If you're anything like me, the simple act of buying a hat, especially a sunhat, can feel like an impossible quest. For years, I've faced the frustration of trying on countless hats, only to find them too small, too tight, or just plain uncomfortable. It's a common struggle for those of us with larger heads, and I'm thrilled to share my journey and the practical solutions I've discovered to help you find your perfect fit. This guide is especially for those seeking comfortable and stylish sunhats for big heads.
I've always had a head that measures about 64cm around. This might not sound like much, but in the world of hats, it's a significant size. Most "extra large" hats on the market barely reach 60cm, leaving a painful gap between what's available and what actually fits. This isn't just about sunhats; it's been a lifelong battle. From school caps that perched precariously on my head to crash helmets that squeezed my temples until I got a headache, and even finding spectacles that didn't pinch, the struggle has been real.
I remember countless times trying on a hat, pulling it down, only for it to feel like a vice grip. It makes you feel self-conscious, like you're wearing a child's hat or something completely ill-suited for your frame. There's nothing worse than wanting to protect myself from the sun or simply complete an outfit, only to be met with the uncomfortable reality that most standard sizes just don't cater to larger head circumferences. This constant disappointment fueled my determination to find real solutions, not just compromises. I often felt like I was part of a "big brain club" where any hat I bought was on its last possible size setting and still tight as can be.
After years of commiserating with others who shared my "big head" predicament – feeling like we were all part of some exclusive club where every hat was on its last possible size setting and still tight AF – I began to actively seek out specific brands and strategies. It wasn't just about finding any hat; it was about finding one that fit properly and didn't make me look or feel ridiculous. Here's what I found:
My first lucky break came a few years back when I stumbled upon a Panama hat from Rebel Sport. While it was still a bit snug, it was a significant improvement over anything else I had tried. It gave me a glimmer of hope that larger sizes do exist, even if they're hard to find.
I also discovered a fantastic local New Zealand company called Hills Hats. They seemed to specialize in a wider range of sizes, offering options that were genuinely designed for larger heads. It was a revelation to find a brand that understood the need for proper sizing beyond the typical "one size fits most" approach. Their commitment to quality and fit made a huge difference in my search for comfortable headwear.
The internet, as it turns out, is a treasure trove for niche products. While initially skeptical, I started exploring online marketplaces with a keen eye for specific measurements and customer reviews. This led me to some interesting finds, particularly when I was looking for something a bit different from the traditional sunhat.
One particular style that caught my attention was the docker cap, also known as a skullcap or retro sailor cap. These brimless hats offer a unique aesthetic and often come with adjustable straps, making them more forgiving for larger heads. I specifically found a great option, the "Fashion Men Docker Cap Skullcap Retro Sailor Cap Beanie Hats Men Women Bucket Cap Brimless Hat Skullcap Bonnet Dad Caps Unisex blue-One Size," which promised a more accommodating fit. It was a refreshing change from the usual tight-fitting caps I'd encountered.
This particular cap, which I found through the WholeCustomDesign product page, was a game-changer. It's designed to be unisex and features an adjustable strap at the back, which is absolutely crucial for ensuring a comfortable, custom-like fit. The material felt durable yet soft, and the brimless design meant I didn't have to worry about the brim being too narrow or misshapen on my head. It truly felt like a hat designed with actual head sizes in mind, offering both style and much-needed comfort. I was so impressed with the selection and focus on unique designs on their homepage, making it easier to find suitable headwear.
While exploring other options, I also learned that sites like Wish.com sometimes carry surprisingly large sizes, though it's always important to check reviews and product descriptions carefully. The key is to be persistent and specific in your search terms, looking for actual measurements rather than just vague "XL" labels.
For those who truly struggle or want something perfectly unique, I discovered that custom-made hats are an incredible option. I got in touch with a small business called Retrolicious Baby on Instagram, and they, along with other similar small businesses, offer bespoke hat-making services. This means you can get a hat tailored precisely to your head circumference and style preferences. While it might be a slightly larger investment, the comfort and confidence of a perfectly fitting, custom-designed hat are absolutely priceless. It’s an ideal solution for anyone whose head size falls outside even the most generous ready-to-wear options, ensuring you get exactly what you need and deserve in a hat.
Finding the right hat, especially sunhats for big heads, doesn't have to be a frustrating experience. Here are my top tips and advice, refined through years of personal trial and error: