How to read a size chart for custom jerseys when you’re between sizes

Ordering a custom jersey online can feel uncertain when your measurements fall between two listed sizes. A jersey that fits well should allow comfortable movement without looking loose, while a design that is too small can pull across the chest, shoulders, or waist. The right choice depends on more than a single number.

The size chart is your best starting point, but it must be read alongside the jersey’s cut, fabric, intended fit, and measurement instructions. Custom team jerseys may fit differently from casual tops, especially when they use athletic shaping, stretch panels, or a longer body length.

Learning how to compare your measurements with the chart helps reduce guesswork. It also makes it easier to decide whether you should size up, choose the smaller option, or contact customer service before placing a personalized order.

Start with accurate body measurements

Use a soft measuring tape and measure over a thin shirt or light base layer. Keep the tape level and comfortably close to your body without pulling it tight. If possible, have another person take the measurements so the tape does not tilt or shift.

The chest or bust measurement is usually the most important figure for a jersey. Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, passing beneath your arms and across your shoulder blades. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides while measuring.

Your waist and hip measurements may also matter, particularly for fitted jerseys or longer styles. Measure the natural waist and the fullest part of the hips. Write down each result in the unit used by the store, such as inches or centimeters, before comparing it with the chart.

Understand what each chart number means

A size chart may list body measurements, finished garment measurements, or both. Body measurements describe the person the size is designed to fit. Garment measurements describe the jersey itself, which should be larger than your body in areas where ease is needed.

Check the labels around the chart carefully. “Chest,” “body width,” and “half chest” are not always interchangeable. A half-chest measurement is often taken across the garment from armpit to armpit, so it may need to be doubled for a rough full-width comparison.

Also look for instructions about where to measure. Some stores measure a garment flat, while others provide a recommended body range. When the chart uses finished jersey dimensions, compare them with a similar shirt you already own. Lay that shirt flat, measure it in the same places, and compare the results.

Length deserves attention as well. A jersey can fit across the chest but feel too short when you raise your arms, or too long if you prefer a neat everyday silhouette. Compare shoulder-to-hem length with a familiar garment rather than relying only on the size letter.

Compare the two nearby sizes

When your measurement sits between two sizes, write down the difference between your measurement and each size range. Then consider how much room you want through the chest and waist. A close fit may suit a lightweight, stretchy jersey, while a looser fit is often more comfortable over a T-shirt or protective layer.

Use the largest relevant measurement as your safety guide. For example, if your chest aligns with a medium but your hips align with a large, the larger size may provide a better overall fit. A jersey that feels slightly roomy can often be styled comfortably, while excess tension across a personalized print can affect both appearance and durability.

The cut can change the decision. A relaxed unisex jersey may run generously, while a women’s or body-conscious shape may need more room. Review product details and photos for clues about the silhouette, but treat the published measurement chart as the primary reference.

Consider movement and layering

Think about how the jersey will be worn rather than how it looks when standing still. If you will wear it for basketball, cycling, training, or cheering, lift your arms, rotate your shoulders, and bend forward while testing a similar garment. The fabric should not restrict motion across the upper back or underarms.

Layering also affects the best size. A jersey worn over a tank top needs less room than one worn over a sweatshirt or compression top. If the item is intended for warm-weather casual wear, your usual close-fitting size may be appropriate. For events in cooler conditions, sizing up can make the garment more practical.

Sleeve openings, shoulder width, and torso length are easy to overlook. A larger chest measurement will not solve every fit issue if the shoulders are too wide or the sleeves are too long. Review all available dimensions, especially when the jersey has a structured collar, dropped shoulder, or extended hem.

Check the fit of similar clothing

Find a shirt or jersey that already fits you well and measure it flat. Compare its chest width, shoulder span, sleeve length, and overall length with the custom jersey chart. This provides a useful reference when your body measurements fall between standard size ranges.

Pay attention to how that reference garment feels during movement. A shirt that looks good but pulls at the chest may be a poor comparison. Similarly, an oversized top can make you choose a larger jersey than necessary.

Regional collections may also feature different team styles or garment cuts. When browsing a collection such as Owensboro jerseys, inspect the individual product information rather than assuming every design has identical dimensions. Customization details, fabric composition, and construction can influence the final feel.

Use customer support before personalizing

For a custom item, resolving uncertainty before entering a name, number, or other design detail is especially important. Keep your measurements ready and contact the store with the size chart values that seem unclear. Ask whether the listed dimensions refer to the body or finished garment and whether the style is intended to fit close or relaxed.

You can also ask about shrinkage, stretch, sleeve length, and the space available for layering. If two measurements point to different sizes, describe both rather than focusing only on your chest measurement. Clear information gives customer service a better basis for guidance.

Review the store’s exchange and shipping policies before completing the order. Personalized products may have different return conditions from standard apparel. Save a copy of the chart, product details, and your order information so you can refer to the exact version used when selecting your size.

A practical decision checklist

• Measure your chest, waist, hips, and preferred jersey length accurately.
• Confirm whether the chart shows body measurements or finished garment dimensions.
• Compare the chart with a similar jersey that fits well.
• Choose the larger size when you need layering room, fall near the upper limit, or prefer relaxed movement.
• Contact customer service when measurements point to different sizes or the fit description is unclear.

Once your measurements, intended use, and preferred fit all point in the same direction, select the size that gives the most useful room without losing the jersey’s shape. Recheck personalization details and policy information before submitting the order, then keep your measurement notes for future apparel purchases.

Browse the available designs, compare each product’s measurements, and reach out to TBL Store customer service when you need help choosing between two sizes. A few careful checks before ordering can make your custom jersey more comfortable, wearable, and satisfying when it arrives.