How to Measure for a Fedora

Finding the right fit is the foundation of any great hat. At Lock & Co., our fedoras are sized with precision and each one is hand-blocked using traditional wooden forms to ensure the most flattering and comfortable fit.

Here’s how to measure your head for a fedora, whether you’re ordering online or preparing for an in-store visit.

Our Guide to Measuring

We recommend using a flexible dressmaker’s tape for most accurate result.

Step-by-Step
  1. Position the tape just above the eyebrows and ears, the tape should sit where the base of the hat will naturally sit.
  2. Wrap around the widest part of your head, keeping the tape level and snug but not tight.
  3. Take the measurement in centimetres or inches, noting it to the nearest millimetre or eighth of an inch.
  4. Double-check - especially if you are between sizes, or buying for the first time.

Not sure how it should feel? Read our guide: How Should a Fedora Fit?

The Lock & Co. Approach to Fit


Is a Top Hat Comfortable to Wear?

Yes. A well-fitted fedora should feel secure but never tight. Think of it like a fine pair of shoes: structured enough to hold its form, yet soft enough to move with you.

Signs of a perfect fit:

  • The hat sits evenly and doesn't shift when you move.
  • There's no pressure or pinching around the temples.
  • It feels balanced - neither floating nor forcing its way on.

Is a Fedora Adjustable or Fitted?

Most Lock & Co. fedoras are structured and fitted, rather than adjustable. However:

  • Some casual or travel-friendly styles may feature an internal drawstring or band.
  • Hat tape can be applied under the sweatband to fine-tune the fit by a few millimetres.

If you’re unsure which style is right for your head shape or lifestyle, our team is happy to assist, whether online or in-store.

Explore Further

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