Shoulder width and where to measure it on a T-shirt

Short answer: How do you measure shoulder width? Measure across the back from the seam of one shoulder to the other, on a garment lying flat or on yourself with a helper. Compare the measurement with the size guide. Here is a simple step-by-step guide for tank top and T-shirt.

How to measure shoulder width on yourself

Stand straight with your arms at your sides. Ask a helper to measure across the back from one shoulder bone to the other. The tape should lie lightly against the body, without being pulled tight. Measure in a thin T-shirt or without a top to get a true measurement. Write the measurement down straight away.

How to measure shoulder width on a garment

Lay a garment that fits well flat on a table and smooth it out. Measure from the outer seam at one shoulder to the outer seam at the other. That is the shoulder width of the garment. Compare with the measurement in the size guide or the description for the garment you are thinking of buying.

Shoulder width on a tank top

On a tank top the shoulders are narrower, and the seam sits closer to the neck. Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the other where the strap begins. Look at bamboo tank top for men and compare with the measurement you took. If it matches, the top should sit comfortably without slipping off the shoulder.

Shoulder width on a T-shirt

On a T-shirt the shoulder seam usually sits a little outside the shoulder bone if the fit is loose, and on the shoulder bone if it is close. Measure your own width and compare with the garment's. If the measurement is larger than your body, the garment will be looser, and if it is smaller, it will be closer.

What to do if you are between two sizes

If you are between two sizes, think about what you want. If you want a loose garment you can choose the larger, and if you want one that sits close you can choose the smaller. Also remember that the fabric can give a little when you wear it.

More measurements that help

Shoulder width is only one of the measurements. Also measure chest, the length of the garment and sleeve length. Compare all of them with the size guide. If you have a T-shirt that fits well, you can measure it and use the measurements as a template. Also look at socks for men if you need to measure foot size.

Common mistakes when measuring

The most common mistake is pulling the tape too tight. Another is measuring over a thick garment or not standing straight. Measure twice to be safe. If the measurements differ, take the average. Then the result is more certain, and you avoid exchanging later.

From measurements to choice

When you have the measurements, you compare them with the size guide and choose what is closest. Look at bamboo jogging sets if you want a matching whole, and choose the size by the same measurements. The fit is best when you start from the measurements and not just from what you usually wear.

Frequently asked questions

Where do you measure shoulder width

Across the back from the outer seam or shoulder bone of one shoulder to the other. Let the tape lie lightly against the body without pulling it tight.

How do I measure shoulder width on a garment

Lay the garment flat, smooth it out and measure from the outside of one shoulder seam to the outside of the other. Compare with the size guide.

What if I am between two sizes

Choose by how closely you want the garment to fit: the larger for a looser fit and the smaller for a closer one. Measure several measurements to be safe.