What to Do When Your Hat Feels Too Tight or Too Loose
Finding the perfect-fitting hat isn't always as simple as picking the right size. At JJ Hat Center, we offer adult hat sizes ranging from 20.5 inches to over 25.5 inches (52–65 cm), ensuring there's something for every head. Women typically wear hats in a standard medium size (about 21.5–22.5 inches / 55–57 cm), while men’s average head sizes fall between 22–23.25 inches (56–59 cm). For larger heads, we carry extended sizes like XXL (24.5–24.75 inches / 62–63 cm) and XXXL (25–25.5 inches / 64–65 cm).
Even with the correct size, hats can still fit improperly due to individual head shapes or material shrinkage over time. The result? A hat that slides around or feels uncomfortably tight. So, how can you fix that without having to exchange your favorite hat?
We’ve got two simple, effective solutions: hat stretchers and cork size-reducer inserts. These handy accessories help fine-tune the fit for maximum comfort and wearability.
How to Stretch a Hat That Feels Too Tight
Over time, factors like humidity, sweat, and rain can cause hats to shrink. A hat stretcher can help restore your hat to its original size—or even stretch it slightly larger—without damaging the material.
Hat stretchers work well with a wide variety of hats, including felt hats, straw hats, and even baseball caps.
How to use a hat stretcher:
- Place the stretcher snugly inside your hat.
- Gently turn the handle to apply outward pressure.
- Gradually turn the handle to stretch the hat to your desired size (never more than one full size—e.g., from 7 1/8 to 7 1/4).
If the fit is still snug, repeat the process until your hat feels just right.
How to Make a Hat Fit Tighter
If your hat feels a bit too loose, cork size-reducer strips offer a quick and easy fix—reducing the internal circumference by about 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
To apply:
- Place the cork strips behind the sweatband at the front and back (forehead and nape).
- For narrow or oval-shaped heads, try placing them on the sides instead.
- Make sure the ends of the strips point upward (like a smile) for best results.
Pro tip: When you buy a hat with an inner sweatband from our shop, we include two free cork strips with your order—so you’re always ready to achieve the perfect fit.
