Nothing takes the shine off a new set of team uniforms faster than shirts that don’t fit. Because custom kits are made to order, sizing mistakes are expensive to fix. This guide explains how to collect sizes from your whole squad accurately, so every player gets a uniform that fits on the first try.
Why sizing goes wrong
Most sizing problems come from a few common mistakes:
- The coach or manager guesses sizes for players.
- Players choose the size they wear in a different brand, which may be cut differently.
- Youth players are ordered in sizes they will have outgrown by the start of the season.
- Sizes are collected in messages and group chats instead of one clear list.
Step 1: Get the size chart first
Before collecting any sizes, ask your manufacturer for the size chart for the exact garment you are ordering. Sizes vary between brands and between styles – a slim-fit jersey and a loose-fit jersey in the same “M” can be very different. Share the chart with every player.
Step 2: Measure, don’t guess
The most reliable way to choose a size is to measure a garment the player already likes the fit of:
- Chest width: lay the shirt flat and measure straight across, armpit to armpit.
- Length: measure from the highest point of the shoulder down to the bottom hem.
- Shorts waist: measure straight across the waistband when lying flat.
Compare those measurements with the size chart and choose the closest match. If a player is between sizes, most teams go up one size for playing kits so they aren’t restrictive.
Step 3: Use one master spreadsheet
Collect every order in a single spreadsheet. We recommend these columns:
| Player name (as printed) | Number | Jersey size | Shorts size | Socks / other | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SMITH | 7 | M | M | Senior | – |
| KHAN | 10 | L | M | Senior | Captain |
Keep the spelling of names exactly as they should appear on the shirt, including capitals and accents.
Step 4: Check the list before you send it
- Are there any duplicate numbers?
- Are all names spelled correctly? Ask players to confirm their own line.
- Do youth and adult sizes use the correct size range?
- Have you included goalkeepers, substitutes and coaching staff?
- Have you ordered a few spare kits in common sizes for new players during the season?
Tips for youth teams
Children grow quickly. If kits need to last the whole season, consider going up a size for younger players – especially if you are ordering well before the season starts. It’s also worth asking parents to measure at home using the size chart rather than guessing.
Use the sample to check fit
A pre-production sample isn’t only for checking colours and print quality – it’s also the perfect time to check fit. At Shazbro, nothing goes into bulk production until you approve your sample, so try it on a few players of different builds and confirm the size chart works for your squad.
Ready to order?
Send us your finished size list along with your design, colours and deadline, and we’ll take it from there. Request a quote, or read our guide on how to order custom soccer kits for the full process.