What is your hat size?
FOLLOW THESE EASY STEPS TO GET IT RIGHT
Shoes and hats have one thing in common - getting your size right makes all the difference. If it is too large, it will flop onto your ears and you look like a child playing dress-ups. Too small and it will hurt you, and will sit on top of your head, making you appear foolish. In both situations, the hat will fly off in any wind and chasing your hat, is downright annoying.
The only way to work it out is to measure your head, and it is easy.
Place a string or tape measure around your head 1cm above your ears, where you would wear your hat. Measure the length with a ruler. Write it down, and then measure it again. Simple as that.
When ordering your Panama you order a size 1cm larger than your head, to allow for shrinkage. What no-one will tell you is that ALL Panama hats will shrink a little. The hats wick moisture away from your head, evaporating it and cooling you down. When you take your hat off it will dry out, and in the process shrink a little. It may take a year, but it will shrink. For example, if you are a size 59 (L), you will order a size 60 (XL).
If you are particularly sweaty and will be using your hat in harsh tropical environments, adding a little more room is a good idea.
| Hat Size | Head Measurement |
| Small | 54 - 55 cm |
| Medium | 56 - 57 cm |
| Large | 58 - 59 cm |
| XL | 60 - 61 cm |
| XXL | 62 - 63 cm |
| XXXL | 64 - 65 cm |
People who are regular hat wearers will know their size. It is also possible to read the size off an old hat, but every manufacturer has a different system, and it can be misleading. If it specifies a measurement (not S-M-L-XL) then it is a good guide (refer to the chart below). So take your time, measure your head and write it down.
When we receive your order, we will personally follow-up and confirm that we have your sizing right. 99% of the time, it works out perfectly. If your head is a very unusual shape, then we will resolve that before shipping.
Now you are ready to buy a great hat.
If you are still unsure, you can send me an email or book in for an online fitting.
Comments on this post (6)
Hello,
I am 5’9 and my head circumference is 21.5 inches, which converts to 54.61 cm.
I like the Australian Panama hat but am a little worried that the recommended size of 1 cm larger gives me a 55.5 cm hat and this is the lower end of your medium range – getting me a hat that may be way too big for me.
Should I still get medium?
Thanks
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Truffaux Hatmakers replied:
Hi Eduardo – leave it up to me and i will ensure we send the right sized hat. With the Australian, there are often 55.5cm smalls on the shelf. All will be well – just order the small and i will sort it outRegardsOskaSent from my iPhone
— Eduardo
I am 5’9", with a 59cm head. I’ve worn resistol and Stetson cowboy hats all my life, but wanna try a Panama. Any suggestions for my head and height?
———
Truffaux Hatmakers replied:
Hi Jim
Could you send me a photo of your face – then I will know what is right for you. I assume you like a larger stronger hat? What do you like on my website?
Warm Regards
Oska
— Jim Pharaoh
I’m thinking of ordering the Cuenca King based on your previous recommendation. My hat size in a felt hat has been a pretty solid 7 3/8. What size Cuenca King would you recommend I order? Scott
———
Truffaux Hatmakers replied:
Hi Scott – you are a 59 – so I would want to ship you a 60, to give you a little room for shrinkage. So order an Xl, then all will be well
Warm Regards
Oska Truffaux
<https://www.truffaux.com/blogs/panama-hat-advice/ask-the-panama-hat-guy> <https://www.truffaux.com/blogs/panama-hat-advice/ask-the-panama-hat-guy> <https://www.truffaux.com/blogs/panama-hat-advice/ask-the-panama-hat-guy>— Scott
Hi Oska. Just ordered a hat and wanted to get the size right. Have measured several times as instructed and have come up with 55cm. Thank you for all the help.
Jim Reed
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Truffaux Hatmakers replied:
Hey Jim – the golden fino will shrink very little, so I will ship you a 55.5 and all will be well. I will attach the gold/b;ack safari ribbon as we have discussed. Then all will be well
Warm Regards
Oska Truffaux
<https://www.truffaux.com/blogs/panama-hat-advice/ask-the-panama-hat-guy> <https://www.truffaux.com/blogs/panama-hat-advice/ask-the-panama-hat-guy> <https://www.truffaux.com/blogs/panama-hat-advice/ask-the-panama-hat-guy>— Jim Reed
I was hoping to get personal advice for my face shape. And height/body type. 6’3/220lbs. Head circumference is 53 cm
The two hats I was considering are Ironside Fedora,
And The Ironside. Would either of those work for me?
Not sure how to add photo in this message box, but can send one in email if I know which address to send to.
Thank you
———
Truffaux Hatmakers replied:
Could you send me a selfie and then we will know what works – this is the email
Warm Regards
oska
— Monte
If you have an email list, please add me.
— Eric J. Ellman