June 12, 2024

The Complete Ring Size Guide

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Whether you’re shopping for your special someone's engagement ring, searching for a badass wedding band, or simply treating yourself to a slick new accessory, getting the right fit for your ring is priority numero uno. 

So, before you head off on your search, it’s important to nail down the exact ring size you’re looking for. In this complete ring size guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about finding your ring size, from how to measure your ring size at home to achieving the right fit and feel to choosing the perfect material for your ring.  

International Ring Sizing Chart

We craft all Manly Bands rings in standard US sizes. But fear not, you international jet-setter. If you need to convert your ring size from a different country, we’ve got you covered. Check out our very official international ring sizing chart here

Four Ways to Find Your Ring Size at Home

Want to skip the pushy jewelry store salesman and find your ring size at home? Well, today is your lucky day! Here are four handy methods you can use to nail down your ring size from the comfort of your living room sofa. 

Pro Tip: it’s best to measure your ring size when your hands are cold, not after a workout or a hard day on the job when your fingers are more likely to be swollen. 

Method 1: Order the Manly Sizer

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The best and most accurate way to find your ring size is to use our FREE Manly Sizer. You can get a free physical sizer shipped right to your door in just a few days. This nifty little sizer covers the whole Manly finger spectrum, with sizes 5 - 15 in whole and half sizes and sizes 15-20 in whole sizes only. Note: sizes 5-7 are 6mm wide, and sizes 7.5-20 are 8mm wide. 

How to Use the Manly Ring Sizer

  1. Pick a size: Pop your desired size out of the ring sizer (you can eyeball it at first).

  2. Try it on: Find the smallest size that fits over your knuckle without straining.

  3. Test it: Wave your hand in the air like you just don’t care, and see if it stays in place. If it does, you’ve found your standard size. If not, keep trying. You should have to twist it a bit to get it off your finger, otherwise it is too big. 

  4. Wear it: Wear your chosen size around for an entire day to make sure you’ve found the perfect fit and feel. If it slips off when you wash your hands, go a half-size smaller. If your finger gets red, go a half-size bigger.

More of a visual guy? Here’s a quick tutorial on how to use our Manly Sizer

Method 2: Use our printable ring sizer

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Short on time or just eager to check your wedding band purchase off the wedding to-do list? Fear not, my friend. There’s a convenient and simple solution to help you find your ring size–our free printable ring sizer. All you’ll need is a printer, a set of scissors, and a can-do attitude, and you’ll have your ring size in minutes. 

How to Use a Printable Ring Sizer

  1. Download: Download our printable ring sizer here.

  2. Print: Open the PDF and print your ring sizer.

  3. Cut: Cut out the InstaSizer and make a small slit close to the top of the sizer. 

  4. Measure: Wrap the InstaSizer around your ring finger at the widest part and slide the point through the small slit. Don’t pull it too tight, as you will want your ring to slide over your knuckle.

  5. Repeat: Complete this process 2 - 3 more times to ensure optimal accuracy.

Watch the printable ring sizer video tutorial here. 

Method 3: DIY ring sizer

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You’re a crafty DIY-ing son-of-a-gun, or you just don’t own a printer. Either way, there are a few DIY sizing solutions you can rig up at home to find your ring size. Just keep in mind that these methods are far less accurate than our Manly Sizer or our printable ring sizer. We highly recommend using one of those options first. 

DIY Ring Sizing Methods

  1. String

    1. Cut the string about 6 inches long 

    2. Wrap it around the base of your ring finger

    3. Use a pen or marker to mark where the string overlaps

    4. Measure the string’s length with a ruler (in mm)

    5. Use the ring size chart above to translate your ring size

  2. Use an existing ring: 

    1. Choose a ring that fits comfortably on your ring finger

    2. Make sure the ring is clean and dry 

    3. Place the ring on a flat surface 

    4. Measure the inside diameter of the ring using a measuring tape (in mm)

    5. Compare your measurement to the ring size chart above

Method 4: Take your best guess

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Ah, yes, the educated guess. We’re not here to judge. Although we’d prefer you pick any of the other options above, we get that not everyone has time or a printer. So go rogue, take a guess, and add that shiny new ring to your cart. If it doesn’t fit, we’ve got you covered. You’ll have 30 days from the date of delivery to return or exchange your ring for the perfect size. 

The ‘Proper’ Fit & Feel

You’ve found your ring size—congrats! But you’re not done yet. It’s not just about finding the right size; it’s also about how the ring feels on your hand. You want your ring to feel comfortable and secure. Too tight, and you’ll be oiling up your swollen finger like a bodybuilder on competition day. Too loose, and you’ll be one of the millions of guys Googling how to get your wedding ring out of the drain. So, here’s the general rule of thumb.

The ‘Rule of Thumb’ Fit: Your ring should go over your second knuckle without too much strain and should take a little something to get it off. Think – sorta-easy on, sorta-easy off. 

Fit & Feel Considerations

  • Big knuckles: If your knuckles are big, do not size down for the smaller widths. Instead, choose a slightly larger size to accommodate them. Ensure the ring can slide comfortably over your knuckle while fitting snugly at the base of your finger to prevent it from sliding off. 

  • Temperature: Finger size can fluctuate with temperature changes. If you’re frequently exposed to high or low temps, consider adjusting your size accordingly (or using The Best Man silicone ring when you are out and about)

  • Comfort Fit: It goes without saying that your ring should feel comfortable for an extended period of time without pain or irritation. If you’re experiencing discomfort or redness, consider changing sizes or materials, as many materials are not hypoallergenic. 

  • Ring spinning: if you’re the set-it-and-forget-it type, consider a ring that fits nice and snug to avoid any spinning. If you’re the type of guy who likes to fidget, consider going with a half-size bigger if you need some twist in your life.

