How to measure a sleeve length

Short answer: Sleeve length is measured from the shoulder edge out to where the sleeve should end. On a long sleeve that is the wrist, on a short sleeve the middle of the upper arm.

Start at the shoulder edge

The measurement starts where the shoulder drops down towards the arm. That is also where the shoulder seam of a well fitting top should sit. Start too far in towards the neck and the figure is too long, too far out and it is too short. Find the edge by feeling where the shoulder bone ends.

Arm slightly bent

Measure with the arm slightly bent and hanging by your side, not fully straight. A straight arm gives a figure that is too short once you bend your arm in use, such as reaching for something or sitting at a table. Let the tape follow the arm over the elbow and down to the wrist.

Where the sleeve should end

On a long sleeve, the measurement ends at the wrist, just where the hand begins. Some like the sleeve to cover a little of the back of the hand, others prefer it to end right at the joint. On a short sleeve, it ends around the middle of the upper arm. Decide first where you want the edge.

Get help with the measurement

Measuring your own arm accurately is hard, because you hold the tape with your other hand. Ask someone to hold the tape at the shoulder edge and follow the arm down. Measure both arms, as there can be a small difference, and use the longer figure.

Compare with a piece you own

The easiest method is to measure a sleeve you already know fits. Lay the piece flat on a table, smooth out the sleeve and measure from shoulder seam to cuff. Then compare the figure with the size guide on the product page. See bamboo sweatshirt for men, where sleeve length makes a real difference.

Cuffs and ribbed edges

A sleeve with a ribbed cuff can be a little longer, because the cuff gathers the fabric at the wrist. That gives a slight bunching above the cuff, which many find relaxed. A plain sleeve without a cuff needs to fit the length more precisely. Check which kind of sleeve it is before comparing.

Sleeves on sets

When you buy a set, both sleeves and legs need to fit. Measure the sleeve as described and the leg length on a pair of your trousers. See the bamboo jogging suit, where top and trousers belong together. If you prefer to mix, choose bamboo sweatpants for men in the size that suits your legs.

Write it down

Write the sleeve length down along with chest, waist and shoulder width. Then it is to hand next time you shop, and you can quickly see whether a model fits. Measure again now and then, or when clothes that used to fit feel different in the sleeves.

Frequently asked questions

Where does sleeve length start

At the shoulder edge, where the shoulder drops down towards the arm. That is also where the shoulder seam of a well fitting top should sit.

Should the arm be straight

No, slightly bent. A fully straight arm gives a figure that is too short when you bend your arm in use, such as when reaching.

What is the easiest method

Measuring a sleeve you already own. Lay the piece flat, measure from shoulder seam to cuff, and compare the figure with the guide on the product page.