Choosing a size in sweat

Short answer: Sweat is usually worn a little looser than a T-shirt, because there needs to be room for a layer underneath. Choose by the shoulders and accept a bit of extra width. Then the top fits well, on its own or over another layer.

The shoulders still decide

If the shoulder seam sits out on the arm, the sweat fabric hangs heavily at the back and the sleeves end up too long. If it sits inside the shoulder, the top pulls when you lift your arms. The seam should sit where the shoulder ends. See the fits in bamboo sweatshirt men.

Room for a layer underneath

A T-shirt or long sleeve top underneath needs a few centimetres of extra width across chest and back. Without that room, the top pulls as you move and the layer beneath rides up. Think about what you usually wear under it. See the styles in bamboo sweat for men and women.

The length should cover the waistband

The sweat top should reach over the waistband, even when you stretch up for something on a shelf. If it is too short, a cold strip of skin appears at the back when you bend. Raise your arms over your head when trying it on. See the lengths in bamboo hoodie women.

Sleeve length

With your arm hanging down, the sleeve should reach the wrist, and the ribbed cuff should sit there without sliding over your hand. A little extra length is fine, since the rib gathers the fabric. If the sleeve is far too long, the rib gets stretched when you push it up and loses its tension sooner.

Measure a top you already own

The safest way to choose a size is to measure a sweatshirt you already like. Lay it flat and measure the width from armpit to armpit and the length from shoulder to hem. Compare that with the size guide for the style you are considering, and you will know which size to pick.

Between two sizes

If you fall between two sizes, think about how you will wear the top. On its own or over a thin T-shirt, the smaller one is often best. If you want two layers underneath or prefer a looser look, the larger one is the safe choice. Even so, let the shoulders have the final say.

Hoodie and sweatshirt

A hoodie and a sweatshirt in the same size can feel different. The hood pulls a little at the neck and can make the hoodie sit further back. A crew neck sweatshirt sits straighter. Check that the hood lies calmly on your back and that the neckline is wide enough for your head to pass through easily.

After washing

Sweat can shrink a little in length at 40 degrees, and more in a tumble dryer. Wash at a low temperature and hang the top to dry, so it keeps its size. Ease the fabric into shape while it is damp. If you are unsure about a size, wash it gently the first time and check the fit afterwards.

Frequently asked questions

Should you size up in sweat

Only if you normally sit on the border between sizes, or if you want two layers underneath. Otherwise your usual size is generally the right choice in sweat.

Does sweat shrink in the wash

A little in length at 40 degrees, more in a tumble dryer. Hang the top to dry and ease the fabric into shape while damp, and it will keep its length best.

What if the sleeves are too long

A tailor can shorten the ribbed cuff, but it is a bigger job than on a T-shirt. Slightly long sleeves can often just be pushed up and held by the rib.