Fur felt fedora sizes?

[Spunwell]

I have been wearing caps(not baseball) and crushable wool fedoras (bailey 7 1/2) for 4-5 years. I have recently decided to purchase a fur felt fedora for winter. I ordered a stetson bangor and a saxon. The bangor has arrived and I am surprised at how loose it fits. The front and back fit alright but I can insert an index finger on the right or left hand side of the hat. Is this normal?, do I need a long oval instead of a regular fit?, will the leather sweat band shrink enough over time to provide a comfortable fit? Also, how will I keep it on in a stiff wind? I'm sure this is a stupid question to most of you, but I could really benefit from your wisdom. Thanks

 

[4and1]

Welcome Spunwell.

Too loose is not going to be comfortable outdoors. I have been able to shrink fur felt hats, about a 1/2 size, by repeatedly soaking in water and drying. Another way to improve fits is padding under the sweatband with paper, but that will sometimes show as a bulge outside the hat.

But, since the hat is new, why not exchange it for a hat that fits?

 

[Spunwell]

Thanks I probably will return this hat for a different size. My problem is that the closest hat shop to me is two plus hours away in Atlanta or Chattanooga; therefore I usually buy online. Shipping charges back and forth really add up. I guess I need to make the trip and try on several different types and brands to see how they fit. It is still surprising how different the fit is between a Bailey wool felt 7 1/2 and a Stetson fur felt 7 1/2, I never would have guessed.

 

[avedwards]

A word of advice on Stetsons: they will shrink to accomadate your head. My Chatham was far too big, but I put foam behind the sweatband. After a few rain showers I removed it and I was fine. So it may be far too wide now but give it time. I too am a long oval, but I got the hat to fit by padding the sides more than the front and back and being patient until I'd worn it enough.