Not all trucker hats or baseball-style caps will fit you perfectly. Luckily, you can buy a hat and stretch it out if it’s not the right size. Figuring out how to stretch out a hat requires a little education about what the “right fit” really means.

How To Stretch Out A Hat If It's Too Small 

Whether you are into hiking trucker hats or a cowboy hat, stretching and shaping are a good option. If you know how to stretch out a hat, it can give you a lot more options when purchasing a hat.

Below are three steps to make your hat fit perfectly.

Step 1:

First, you’ll want to buy a hat, like this stylish olive green snapback, that fits right before purchasing—even if you plan to stretch it.

Step 2:

Wear it for several weeks before you make any adjustments. Wearing a hat will naturally stretch it out and you’ll get comfortable with the fit. This will give you time to notice if it feels too tight, too loose or if there is no need to make adjustments at all.

Step 3:

If it doesn’t quite fit, you’ll need to assemble some hat stretching tools. Use a spray bottle with water and a blow dryer. Spritz a wide spray from the water bottle, but don’t soak it. Get into the band and crown, but do not spray the rim or brim. When it’s damp, apply a blow dryer until your hat is slightly moist. Then put onto your head and wear it until it dries. The hat will conform to the shape of your head. Before you know it, your hiking trucker hat will fit you perfectly.

Alternative Step:

Another option is to steam your hat until it loosens up and then use the blow dryer. Simply boil water on the stovetop till you have a nice amount of steam (or use a kettle) and apply this moisture to the hat just like you would in step 3. Blow dry, put on your head and let it dry naturally through exposure to the air.

Other Options:

If you want to try a few other creative methods, you can try a device called a Hat-Jack that will help stretch your hats. You’ll still want to use water or steam, and you’ll still need to wear the hat long enough to have it conform to your head.

Another option is to find a soccer ball and stretch your hat over it. Leave overnight and you’ll get a nice, even stretch before you put it back on. As with other methods, using water or steam beforehand to loosen the fibers is recommended. This is a low cost option. If you want a quicker fix and live near a haberdashery, you can take your hat in for a professional stretching.