When to go down a size

Short answer: You go down a size in two cases. When the fabric has a lot of stretch, and when the cut is oversized but you want a regular fit. In all other cases the safest choice is to stay in your normal size.

With a lot of stretch in the fabric

If there is eight percent elastane or more, the fabric gives a lot. A size down can then sit close and still feel comfortable, because the fabric follows the body. That suits pieces meant to fit close, such as bamboo undershirts for men. Below that level, the fabric does not give enough for a smaller size to work.

With oversize if you want a regular fit

An oversized cut one size down becomes a regular fit. The cut has extra room, and going down removes some of it. That can be a good solution if you like the model but not the loose shape. Compare the measurements with a T-shirt you own, for example from our bamboo T-shirts for men.

Never to save on fabric

A size that is too small never becomes comfortable, whatever the fabric can do. It can be tempting to choose smaller because it looks tighter, but the result often pulls and rides up. Choose the size by your measurements, not by a wish to look smaller. The same goes for bamboo socks for men.

The shoulders decide

The biggest risk of going down is that the garment gets tight across the shoulders. Shoulder width cannot be changed, and that is where a size too small shows first. Even a very stretchy fabric cannot make up for shoulders that are too narrow. Measure the shoulder width on a garment that fits and compare.

Read the fabric content

Before you go down, you need to know how much the fabric gives. Read the fabric content in the description or on the label. If there is no elastane, going down is not a good idea. With a small share, the fabric gives a little, but not enough for a whole size.

Think about length

A size down does not only get narrower. The garment also becomes shorter in the body and sleeves. That can work if your normal size already feels long. But if you are tall, a smaller size may end up too short. Check the length in the guide before you decide.

Stay in your size when in doubt

If you are unsure, your normal size is the safest choice. A slightly large jumper can still be worn, but one that is too small rarely works. Going down without a clear reason risks an exchange. It is better to choose the size you know fits and then look at the cut.

Measure a garment you own

The easiest way is to measure a garment that fits the way you like. Lay it flat and measure the chest width, shoulder width and length. Hold the numbers against the guide for both your normal size and one size smaller. Then you can see exactly what you will get.

Frequently asked questions

When should you go down a size

With a lot of stretch in the fabric, or when an oversized cut is meant to be worn as a regular fit. Otherwise your normal size is the safest choice.

How much stretch is needed

Eight percent elastane or more. Below that, the fabric does not give enough for a size down to work, and the garment will feel tight.

What is the risk of going down

That the garment gets tight across the shoulders. Shoulder width cannot be changed, and that is where a size too small shows first.