Size guide 2026: choosing the right size in a hoodie, t-shirt and cap
Share
Briefly: measure once, order right. Clear instructions for hoodie, t-shirt and cap sizing: how to measure, what unisex sizing means, and what to do between two sizes. Full charts included. Because the garments are made to order, getting the size right first time saves a return.
The one mistake that ruins a size choice
Most important thing first: the numbers in the charts are widths, not circumferences.
Chest width is measured armpit to armpit with the garment laid flat. Do not double it, and do not compare it to the measurement around your own chest, since that lands you in the wrong size. This is the single most common reason for returns.
How to measure at home
You need: a tape measure, a flat surface and a garment of your own that fits well.
- Lay the garment flat and smooth out the creases.
- Chest width: from under one armpit seam straight across to the other.
- Length: from the highest shoulder point to the hem.
- Compare the numbers against the charts below.
Letter sizes vary between brands by a surprising amount. Two different labels' L can differ by more than five centimetres. Measurements do not lie.
Hoodie size chart
Chest width / length, in centimetres:
- S: 50.8 / 68.6
- M: 53.3 / 71.1
- L: 58.4 / 73.7
- XL: 63.5 / 76.2
- 2XL: 67.3 / 78.7
- 3XL: 71.1 / 81.3
Hoodies are a 288 g/m² Cotton Heritage base with a unisex cut. More on weight classes in the GSM guide.
T-shirt size chart
Width / length / sleeve length from centre back, in centimetres:
- S: 46.4 / 67.6 / 41.3
- M: 51.4 / 71.1 / 45
- L: 55.9 / 74.6 / 48.3
- XL: 61 / 78.1 / 52
- 2XL: 66 / 80.3 / 55.3
- 3XL: 70.5 / 82.6 / 59
- 4XL: 75.6 / 85 / 62.6
T-shirts are a Comfort Colors base with a unisex cut. The cut is relaxed: if you want a more normal fit, take the smaller size.
Caps
Caps are one adjustable size and fit most people. No separate size choice is needed.
Tolerance
Normal production tolerance is about ±1-3 cm. That is ordinary in printed garments and is not a fault. A little shrinkage in the first wash is also possible. Wash inside out at 30-40 °C and avoid tumble drying, and the measurements stay close to the original.
Unisex sizing in practice
Unisex means one set of measurements for everyone, not separate men's and women's cuts. The shoulder line is straight and the length covers the hips.
- A more relaxed fit, or layers underneath → one size up
- A classic fit with no oversized effect → your own size
Instruction for being between two sizes: take the larger for a more relaxed hoodie fit. Jumping two sizes is not recommended, because it also changes the shoulder line and the sleeve length.
Hoodie decision tree
- Do you often wear merino or a thick t-shirt under the hoodie? Yes → one size up.
- Do you want a more relaxed, street-style fit? Yes → one size up.
- Are you broad in the shoulders or long in the back? Yes → consider the larger, for length and shoulder line.
Otherwise your own size is enough.
Common mistakes and fixes
Mistake 1: comparing the width measurement to a chest circumference.
Fix: measure the garment flat, armpit to armpit. Do not double it.
Mistake 2: ordering smaller “because it will stretch”.
Fix: a dense 288 g/m² knit does not stretch out the way a light fabric does. Take the right size straight away.
Mistake 3: not allowing for layers.
Fix: one size up if merino or a heavy t-shirt goes underneath.
Mistake 4: washing hot or tumble drying.
Fix: 30-40 °C inside out, no dryer. Shape it while damp.
Checklist before buying
- Reference garment measured flat, armpit to armpit
- The number is a width, not a circumference
- Layers under the hoodie accounted for
- Fit chosen: classic or relaxed
- ±1-3 cm tolerance accounted for
If you cannot measure
- Hoodies and t-shirts: M or L is a safe choice as a gift. L to XL for someone tall or broad-shouldered.
- If unsure: go one size more relaxed.
- Cap: one size, adjustable. A safe gift.
Buying as a gift has its own piece.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Are the hoodies and t-shirts unisex?
A: Yes. Always compare the measurements against the chart before ordering.
Q: Is the number in the chart a chest circumference?
A: No. It is the chest width, armpit to armpit, with the garment laid flat.
Q: How much will it shrink?
A: A little in the first wash is possible. Wash at 30-40 °C and avoid the dryer, and the change stays small.
Q: Which size is chosen between two sizes?
A: The larger for a hoodie, especially with layers underneath. For a t-shirt the cut is already relaxed, so the smaller gives a more normal fit.
Q: What if the size is still wrong?
A: There is a 14-day right of withdrawal from delivery. Notify first by email at hq@poterostandard.fi. The item must be unused, unwashed and resaleable. Trying it on is fine.
Short summary
Measure a reference garment flat, compare against the chart and remember: the numbers are widths. Between two sizes, the larger is usually the right choice for a hoodie. Since the garments are made to order, that one minute with a tape measure is worth spending.
Full chart for every product: size guide
