Fit & Sizing Guide
How to measure, which size to pick, and how to tell when headgear is fitted correctly. Two minutes here saves a return later.
The short version
Measure around the head with a soft tape, about an inch above the eyebrows and around the widest point at the back. CLOUD headgear is one-size-fits-most with an adjustable fit across an 18"–26" head circumference — that covers nearly every youth and adult athlete. It should feel snug enough to stay put when you shake your head, without pressure points.
How to measure
- Use a soft measuring tape. A fabric tape from a sewing kit is ideal. No tape? Wrap a string around the head, mark the overlap, measure the string against a ruler.
- Position it correctly. Run the tape around the head roughly one inch above the eyebrows and just above the ears, crossing the widest part at the back of the skull. That's the line the headgear sits on.
- Keep it snug, not tight. The tape should sit flat without compressing hair or skin.
- Measure twice. If the readings differ, take the larger one.
- Measure with game-day hair. A ponytail, braids, or a bun change the number. Measure the way the athlete will actually wear their hair to play.
Size chart
| Size | Head circumference | Typically fits |
|---|---|---|
| One Size (Youth / Adult) | 18" – 26" | Nearly all athletes, youth through adult |
For the smallest players (roughly ages 4–7, head circumference in the 14"–16" range), a smaller youth headband is coming to the lineup. If the standard size doesn't fit your child, contact us and we'll get you into the right one.
What correct fit looks like
Fitted correctly: sits level about an inch above the eyebrows · stays in place when the head shakes side to side · full contact around forehead, temples, and back of head · comfortable after 10 minutes · doesn't interfere with vision.
Fitted incorrectly: slides down over the eyes or rides up · shifts during movement · gaps at the temples or back of the head · leaves a deep red mark or causes a headache · the athlete keeps adjusting it during play.
The 60-second fit check
- Put it on and set it level, about an inch above the eyebrows.
- Shake the head side to side, then nod firmly. It shouldn't move.
- Run a finger around the inside edge — consistent contact all the way around, no open gaps.
- Look up, down, and to both sides. Vision should be completely clear.
- Wear it for ten minutes. No pressure points, no headache, no constant adjusting.
If it fails any of these, try adjusting the fit before deciding the product doesn't work.
Sizing a whole team
Coaches and equipment managers: measure every athlete before ordering rather than estimating from age or grade. A practical approach that takes about fifteen minutes: set up a measuring station at the first practice, one person measures while one records names and numbers, have athletes wear game-day hair, and order from the recorded numbers with a few spares.
Ordering 15 or more? Team pricing and custom colors are available, and we can help you work through the roster.
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure head circumference for flag football headgear?
Wrap a soft measuring tape around the head about one inch above the eyebrows, just above the ears, crossing the widest point at the back of the skull. Keep the tape snug and flat, and measure with the athlete's hair styled the way they'll wear it to play.
What size range does CLOUD headgear fit?
One size fits most, with an adjustable fit across an 18–26 inch head circumference — nearly all youth and adult athletes. A smaller band for the youngest players (14–16 inch) is coming.
How tight should protective headgear be?
Snug enough that it doesn't shift when the head moves, loose enough that it causes no pressure points or headaches after ten minutes of wear.
Does hair affect sizing?
Yes. Ponytails, braids, and buns change head circumference measurably. Measure with the hairstyle the athlete will actually wear to play.
Correct fit is essential to how protective headgear performs. No protective equipment can prevent all injuries, including concussions. Follow all manufacturer fitting instructions and any requirements set by your league or state association.