Below is a chart that displays the recommended flag size for a specific flagpole height. These sizes are only recommendations, some people find that the recommendations are a little smaller or larger than they prefer.

We listed (2) flag sizes for each flagpole height because in many cases the "recommended" size is a little small and we like to leave it up to the customer to decide what they prefer. Many people prefer to go one size larger than the "recommended" size because they feel it looks more balanced without looking too overpowering.

A common question that people ask is "What size flag should I use on my flagpole and does it matter?" Actually yes it does matter, in fact it is important in regards to how well the flag will last. An undersized flag will be exposed to a higher wind-load than the flag was designed for.

For Example:
Say you have a 100' flagpole (approximately the size of a 10 story building), if you were to put a 3x5' US Flag on that pole, the flag would be flapping in the wind non-stop all day long, the flag would not have any down time.

Now if you were to put the proper sized 30x50' flag on the top of that 100' flagpole this flag would be able to handle the wind-load at that height and the wind would gently pick up the flag and drop the flag in a much gentler manner.

That is sort of an extreme example, but it explains the basics behind the square footage of a flag and the wind-loads that a higher flagpole will receive.

Another thing to consider, even with a 30' or 40' flagpole is the surrounding area. If the flagpole is higher than most of the buildings in the area, a flag at the top of that flagpole will be receiving a higher wind-load than a shorter flagpole that is more sheltered from the surrounding buildings. Many people are not aware of the fact that just because there may be a slight breeze at ground level does not mean that the wind above the buildings is the same. The higher you go the stronger the winds get.

These are all factors that should be considered when purchasing a flag for your flagpole. Please consider these factors when choosing a flag for your flagpole and please take a look at our Flag Size Chart above to help you decide on the proper size flag to purchase.

If you have any questions Contact Us and we will help you decide what is best for your application.

How to measure a flagpole

We realize you may not have a 100' tape measure to run up your flagpole to get the exact height of your flagpole. But that's fine, it doesn't have to be an exact measurement as long as it is somewhat close.

What you can do is take a standard 25' tape measure, attach the end of the tape measure to the top flag snap. Then start raising the end of the tape measure (like you were raising a flag) and when you reach the end of the tape measure (25') and the case of the tape measure is right at ground level, tie off the rope around the cleat to secure your position. Then step back and take a look at the overall height of the flagpole with the tape measure hanging (at the 25' mark).

You should be able to get a pretty decent estimate of the remaining height of the flagpole at this point. For example, if the case of the tape measure is touching the ground and the top snap (where the end of the tape measure is attached) is about half way up the flagpole you have a flagpole around 50'.