Taking Measurements: Sport Coat Edition

Taking measurements for a sports coat can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can ensure you get the perfect fit. First, it's important to have the right tools: a measuring tape, a well-fitting jacket, and a bit of patience. Next, identify the key areas for measurement: the shoulders, chest, waist, hips, and sleeves. Measure the width of your shoulders from the back, ensuring the tape is level. Then, measure your chest circumference by wrapping the tape around the fullest part of your chest, under your armpits. For women, measure the bust instead. To find your waist, identify the natural crease by bending to one side and wrapping the tape around your torso at that point. The sleeve length is measured from the base of your neck to your wrist, with your arm bent at the hip. Finally, measure your hip circumference at the widest point, wrapping the tape around your buttocks. Now you have the key measurements needed to find your perfect sports coat!

Shoulder width

When measuring for a sport coat, it's important to get an accurate shoulder width measurement. This will ensure that the coat fits well and doesn't hang too loosely or feel too tight across the shoulders. Here's a step-by-step guide to measuring your shoulder width:

Put on a Well-Fitting Shirt:

Start by putting on a shirt that fits you well. Ideally, choose a tailored dress shirt, as the seams will help guide the tape measure. If you don't have a tailored shirt, any shirt that fits correctly in the shoulder area will work.

Stand with Good Posture:

Stand up straight in front of a mirror, so you can see yourself from all angles. Ensure your back is straight, and let your shoulders hang naturally in a relaxed position.

Identify the Shoulder Points:

The shoulder points are marked by your acromion bones, located at the upper tips of your shoulders. These are the points where the shoulder meets the arm, or where the shoulder begins to curve down into the arm. If you're wearing a well-fitting dress shirt, the shoulder seams on the back of your shirt should align with these points.

Take the Measurement:

Now, it's time to take the measurement. Place the end of the tape measure flat against your back at one of the shoulder points. Measure up and over the curve of your shoulders, across your back, and then back down to the outside edge of the other shoulder point. Ensure the tape measure follows the natural curve of your shoulders. It should not be horizontally straight but bend subtly along with your shoulder's shape.

Double-Check with a Jacket Measurement:

Additionally, you can double-check your shoulder width measurement by measuring a jacket you already own that fits you well. Lay the jacket face down and smooth out the body of the jacket. Measure from where the shoulder seam meets the sleeve on one side, straight across to where the shoulder seam and sleeve meet on the other side. This will give you a good indication of the shoulder width you should look for in a sport coat.

Note Down the Measurement:

Finally, note down your shoulder width measurement. This measurement will be important when selecting a sport coat that fits you perfectly.

By following these steps, you can ensure you have an accurate shoulder width measurement, which is crucial for achieving a well-fitting sport coat.

Chest circumference

To measure the chest circumference of a sports coat, you will need a measuring tape and a friend to help you.

First, wear a dress shirt or polo, and stand with your arms at your sides, shoulders straight but relaxed, and feet hip-width apart. Breathe naturally and have your friend start the measuring tape snugly in your armpit, wrapping it securely and levelly around your torso at this point. When the two ends of the tape meet, write down the measurement. This is your chest circumference and jacket size. For example, if your chest circumference is 40”, your jacket size is 40.

If you have a portly, super muscular, or big and tall figure, you should also take an overarm measurement. Stand with the same straight but relaxed posture, arms hanging at your sides, and ask your friend to wrap the tape around the outside of your arms at the same armpit level. Ensure the tape crosses the widest part of your chest as it circles your arms and torso. Do not flex your arms or chest, and try to remain relaxed. If the difference between your chest and overarm measurements is 7” or more, subtract 7 from your overarm measurement and use that number as your chest size.

It is important to note that sports coats typically have a looser, slightly bulkier fit than a suit jacket. Therefore, if the jacket had the same circumference as your chest, it would be too tight.

Waist circumference

To measure the waist circumference of a sports coat, you will need a measuring tape and a jacket.

First, button the jacket up fully and lay it on a flat, hard surface to ensure accuracy. Then, lay the jacket on its back and use your hands to extend and flatten out the torso completely. On a two-button jacket, position the measuring tape straight along the top button. On a three-button jacket, the measuring tape should pass right through the middle button. Measure straight across from one edge of the jacket waist to the other edge.

Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight for comfort. Take note of this number and compare it to the size chart of the jacket.

Sleeve length

To measure the sleeve length of a sport coat, you will need a flexible measuring tape and a friend to help with the measurements.

First, put on a long-sleeve shirt and identify the seam where the sleeve meets the body of the shirt. This is where you will start measuring. Measure from the outside of your arm down to your wrist, or slightly above it, depending on your preference. This is your outer sleeve length. You can also measure the inner sleeve length by starting from your armpit and measuring to the same spot on the inside of your wrist.

Next, stand up straight with your arms at your sides and shoulders relaxed. Start measuring from the back and centre of your neck, then trace the tape over the top of your shoulder and down to the end of your wrist. Be sure to trace over the top of your shoulder, not along your shoulder blade, as this will make the sleeve length appear shorter.

When measuring, keep the tape straight and snug against your arm, but not too tight. You should be able to move your arm comfortably. The sleeve should typically end at the base of your wrist bone or slightly above it.

After you've taken your measurements, compare them to a size chart to check the fit. The sleeve should be long enough to cover your shirt cuff but not so long that it bunches up or looks sloppy. It should also allow for movement, so you can raise your arms without the sleeve riding up.

If you're buying a sport coat online, you can usually find the sleeve length measurement in the product description or sizing chart. Compare these measurements to your own to ensure a good fit.

Jacket length

The jacket length is a crucial measurement when determining the right fit for a sport coat. Here are some detailed tips and instructions on how to measure jacket length:

Measuring Your Body for Jacket Length:

Start by taking off any thick clothing, such as sweaters or bulky jackets, as these can distort your measurements. You want to measure as close to your body as possible. Place the measuring tape at the top of your shoulder and extend it straight down the front of your chest. Decide where you want the jacket to end and stop measuring there. This is your ideal jacket length. For a standard blazer or sport coat, a good rule of thumb is to measure down to the top of your thigh. However, women often prefer a cropped jacket, as it creates a leg-lengthening effect.

Measuring a Jacket That Already Fits You:

Lay the jacket flat on a surface, facing up. Button or zip it up, ensuring the sleeves are not bent, to get accurate measurements. Starting from the base of the collar, measure straight down to the bottom hem of the jacket. If you like the length, use this measurement to find similar jackets. However, keep in mind that jacket length is a matter of personal preference and style.

Understanding Jacket Length Sizes:

When understanding the length of a jacket, the letter after the jacket size indicates the length. Your options are "short" (S), "regular" (R), "long" (L), or "extra long" (XL). A "short" jacket is suitable for individuals 5'8" and shorter, while a "regular" fit is recommended for people between 5'9" and 6' tall. "Long" jackets are typically chosen by individuals between 6'1" and 6'4", and anyone 6'5" or taller should opt for "extra long."

Frequently asked questions