Do Soccer Jerseys Run Small? How to Size Up (With Real Measurements)

Yes, most soccer jerseys run small. Here's why, how much to size up, fan vs player fit, and real shirt measurements from XL to 6XL.

Yes — most soccer jerseys run small. They are cut closer to the body than a T-shirt, and player versions are tighter still. If you are between sizes or want a relaxed fit, go one size up. Below is why, and the real measurements to check before you order.

Why football shirts feel small

  • Athletic cut. Jerseys are designed for movement, with a slimmer chest and waist than casual tops.
  • Player versions are tighter. They are made to sit close to an athlete’s body. Most people find them about one size smaller than the fan version.
  • Sizes differ by region. A European or Asian “XL” is often closer to a US “L”. The label alone tells you very little.

Check the shirt, not the label

The most reliable way to choose: measure a shirt that fits you well, laid flat, armpit to armpit, then double it. Compare that number with the shirt chest below. These are the real flat measurements of our fan jerseys (they may vary by 1–3 cm).

SizeShirt chestComfortable for body chestLength
XL118 cm / 46.5 inup to ~110 cm / 43 in73 cm / 28.7 in
2XL122 cm / 48.0 inup to ~114 cm / 45 in76 cm / 29.9 in
3XL127 cm / 50.0 inup to ~119 cm / 47 in79 cm / 31.1 in
4XL132 cm / 52.0 inup to ~124 cm / 49 in82 cm / 32.3 in
5XL137 cm / 53.9 inup to ~129 cm / 51 in85 cm / 33.5 in
6XL142 cm / 55.9 inup to ~134 cm / 53 in88 cm / 34.6 in

“Comfortable for body chest” leaves about 8 cm (3 in) of room — enough for a relaxed fan fit. Want it looser? Go one size up. The full chart from XS is on our size chart.

How much should I size up?

  • Fan version, regular fit: your usual T-shirt size usually works. Between sizes? Go up.
  • Fan version, streetwear or loose fit: one size up.
  • Player version: one size up from your T-shirt size — or choose the fan version.
  • Over a hoodie or base layer: one to two sizes up.

Bigger build? Use the fan version

For bigger builds the fan version is the better choice: straighter cut, more room at the chest and belly, and bigger sizes are cut longer, so the shirt still covers the waistband. Almost every jersey in our store comes in 3XL and 4XL, and 5XL and 6XL are available on request. See them all on our plus size football jerseys page, or read the full 3XL to 6XL size guide.

Frequently asked questions

Do soccer jerseys run small?

Yes. Most jerseys are cut slimmer than T-shirts, and player versions are tighter than fan versions. Go one size up if you are between sizes or want a relaxed fit.

Should I size up in a player version jersey?

Yes. Player versions usually feel one size smaller than the fan version. Size up, or choose the fan version for a looser fit.

What is the biggest jersey size you sell?

6XL, with a 142 cm (55.9 in) shirt chest. 3XL and 4XL are on every product page; 5XL and 6XL are available on request on WhatsApp.

Still unsure? Ask us

Send us your height, weight and chest measurement on WhatsApp and a real person will recommend a size before you pay.

Ask our size expert on WhatsApp

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Chat with us