Why two guides are not the same

Short answer: Two brands can have completely different numbers for the same letter size. That is because each brand cuts to its own scale and its own customers, so a medium does not mean the same thing everywhere.

Each brand has its own scale

There is no international standard for letter sizes in clothing. Each brand decides for itself what a small, a medium and a large should measure. That is why two jumpers with the same letter can be several centimetres apart. It also applies within the same type of clothing, such as bamboo sweat for men and women from different brands.

The customer group moves the numbers

A brand that sells to a particular market adjusts its measurements to it. Customers in one country or age group may have different measurements and different wishes for fit than customers elsewhere. The brand cuts for the people it sells to most. That is not wrong, but your experience with one brand does not simply carry over.

The cut changes the numbers too

Beyond the scale, the cut plays a part. A brand that prefers a relaxed fit builds more room into every size than one that prefers a close fit. So even with the same body measurements as a starting point, the garment measurements would differ. Always read the fit description together with the table.

The guides do not measure the same thing

Some guides show body measurements, others show the measurements of the garment. If you compare one of each, the brands can look very different, even though the gap may come from what was measured. Check the table heading before you put two size guides side by side.

Why centimetres are the only fixed point

Letters cannot be compared, but centimetres can. A centimetre is the same whatever brand is on the label. When you hold your own measurements against a brand's table, you get an answer that does not depend on what the brand calls the size. This applies across all men's clothing.

Measure yourself before a new brand

The first time you buy from a brand, it is worth taking your measurements again. Measure your chest at its widest point, your waist and your hips, and write the numbers down. Then compare them with that brand's own guide. Your size with another brand is a hint, nothing more.

Use a garment you own as a reference

If you have a garment that fits well, you can measure it and compare it with the guide's garment measurements. Lay it flat, measure the width across the chest and double it. That gives you a number showing how you like to wear your clothes, not just how big you are.

Once you know the brand

Once you have bought from a brand and found the right size, it becomes much easier. You can usually choose the same letter again, as long as the cut is the same. Have a look at the most popular styles for men and check the fit in the description.

Frequently asked questions

Why are size guides different

Because each brand cuts to its own scale. There is no international standard for letter sizes, so a medium can measure differently at two brands.

Can you compare two guides

Yes, but only by the centimetres. The letters cannot be compared, because they mean different things at each brand. Also check that both show the same kind of measurement.

How do you find your size with a new brand

By measuring yourself and comparing with that brand's own guide. Your size with another brand tells you nothing certain about what to choose.