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Small head size in adults

A small head is usually just a small head. Here is what counts as small, and how to find hats that fit.

Hat size calculator

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Enter your head measurement to see your size in every system.

What counts as a small head for an adult?

In the ANSUR II survey, 5 in 100 men measured under 54.8 cm and 5 in 100 women under 53.2 cm. A head under about 54 cm (21 ¼ in) is small for an adult, which is a fitted 6 ¾ or less.

Is a small head a health concern?

For most adults, no. Head size runs in families. Doctors pay attention to a small head together with other signs or a history of developmental problems. If you have concerns, ask your doctor.

Finding hats for a small head

  • Fitted caps: 6 ½, 6 ⅝ and 6 ¾. Youth fitted caps go down to 6.
  • Stretch-fit caps: XS/S or Youth. Richardson R-Flex XS/S fits 53 to 55 cm and Flexfit Youth 52 to 56 cm.
  • Letter sizes: XS and S. A Kangol S fits 54 to 55 cm.
  • Adjustable caps: tighten the strap fully and add a foam sizing strip.
  • Youth sizes often fit well and cost less.

How to measure your head

  1. 1 Use a soft tape measure, or a string and a ruler.
  2. 2 Wrap it around your head where the hat will sit: about 1 cm (⅜ in) above your ears and across the middle of your forehead.
  3. 3 Keep the tape level and snug, not tight. Do not pull it in.
  4. 4 Read the number where the tape overlaps. Measure two or three times and use the largest value.
  5. 5 Type the number into the calculator, or find it in the chart.
How to measure

Frequently asked questions

What is a small head size for a woman?

Under about 53 cm (20 ⅞ in).

What is a small head size for a man?

Under about 55 cm (21 ⅝ in).

Can adults wear youth hats?

Yes. New Era youth fitted caps run from 6 to 6 ¾ (48 to 54 cm), which fits many adults with a small head.

Related charts

All charts