Adjust Your Hat

Hat Stretcher and Cork Inserts: When Your Hat Is Too Tight or Too Loose

Adult hats come in a wide range of sizes. We offer models from 52 to 65 cm, so everyone can find the right fit. Women’s hats are often available in a one-size range of 55–57 cm, while men’s sizes typically range from 56 to 59 cm. Extended sizes start at 62 cm and include XXL (62–63 cm) and XXXL (64–65 cm).

Because every head shape is unique, a hat may not always fit perfectly—even if you’ve chosen the correct size. It may feel too tight or become loose over time. So what can you do in this case?

Fortunately, there are two simple and effective solutions: a hat stretcher for hats that feel too tight, and cork inserts for hats that are slightly too loose. Both options help improve fit and overall comfort.

How Can I Stretch My Hat?

External factors such as humidity, sweat, and rain can cause hats to shrink over time. A hat stretcher can help restore the original fit in just a few steps.

It can be used on a variety of materials, including felt, straw, and even some caps—making it a versatile tool for maintaining your favorite headwear.

How it works:

• Insert the hat stretcher into the hat and gently turn the handle.
• Heat clean water in a pot until it begins to steam, then reduce the heat to allow steady steam.
• Hold the hat over the steam and evenly expose the inner band area.
• Gradually turn the handle to expand the hat to your desired size.
• Do not stretch the hat by more than 1 cm (e.g., from 57 to 58 cm).
• Allow the hat to cool and dry for 20–30 minutes before removing the stretcher.

If the hat is still too tight, repeat the process until the desired fit is achieved.

How Can I Make My Hat Smaller?

If your hat feels too loose, cork inserts offer a quick and easy solution. They can reduce the size by up to 1 cm.

Place or attach the cork strips underneath the inner sweatband at the front and back of the hat (forehead and back of the head area). For longer, narrower head shapes, we recommend placing the inserts along the sides instead.

Make sure the ends of the inserts point upward (like a smiling shape) for the best fit.

Good to know: When you purchase a hat from our shop, you’ll receive a free pair of cork inserts with any hat that includes an inner band.