My search for a Tilley Hat and sizing issues

[@Jez2008UK]

I wonder whether people buy these too small generally. I purchased one on impulse today, didn't do any research and just went with what the sales assistant said and for my 22.75" head I purchased a 7 5/8 Outback. According to Tilley, I should have gone for a 7 1/4, but according to the following text (I found online) I feel my hat fits these criteria perfectly - it feels very comfortable and I can do everything they say in the text below; "The Tilley Hat fits more comfortably than other hats. It’s designed to be worn low on your head and slightly loose. It should be held on by gravity, not by painful pressure on your forehead! For the proper fit, you should be able to easily insert two fingers, flat, between the middle of your forehead and the front of the Hat. The Hat should be loose enough that you can rotate it to the left and right, and lift it up and down, without friction on your forehead. When it’s windy, use the cord! "

[@tonimusgrave9530]

I have been looking at these hats for a long time now and am so glad you made this video. I will not buy mine online now that I see different styles run different sizes. If I can’t buy one at a store in person I won’t buy it. It’s too much money to be looking forward to a lifetime hat and it not fit....thank you so much!!

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

Good decision my friend. You need to try these hats on in person first. I can assure you that they are excellent quality but different styles do run n different sizes. So glad it helped. ATB, Des

[@tonimusgrave9530]

21st Century Caveman I found a wilderness hiking store not far away that carries several Tilley hats. So so glad I tried them on in person because the one I was going to order they had in the store. I tried on the one I measured using the instructions on the Tilley website and that size was too big. Thankful they had more to try on...ended up going down two sizes. Such good advice to find a place to try them on in person. Thanks again! Oh by the way I LOVE my Tilley hat!

[@PrepperPotpourri]

My husband loves his Tilley hat. He has had it for years and it is his favorite fishing hat.

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

Hello there. I'm really looking forward to making my first purchase - just need to decide on which model to go for. Thanks for dropping by. Best wishes, Des

[@daleskidmore1685]

All but a couple of my hats are Akubra and I always add 1cm to my head size, which can be taken up by using draught excluder tape on the inside of the sweat band. Better too loose than a good fit. Would you like some Dr Potters Famous Hat Glue with your purchase, Sir?

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

Great idea with the draught excluder tape - wouldn't have thought of that one Ade.

[@daleskidmore1685]

Akubra do hats upto 63, even 65cm and they include the draught excluder strips in with the hat. They are made from rabbit fur and I have had no problems with shrinkage, like I have had with English made fur felts. Very waterproof to.

[@DerekLand]

I had the same problem! After watching the How To Size video, I ordered two 7 5/8 of the same model, one fit great (but it was for a family member, alas), but mine was too big. Sent it back. Ordered one size smaller, and it was so tight I couldn't get it on. Sent it back. Ordered a third but in a different model, and it was a little small (one finger instead of two) and fed up I asked for a refund, which was ignored, so I stretched it up as best I could. It's now at least wearable. Support got slower and slower and in the end Tilley just refused to even respond. Their customer service is great until you actually buy something, then it tanks quickly. Well made hats no doubt, but bad quality control on sizing and very poor service.

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

Hiya Derek. That's a really interesting comment buddy. I think it goes to show that no one can afford to go off Tilley's sizing guide and you need to actually try the things on in a store before making your purchase. Also, despite their reputation for producing good quality products, no one can automatically assume that this also equates to their customer service provision. The only way to evidence this is to test it as you have rightly done. So sorry to hear that your experience was so negative. Kind regards, Des

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

It pisses me off that their sizing is inconsistent. I am trying to order a couple on sale, online, and they are not returnable. If the sizing isn't accurate, how are you supposed to buy online without trying? Thanks for doing this video.

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

I hear what you're saying and I was actually quite surprised myself. One size in one model does not necessarily equate to the right size in another model. Strange but true!

[@susiepittman601]

I have also found this to be true. I've learned how to tighten them up with the back head strap but I wish they could address this.

[@_Patrick_]

when you smile, i smile too friend

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

Have a blessed day where you are my friend. Best wishes to you and yours. Des

[@wayofthehike]

Did you end up buying a Tilley yet? I bought a T3 and like it very much. Not quite as stylish but very practical all rounder.

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

Hiya buddy. Still hoping to pick up a bargain in a sale. The T3 is a great hat and I wouldn't mind one myself actually (may actually end up being my 2nd Tilley). However, first choice I think is a Hemp hat with a wide brim. Will update soon. Take care, Des

[@wayofthehike]

21st Century Caveman that is a good choice. I got the hemp has as well and it is superb. Very nice color and fabric and I expect would be well suited for U.K. outdoors.

[@fortyoneshades]

@@21stcenturycaveman33 I've read the hemp hats fade rather quickly. Have you experienced this?

[@tonymatthews445]

£63 made me smart a bit tbh, but I guess it would be a hat for life.

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

Here's hoping! ATB, Des

[@susiepittman601]

Gravity is supposed to hold this on. It should be loose. You can tighten it with straps.

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

Hello there and thanks for watching. Gravity will of course play it's part until another natural phenomenon appears - wind. But, if you have to wear straps to keep it on your head in anything other than windy conditions then surely logic suggests it's too loose? Each to their own of course. ATB, Des

[@susiepittman601]

I don't know how he didn't buy one.

[@Sirgromulus]

You'll be alright.

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

;?) Have a good one, Des