Everything you need to know about finding the right size kit — for youth, women’s and men’s teams

 

Football has its fair share of baffling rules. Just when you thought the offside rule was the hardest thing to explain, along comes kit sizing — and suddenly nobody’s sure what counts as a medium anymore.
And, as if that wasn’t enough, here’s why sizing can feel like refereeing without a rulebook:

  • Labels don’t always match – what’s a medium in one brand might be a small or even a large in another.
  • Brands cut differently – some are generous, others less so. A shirt labelled “to fit 38″ chest” could feel snug from one brand and roomy from another.
  • Style matters – slim, classic, or relaxed fits all feel different, even in the same size.
  • Age labels aren’t reliable – just because a size chart says “9–10 years” doesn’t guarantee it will fit every 9- or 10-year-old.

Why it’s important to get it right

A.k.a Bring on the Subs (or not)

For standard, off-the-shelf retail jerseys or kits, you might get a substitute in the form of returns or exchanges. But let’s be honest — it’s a hassle we could all do without. It means waiting longer for the right size, extra postage costs, and players left without a kit in the meantime.

And in the custom football kit sector, there are no subs available. Once a kit is personalised or made to order, it usually can’t be sent back. A couple of quick measurements now can save a lot of time later — and make sure every player steps out in a kit that fits as good as it looks.

What Size Football Kit Should I Buy?

The short answer? Don’t rely on what size you think you are – measure instead.

  • Most brands publish a “to fit” size guide, which refers to the body measurement of the person the shirt is designed for (e.g. “to fit chest 28 inches”). The football jersey itself is always cut slightly bigger for comfort and movement.
  • Some brands – including Appin Sports — also show key garment measurements. Got a favourite shirt already? Like the way it fits? Measure it and then cross-reference it with the garment information on the size chart to find a similar jersey.
  • Youth football kit sizes: Some charts use letters, some ages, some heights, some chest sizes – and some a combination of all four. Because children grow at different speeds, the best approach is always to measure their chest and compare it to the chart, rather than relying on age or height (or any of the other variables) alone.

How to Measure for a Football Shirt?

To find out your or your player’s chest measurement, follow these 4 steps:

  • Ask your player to stand naturally with arms relaxed.
  • Wrap a tape measure around the fullest part of their chest, under the arms.
  • Keep it level and snug, not tight.
  • Compare the measurement with the “to fit chest” column in the size chart.

Tip: If your player is between sizes, size up for growing or comfort room – especially with slim-fit shirts.

Women’s Football Kit Fit vs Unisex

Women’s cuts are designed differently to unisex or men’s jerseys. They’re typically:

  • Smaller across the shoulders for a closer fit
  • Slightly shorter in length
  • Shaped through the body to give a more tailored fit without restricting movement

Another key difference is the sleeves. In a unisex fit, the sleeves can end up much longer on an average woman than they would on an average man — sometimes reaching the elbow or even below. Women-specific jerseys are cut with shorter sleeves for a more balanced fit.

Some players prefer a unisex fit, while others like the more tailored women’s cut. If you’re choosing a women’s cut but prefer a looser feel, simply size up — go one size bigger than the chart suggests.

Check what sizes are available

It’s not just about finding the right fit – it’s also about making sure the sizes you need actually exist in the range. Some brands only offer a limited size run (for example, S–XL). That might work for many players, but it can leave younger kids or larger adults without a proper option — and no club wants one player left out in a different shirt.

That’s why it’s worth checking the full size spread before you commit to a brand, especially if you’re ordering for a whole squad.

Football Kit Sizing FAQs

What size football shirt does a 10-year-old wear?

  • In our Youth Football Kit size chart, an Age 9–10 shirt is designed to fit a 28″ chest. However, it’s important to recognise that kids of the same age are not the same size which is where the chest measurement comes in.

Is height a good way to pick a size for a youth football jersey?

  • Height can be a useful secondary check, but should only be used in conjunction with chest measurement. Just as two players who are 10 years old can have very different builds, so can those who are 140gsm tall. We recommend starting with chest measurement, and then using height as a cross-check.

Do football kits run small?

  • It depends on the brand and the cut.

Key Takeaways: Football Kit Sizing

  • Always measure, don’t guess – chest measurement is the most reliable way to choose the right size.
  • Youth sizes vary – age or height alone isn’t enough, always check against chest measurement.
  • Women’s vs unisex fit – women’s cuts are shorter, narrower at the shoulders, and have shorter sleeves; if you prefer looser, size up.

Finding Your Perfect Fit with Appin Sports

Want more detail? Check out the Appin Sports Size Chart or download their Football Kit Size Guide PDF that brings everything together in one place:

  • Kids’ & youth sizes (with chest, height, and garment measurements)
  • Women’s sizes
  • Men’s sizes
  • A step-by-step “How to Measure” guide

For other commonly asked questions about sizing and custom football kit, please refer to our FAQ.