can add to your head circumference. If you regularly wear your hair in a way that adds volume, measure your head with your hair styled as you typically would when wearing a cap.
Q: What if my measurement is exactly between two sizes on the hat size chart?
A: It’s generally recommended to size up. Most baseball caps with adjustable straps can be tightened for a snugger fit, but there’s not much you can do to enlarge a cap that’s too small.
Q: How do I know if a baseball cap fits correctly?
A: A properly fitting baseball cap should sit comfortably on your head without being too tight or too loose. It shouldn’t wobble when you move your head. The brim should be positioned so it doesn’t obstruct your vision but provides adequate shade. The back of the cap should ideally cover your occipital bone (the bump at the back of your skull).
Q: Are all hat sizes the same across different brands?
A: No, hat sizes can vary significantly between brands. It’s always best to consult the specific hat size chart provided by the manufacturer or retailer of the cap you are interested in purchasing. This is essential for accurate baseball cap fitting.
Q: How often should I measure my head for a hat?
A: While head size doesn’t change dramatically for adults, if you haven’t bought a hat in a while, or if you’re noticing that your current hats don’t fit as well as they used to, it’s a good idea to re-measure. For children, whose heads grow more rapidly, more frequent measurement is advisable.
By following this comprehensive hat measurement guide, you can confidently measure your head and ensure you find the perfect fit for your next baseball cap. Mastering how to find hat size is a skill that will save you time, money, and the frustration of ill-fitting headwear, leading to true proper hat fit. Happy hat shopping!