Ring Materials Sizing Guide

The ring material is one of the most important things to consider when determining your ring size. At Manly Bands, we craft our wedding bands in a wide range of metals and materials to fit your personal style and budget. But not every material is resizable. So, before you commit, check out whether your chosen ring material is resizable – in case things change after your big day.

The Material

The Verdict

Why?

Gold

✅ 

Gold is the best ring material for resizing. It is a malleable metal that can easily be stretched or compressed to adjust its size. 

Titanium

Maybe

For the most part, titanium rings cannot be resized as titanium is a very hard and nonmalleable metal. However, some titanium rings can be tightened or reduced in size by adding a layer inside the band.

Tungsten

Tungsten rings cannot be resized because tungsten is extremely hard and dense, making it nearly impossible to resize without risk of damage. 

Cobalt Chrome

Similar to tungsten and titanium, cobalt chrome rings are very difficult to resize due to the materials' strength and hardness. 

Black Zirconium

Black zirconium rings cannot be resized due to their hardness and unique surface treatment, which is prone to damage during resizing. 

Tantalum

✅ 

Unlike many other alternative metals, tantalum is relatively malleable and can typically be resized up to one size depending on customizations and pairings with other metals. 

Wood

Maybe

Wood rings can be resized to some extent, depending on the design. But, it’s often more complicated than resizing metal rings and may not always be possible depending on customizations and other metal pairings. 

Carbon Fiber

Once a carbon fiber ring settles, it cannot be resized. This is because the material is not malleable in its finished form. 

Antler

-

Antler rings are only offered as an inlay option and are typically paired with other non-resizable metals and materials, such as carbon fiber and black zirconium.

Silicone

Silicone rings cannot be resized. However, silicone rings are affordable and can easily be exchanged for a different size within our 30-day exchange policy. 

Damascus Steel

While Damascus steel rings can be stretched on specialized equipment, this force often breaks the ring. Therefore, we do not offer resizing on any Damascus steel ring. 

Meteorite

-

Meteorite rings are only offered as an inlay option and are typically paired with other non-resizable metals and materials, such as titanium and black zirconium. 

Dinosaur Bone

-

Dinosaur bone rings are only offered as an inlay option and are typically paired with other non-resizable metals and materials, such as titanium and carbon fiber. 

Frequently Asked Questions

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers. Here is a list of the most frequently asked questions we receive from discerning buyers like you. 

What if my ring doesn’t fit?

If your ring doesn’t fit, don’t sweat it! We want to ensure you get the perfect fit, so we have simplified the exchange process. Just send it back to us within 30 days of delivery to exchange it for a new size or get a full refund. To learn more, check out our Returns & Exchanges policy. 

Does my Manly Bands ring come with a warranty?

Sure does! All of our “ready to ship” rings (i.e., rings that ship in 1 - 3 days) are protected by a FREE 1 year no hassle, limited warranty. This warranty protects your ring against any manufacturing defects. If your ring has a manufacturing defect (chipping, breaking, etc.), we will replace it one time at no cost to you. Just hang onto your proof of purchase (aka your receipt) and email us a clear photo of the defective ring showing visible defects within one (1) year of the original order day. All “made to order” styles (hand-crafted rings) come with a Lifetime Warranty. 

Learn more about our Warranty Program. 

What are the average ring sizes for men and women?

Ring sizes generally range between sizes 3 and 14. While some hulking fellows need a bigger size, this range tends to be the average among the U.S. population. What determines your ring size, you ask? Great question! Generally speaking, your height, weight, and finger shape dictate your ring size.

  • Men: The average men's ring size is a size 9. Men tend to wear rings anywhere between a size 7 and a size 14. 

  • Women: The average woman’s ring size is a size 6. Women tend to wear rings anywhere between a size 5 and a size 8.

Does the band thickness affect the size?

Yes! The band thickness can affect the perceived size and fit of a ring. Thicker bands tend to feel tighter and may require a slightly larger size to achieve a more comfortable fit. On the flip side, thinner bands may feel looser and need a smaller size to feel more secure and snug. 

What do I do if I’m between sizes?

If you find yourself between sizes, choosing a larger size is generally recommended for a more comfortable fit. You can also consider getting a ring made in half sizes or choosing a resizable metal for a more precise fit (see our materials guide above). 

What do I do if my ring size changes?

We get it. Life happens, and sometimes the ring that was the perfect fit on your wedding day doesn’t quite fit right a few months down the road. If your ring size changes, contact our customer support team to find out if it’s possible to get your ring resized. If it’s not possible, we’ll work with you to find the next best option. If you’re a guy who tends to gain and lose a few lbs here and there, your best bet is to go with a resizable ring material like gold. 

What happens if I order the wrong size?

Wrong size, no problem! If you’re the guy who took the ballpark guess on your ring size and it’s not quite right, we’ll exchange your ring for a new size for free within 30 days of ownership. Best of all, we even pay for shipping both ways—that’s how much we like you. Get all the details on our Returns & Exchange policy here. 

How do I secretly find the right size for someone else?

Shhh, we promise we won’t tell! Fun stuff–you’re shopping for a special someone, and you have no idea what size they wear. If we were in your shoes, here’s what we’d do. First, do a little snooping around the house and see if you can’t find a ring they wear regularly. Measure that bad boy with our printable ring sizer. If that doesn’t work, ask friends or family who might know their ring size. Worst-case scenario, take your best guess, and we’ll have you covered with our super awesome Returns & Exchange policy. 

Still feeling stumped about your ring size? Email our Customer Happiness team at hello@manlybands.com. They’re always happy to help!