Hat Size Chart

Our knit hat size chart will help you nail your next knit project. The below head circumference measurements can be used as general sizing guidelines in situations where you can’t take a precise measurement (for instance, when knitting a hat or headband as a gift).

Most knit hats have a bit of stretch, so they can fit more than one head size. For instance, our Marathon Ribbed beanie is so stretchy, the standard size will work for Adult Small, Medium, and even some Large heads!

A few recommendations:

  • The average adult head circumference is 22-23 inches (56-58cm).
  • Child head sizes vary more than adults. When in doubt, choose the larger size. Even if it’s a little too large, they’ll grow into it.
  • Remember most hat patterns have a negative ease. This means the circumference of the hat while knitting will likely be a little smaller than the actual head circumference.
Hat SizeCircumference (in)Circumference (cm)Hat Length (in)Hat Length (cm)
Newborn13.5 inches34cm5 inches13cm
Infant (3 mos)16 inches41cm5 ½ inches14cm
Infant (6 mos)17 inches43cm6 ½ inches16.5cm
Infant (12 mos)18 inches46cm6 ½ inches16.5cm
Child (2 yrs)19 inches48cm7 inches18cm
Child (3-5 yrs)20 inches51cm7 inches18cm
Child (6-10 yrs)21 inches53cm7 ½ inches19cm
Adult Small22 inches56cm8 inches20.5cm
Adult Medium23 inches58cm8 inches20.5cm
Adult Large24 inches61cm8 ½ inches21.5cm
knit hat size chart featuring recommended head circumferences and hat lengths

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