Hard Hat Sizing — It’s Simple (Hint: It’s the Suspension)
We’re constantly getting asked about hard hat sizing — through chat 💬, phone calls 📱, and social media. Here’s the deal: it’s super simple. All you need to know is this. SUSPENSION.
📖 Let’s start from the very beginning…
Every hard hat comes with some form of a suspension. A suspension is the piece connected to the underside of the hard hat — it’s what rests on your head. In other words, the suspension is the headband or headpiece.
The purpose of the suspension is to keep the hard hat from laying directly on your head; it suspends the shell above the head. This way, in the event of a hit or fall, the suspension absorbs most of the shock instead of the wearer receiving the full impact. Think of it like shocks on a car — the suspension spreads and absorbs force so the helmet protects you better.
👷 How Suspensions Fit
For a suspension to absorb impact properly, it needs to fit correctly — not too loose, not too tight. Most suspensions include adjustable closures so one helmet can fit a range of head sizes. Some closure designs are better than others (think Velcro vs. double-sided tape).
To explain briefly: pin lock uses a simple pin-and-hole set up; glide lock tightens by pulling the strap so ridged teeth hold it in place; and the most popular is the ratchet suspension, which uses a small knob you turn to dial in a smooth, precise fit. If you need accessories, we carry a range of suspensions and accessories.
📏 Sizing — The Long and Short of It
Most hard hats don’t have fixed sizes like S/M/L because the suspension is adjustable. A typical adult suspension adjusts roughly from 6.5 to 8 inches (circumference measurement of the inside of the suspension). For an accurate measurement method, see our guide: How to measure your head for hard hats.