How to Size Youth and Adult Team Uniforms (and Avoid Costly Reorders)

Wrong sizes are the most common reason for reorders, delays and unhappy players. The good news is that most sizing problems can be avoided with a simple process. Here is how coaches and team managers can collect accurate sizes for youth, adult and women's uniforms.

Why store sizes don't work

A player who wears a medium from one brand may need a large from another. Sizes also differ between countries. Custom uniforms are made to a size chart, so the safest approach is to measure each player's body and match those numbers to the manufacturer's chart.

What to measure

• Chest: around the fullest part of the chest, under the arms, with the tape level.
• Waist: around the natural waist, without pulling the tape tight.
• Hips: around the widest part of the seat, for pants and shorts.
• Inseam: for baseball, softball and football pants, from the crotch to the desired hem.

Measure over light clothing, standing relaxed. A soft tailor's tape is best. Write the numbers down rather than converting them to a size yourself.

Youth, adult and women's fits

Many rosters mix fits. High school teams may need both youth and adult sizes. Softball and volleyball teams often prefer women's fits, which are shaped differently through the chest, waist and hips. Choose the fit group first, then the size within it. Our size guides, such as the softball size guide, include men's/unisex, women's, boys'/youth and girls' fits.

Sport-specific tips

American football

Jerseys are worn over shoulder pads, so tell your manufacturer the pad size and whether you need padded or non-padded pants.

Baseball and softball

Confirm the jersey closure (full-button or placket), sleeve style and pant length. Some players prefer a looser jersey for throwing.

Basketball

Confirm jersey length and short inseam. Many players prefer longer shorts, so ask before you order.

7v7 and compression wear

These are designed to fit close. If a player is between sizes, choose based on their preference for a snug or relaxed fit.

When a player is between sizes

• For game jerseys worn over equipment, size up.
• For growing youth players, size up if the season is long.
• For compression and close-fit gear, size down only if the player prefers a tight fit.

Common sizing mistakes

• Collecting sizes by text message: players guess. Ask for measurements instead.
• Using last year's sizes: youth players grow quickly, so measure again every season.
• Mixing fit groups by accident: a women's medium and a unisex medium are different. Mark the fit group next to every size.
• Forgetting pants and shorts: tops and bottoms often need different sizes, so record both.
• No spares: new players join mid-season, and one late jersey can hold up a whole reorder.

Organize the size list

Use a simple spreadsheet with one row per player: name, number, fit group (youth, adult or women's), chest, waist and final size. Send this list with your order and keep a copy for future reorders.

Order a sample for large teams

For a big roster or a new supplier, order a sample in one or two common sizes. Let a few players try it on and compare it with the size chart before the full production run.

Plan for spares

Add a few spare jerseys in the most common sizes for new players and damage during the season. Reordering a single jersey later usually costs more and takes longer than adding it to the main order.

Need help with sizing? Send us your roster and we will help you match each player to the right size before production starts.