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How to measure a sweatshirt and choose the right size?
The sweatshirt is one of the most versatile wardrobe pieces. We wear it daily, to work, during walks or outdoor trips. It comes in many styles, as you will find models with or without a hood, with pockets or without, and with various practical additions.
In this guide, we provide step-by-step instructions on how to accurately measure your figure to choose the perfectly fitting sweatshirt. Many customers buy sweatshirts from online stores without taking measurements beforehand and often have to return them later. With our tips, you will shop consciously and avoid disappointment when unpacking your order.
Measuring your figure — the key to a good sweatshirt size
Choosing the right sweatshirt size begins with accurately measuring your own figure. For this, it's best to use a soft tailor's tape measure, which allows you to precisely determine body dimensions. Knowing your chest circumference, sleeve length, and hip width allows you to precisely select the size, so the sweatshirt won't be too tight or excessively loose. To correctly measure your figure for a sweatshirt, follow these steps:
1. Chest – wrap the tape measure around the widest part of the chest, which is usually right under the armpits, at the level of the nipples. The tape should run horizontally around the entire torso.
2. Hips – measure the circumference at the widest point of the hips, usually roughly midway up the buttocks.
3. Sleeve length – measure from the top of the shoulder down to the wrist (outside) or from the armpit to the wrist (inside).
4. Total length – place the tape measure at the neck (at the top of the shoulder) and run it vertically down to where the sweatshirt should end.
Additional tips:
- When measuring, adopt a natural, relaxed posture, do not hold in your stomach or tense your muscles.
- If possible, ask someone for help, as measurements taken by another person are more accurate.
- The tape measure should fit snugly against the body but not compress it, it should not be too loose or too tight.
How to properly measure a sweatshirt you already have?
Another way to select the right sweatshirt is to measure one you already have that fits you well. Lay it flat on a surface and take the following measurements:
1. Chest width – measure the distance in a straight line from one armpit to the other.
2. Hip width – measure the bottom edge of the sweatshirt (cuff) from left to right.
3. Sleeve length – measure from the shoulder seam to the very end of the cuff.
4. Total length – measure the sweatshirt vertically, starting from the highest point on the shoulder (at the neck) and ending at the very bottom. In some cases, manufacturers provide the length measured on the back; such information is usually found in the product description or in measurement instructions.
You can also watch a short instructional video showing exactly how to accurately measure a sweatshirt:
How to measure a hoodie?
For a hoodie, proceed exactly as before. Measure the chest width, hip width, sleeve length, and total length. However, pay attention to one commonly made mistake. When measuring the length of a hoodie, place the tape measure at the highest point on the shoulder – right next to where the hood seam begins. Do not measure the length together with the hood.
Sample sweatshirt size chart
If you already know your measurements or have a sweatshirt that fits well, you can check the size chart of the selected model. In online stores, the size chart is usually on the product page and serves as a key guideline for matching the appropriate size.
A sample size chart available on our site – Mil-Tec Tactical Hoodie:
| Size | Chest circumference (cm) | Sleeve length (cm) | Total length - back (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 110 | 63.5 | 65 |
| M | 116 | 65.5 | 67 |
| L | 122 | 67.5 | 69 |
| XL | 128 | 69.5 | 71 |
| XXL | 134 | 71.5 | 73 |
| 3XL | 140 | 73.5 | 75 |
Based on the above chart, it's clear that the manufacturer recommends accurately measuring three parameters before purchase. After taking measurements, compare the values obtained with the table and match them to the appropriate size indicated by a letter (S, M, L, XL, etc.).
Letter sizes are the standard clothing size labeling system:
- S (Small) – small size.
- M (Medium) – medium size.
- L (Large) – large size.
- XL (Extra Large) – very large size.
- XXL (Double Extra Large) – the next size after XL, offering more space, especially in chest, waist, and hip circimferences. Typically, XXL is about 2-4 inches (approx. 5-10 cm) larger in circumference than XL (depending on the manufacturer).
- 3XL (Triple Extra Large) – the next size after XXL, further increasing circumferences compared to XXL.
Sweatshirts available in the MILITARY store
In our store, you'll find a wide range of sweatshirts suitable for various activities as well as everyday use. We offer military, tourist, sports, and thermal models adapted to diverse conditions and needs. The MILITARY range includes sweatshirts in different variants: in camouflage and muted, classic colors. We offer models with hoods and without, pullover or zipped.
