T-shirt shoulder width and where the seam should sit

Short answer: Shoulder width is the measurement from one shoulder tip to the other, and the shoulder seam on a T-shirt should sit exactly where the shoulder ends. When that fits, the rest of the shirt falls neatly. Here we show how to measure and what to look for.

What shoulder width on a T-shirt means

Shoulder width is the distance between the two points where the shoulders end and the arms begin. On a T-shirt it is measured from the seam on one side to the seam on the other, across the back. The measurement matters because it decides how the sleeves and the rest of the fabric hang on the body.

This is where the seam belongs

The seam should sit at the bony edge where the shoulder turns into the upper arm. In a mirror it should be neither up against the neck nor far down the arm. In the collection you will find bamboo T-shirts for men, where you can compare sizes against your own measurement.

How to measure yourself

Stand relaxed with your arms down and ask someone to lay the tape from one shoulder edge to the other across your back. Hold the tape lightly so it does not pull. If you measure alone, you can stand with your back to a mirror, but a helper makes it easier and more precise.

Measure a T-shirt that already fits

If you have a T-shirt that sits well, lay it flat and measure from seam to seam. That number is a good starting point when you compare with the size guide. Use it as a guide, and remember that the fabric can give a little.

Narrow and broad shoulders

With narrow shoulders, a standard size can leave the seam hanging out on the upper arm. With broad shoulders, the same size can pull across the back. Give shoulder width more weight than chest size when you choose, and pick the size by what is hardest to change.

When the seam sits in the wrong place

If the seam sits too far in, the T-shirt feels tight under the arms, and you notice it when you lift them. If it sits too far out, the sleeves fall loosely and the whole garment looks too big. Shoulder width often decides this, even when the rest of the size fits.

Small details that help

Measure a few times and at different times of day, since the body changes a little over the day. Write the number down and bring it when you shop. Remember too that good socks for men and other basics are part of what keeps clothes comfortable all day.

The same thinking for what sits closest

Fit is not only about the T-shirt. What sits closest to the skin, such as bamboo boxer briefs, should sit calmly without pulling or sliding. Measure, compare with the size guide, and choose the size that suits your body, and the whole day becomes more comfortable.

Frequently asked questions

How do I measure the shoulder width of a T-shirt

Lay the T-shirt flat and measure from the shoulder seam on one side to the seam on the other. On the body, measure from one shoulder edge to the other across the back.

Where should the shoulder seam sit

It should sit at the bony edge where the shoulder turns into the upper arm, neither right up at the neck nor far down the arm.

What if I have narrow shoulders

Give shoulder width the most weight when you choose a size, and compare with a T-shirt that already fits well. That helps the seam land in the right place.