I found I couldn’t make the gauge using any combination of recommended yarn weight and hook without increasing stitches and rows, at approximately 1.5 times # stitches or rows.

I made a second hat using worsted doubled (requires twice and much yarn), and J hook. I was able to achieve the recommended gauge with no trouble using either method.

I had to tighten up the band, by removing 3 extra stitches, when I made it again.