What Is the Average Ring Size for Men?

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Whether you're picking out the perfect ring to pair with a Cuban link chain or another urban-culture-inspired piece, size is one of the most important factors to consider. Finding the perfect fit is essential to get the best comfort and showcase the ring’s style, but it can be tricky to know where to start — especially if you're shopping for someone else.

While taking a precise finger measurement is the best way to determine ring size, it's not always possible to get an exact measurement. In these cases, it's helpful to know the average men's ring size so you can make an educated guess. 

The Average Ring Size

Most men have a ring size between 7 and 14, but the average men's ring size is between 9 and 10.5. 

If you're not sure which ring size to choose, it's always best to err on the side of a larger size rather than a smaller one. It's much easier to have a ring resized if it's too big than it is to make a ring larger if it's too small.

Factors in a Ring Size

One of the biggest factors affecting ring size, believe it or not, is geography. Studies have shown that men tend to have larger hands and longer fingers in colder climates, while men in warmer climates have smaller hands and shorter fingers. This is likely due to the fact that cold weather causes the body to conserve heat, which results in increased blood flow and an overall increase in size. 

Age is another factor that can affect ring size. As men get older, their hands and fingers tend to swell slightly due to a decrease in elasticity in the skin. This is why it's often a good idea to have your favorite pieces resized every few years to ensure that they still have the right fit.

Additionally, certain medical conditions can cause hands and fingers to swell, which can affect ring size. Conditions like arthritis, diabetes and carpal tunnel syndrome are all known to cause swelling in the hands and fingers. 

Weight gain or loss can impact ring size, as changes in weight can cause the hands and fingers to swell or shrink. If you're purchasing a ring as a gift for a recipient who has recently undergone a significant weight change, it's best to wait until their weight has stabilized before having the ring sized. 

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How to Measure Ring Size

There are a few different ways to measure ring size, but the most accurate way is to visit a jeweler and have your finger professionally measured. 

Another common method is to try on rings in a jewelry store and simply note which size feels comfortable. This isn't always accurate, but it's a good place to start if you're not sure what size to choose. This option also lets you see the rings up close and allows you to check out any iced-out chains and items that might look good with the rings you choose.

There are a few ways you can measure ring size at home. One popular method is to wrap a piece of string or paper around the finger and mark the spot where the two ends meet. Once you have the circumference of the finger, you can use a ring size chart to determine the corresponding ring size. 

How to Pick the Perfect Ring Size

If you're shopping for a ring for someone else, there are a few things you can do to try and figure out their ring size. First, take a look at their other rings to see if you can get an idea of what size they wear. If they don't wear rings, you can try asking their friends or family if they know what size ring the person wears. 

Another option is to secretly borrow one of the person's rings and take it to a jeweler to have it measured. This is obviously a bit more tricky, but it's usually worth it to get an accurate measurement.

Finally, you can always just ask the person what size ring they wear. This takes the element of surprise out of the equation, but it's still a reliable way to make sure you're getting the right size ring.

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