Finding the right hat isn't always as simple as picking a style you like. Fit, head size, brim width, sun protection, packability, and how you plan to wear your hat all matter.
We've answered some of the questions our customers ask most often to help you find a hat that fits comfortably and works for your needs.
Hat Sizing & Fit
How do I measure my head for a hat?
Use a soft measuring tape and wrap it around your head where the hat will naturally sit—generally just above your eyebrows and ears. Keep the tape comfortably snug, not tight.
Compare your measurement in centimeters with the sizing information listed on each product page. Because sizing can vary by manufacturer and style, we recommend shopping by your actual head measurement rather than relying only on labels such as Small, Medium, or One Size.
What if I'm between hat sizes?
In most cases, choose the larger size. A slightly roomy hat can often be adjusted with an internal sizing system or hat size reducer.
Check the individual product page to see whether the hat has an adjustable drawstring, elastic band, toggle, or other sizing feature.
What does "one size fits most" mean?
One size does not literally fit everyone. Generally, OSFM women's hats are 57 cm, and OSFM men's hats are 59 cm.
The actual circumference can vary by manufacturer and style, which is why we list measurements in centimeters whenever possible. Check the Best Fit measurement on the product page before ordering.
I have a small head. Do you carry small-size adult hats?
Yes! Petite hats are one of our specialties.
We carry women's hats specifically designed for smaller heads, including styles with smaller circumferences and, in many cases, proportions better suited to petite head and face sizes.
We also carry men's hats in small sizes.
Do you carry hats for larger heads?
Yes.
We carry women's hats in larger sizes, including Large and XL, and men's hats in sizes up to XXL and XXXL
Check each product's actual centimeter measurement to find the best fit.
Can I make a hat smaller?
Often, yes.
Many of our hats include adjustable drawstrings, elastic bands, toggles, or other built-in sizing systems. You can often make hats without an adjustment slightly smaller by placing hat sizing tape under the inner sweatband.
Why does a hat fit around my head but still look or feel too big?
Hat fit involves more than circumference.
Crown height, crown shape, brim width, and the hat's overall scale can affect how it sits and looks. Someone with a petite frame may find a wide-brimmed hat overwhelming, even if the circumference fits properly.
Choosing the Right Hat
How do I know which hat style will look best on me?
Start with fit, then consider your face shape, proportions, how much sun coverage you need, and where you'll wear the hat.
Different crown shapes and brim widths can change a hat's visual proportions considerably.
What brim width should I choose?
It depends on the look and coverage you want.
As a general guide:
- 1–2 inches: small or narrow brim
- 2–3 inches: medium brim
- 3–4 inches: wide brim
- 4–5 inches: large/wide brim
- 6+ inches: extra-wide brim
Wider isn't automatically better. Consider your body proportions, activity, wind conditions, and how much sun coverage you need.
I need a hat for a specific activity or problem. Where should I start?
We've organized hats by common needs and styles.
Whether you need a hat that stays on in the wind, accommodates a ponytail, fits a small head, protects your neck, packs for vacation, repels insects, or even floats, you can shop by the feature that matters most to you.
Sun Protection & Outdoor Features
What does UPF 50+ mean?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. A UPF rating indicates how effectively a fabric blocks ultraviolet radiation.
When a hat is labeled UPF 50+, the rated fabric blocks at least 98% of UV radiation. This rating generally refers to the overall hat. Individual portions of the hat may carry the rating.
Does a UPF 50+ hat protect my entire face and neck?
Not necessarily.
UPF describes the material's UV protection; actual coverage also depends on the hat's design and brim dimensions.
A wider brim generally provides more physical shade than a narrow brim. If maximum coverage matters, pay attention to both the UPF rating and the listed brim width. For example, a UPF 50+ rated baseball cap will not cover your whole face, ears, or neck.
Are mesh crown hats UPF 50+?
It depends on the hat.
Some hats combine a UPF-rated brim or crown fabric with mesh ventilation panels that allow airflow but provide less UV protection than solid fabric. This is often a trade-off: better cooling for less UV protection.
What type of hat is best for windy conditions?
Look for a hat with a chin strap, chin cord, or secure adjustable fit.
A well-fitting hat is your first defense against wind, while a chin strap adds extra security for boating, hiking, beach trips, gardening, and other windy activities.
Attachable/removable chin cord is available for hats that do not come with a built-in chin strap.
Do you carry hats with special features?
Yes. Depending on the style, you'll find hats with features such as chin straps, ponytail openings, mesh ventilation, neck flaps, water-resistant fabrics, evaporative cooling, insect-repellent treatments, adjustable sizing, reversible designs, and even floating construction.
Packable & Travel Hats
Can I pack my hat in a suitcase?
Some hats can be packed; others should not be crushed or folded.
We identify the recommended packing method on individual product pages whenever possible.
What does "packable" mean?
"Packable" doesn't mean every hat can be folded the same way or crushed.
Depending on its construction, a hat may be designed to:
Follow the packing instructions for your particular hat. Using the wrong packing method can damage even a hat described as packable.
What are the best hats for travel?
Look for a hat that combines the features your trip requires: packability, appropriate sun protection, comfortable fit, lightweight construction, and—if you'll be somewhere windy—a chin strap.
Can I pack a straw hat?
Some straw hats are packable, and some are not.
"Straw" describes many different materials and constructions. Always check the Packability information on the individual product page before folding or crushing a straw hat.
Orders & Shipping
How quickly will my order ship?
We process most orders promptly during regular business days. Our Shipping Information page includes current processing times, shipping methods, estimated delivery times, and free-shipping requirements.
Do you offer expedited shipping?
We display available expedited shipping options at checkout for your destination.
Please remember that carrier transit time is separate from order processing time.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship to many international destinations. Available shipping methods, costs, duties, and estimated delivery times depend on the destination.
Look for available shipping destinations on the cart page under "Estimate shipping."
How can I check my order?
Log in to your customer account using the email address associated with your order. We'll email you a login code—no password required.
Returns, Exchanges & Store Credit
What if my hat doesn't fit?
That's exactly why we offer an extended 45-day return and exchange period.
You may request an exchange, store credit, or a refund to your original payment method on all eligible items.
Can I receive store credit instead of a refund?
Yes.
When submitting your return request, enter STORE CREDIT in the Note box. We'll apply the eligible return value to your SetarTrading account for a future purchase.
Who pays for return shipping?
If you purchased our $2.98 Unlimited Returns & Exchanges protection, we cover return shipping on eligible returns.
If you didn't purchase the protection, you may request our $7.50 flat-rate return label or return the merchandise using your preferred carrier.
International customers are responsible for their return shipping.
Still Need Help?
Can you help me choose a hat?
Absolutely.
If you're unsure about sizing, fit, brim width, sun protection, packability, or which style would work best for you, contact us. Providing your head measurement in centimeters and telling us what you're looking for will help us make better recommendations.
We're a family-owned hat retailer, and helping customers find a hat that actually fits and meets their needs is an important part of what we do.
Phone: 888.412.2183