I've been wanting an Open Road or Stratoliner for some time now and have been watching ebay and even bid on some. I have owned various hats, including one Stetson 4X beaver Cattleman in size 7, from size 6 7/8 to 7 1/8. I currently have a cheap wool felt fedora (Pendleton) in size M. I have always just gone to the store and tried them on until I find one that fits. Obviously, one cannot do that on ebay. BTW, my head measures 22 inches.

My question is: Given the range of sizes I've worn, what size(s) should I bid on? I've read here of hats shrinking over time. Might a vintage hat have shrunk a size? How practical is stretching a hat?