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NFL Jersey Size Guide: How to Find Your Perfect Fit in 2026
Nothing kills game day faster than a jersey that doesn't fit. Too tight and you're swapping it at halftime. too baggy and you're swimming in fabric. Getting the right NFL jersey size isn't complicated — but the difference between replica and authentic cuts, plus Nike's recent sizing changes, means a lot of fans are ordering the wrong size.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know: how to measure yourself, Nike's current sizing chart, the fit difference between Game and Limited jerseys, and pro tips for ordering online.
Step 1: Measure Yourself Correctly
Before you look at any size chart, grab a soft measuring tape. You only need one measurement: your chest circumference.
Step 2: Size Charts by Group
Men's Sizes
| Size | Chest (inches) | Chest (cm) | Body Length (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 35-37 | 89-94 | 30 |
| M | 38-40 | 97-102 | 31 |
| L | 41-43 | 104-109 | 32 |
| XL | 44-46 | 112-117 | 33 |
| 2XL | 47-49 | 119-124 | 34 |
| 3XL | 50-52 | 127-132 | 35 |
Women's Sizes
Women's jerseys are cut narrower through the shoulders and waist with a contoured fit. They typically run true to women's t-shirt sizing, but if you prefer a roomier fit, size up one.
| Size | Chest (inches) | Chest (cm) | Dress Size Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 34-36 | 86-91 | 4-6 |
| M | 37-39 | 94-99 | 8-10 |
| L | 40-42 | 102-107 | 12-14 |
| XL | 43-45 | 109-114 | 16-18 |
| 2XL | 46-48 | 117-122 | 20-22 |
Youth & Kids Sizes
Youth jerseys use age-based sizing. For kids between age groups, always size up — they grow fast, and a slightly roomy jersey lasts an extra season.
| Size | Age | Chest (inches) | Chest (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 4-5 | 22-24 | 56-61 |
| S | 6-7 | 25-27 | 64-69 |
| M | 8-10 | 28-30 | 71-76 |
| L | 12-14 | 31-34 | 79-86 |
| XL | 16-18 | 35-38 | 89-97 |
International Size Conversion
| US | UK | EU | Chest (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | S | 46-48 | 89-94 |
| M | M | 50-52 | 97-102 |
| L | L | 54-56 | 104-109 |
| XL | XL | 58-60 | 112-117 |
| 2XL | XXL | 62-64 | 119-124 |
| 3XL | 3XL | 66-68 | 127-132 |
Women's Sizes
Women's jerseys are cut narrower through the shoulders and waist with a contoured fit. They typically run true to women's t-shirt sizing, but if you prefer a roomier fit, size up one.
| Size | Chest (inches) | Chest (cm) | Dress Size Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 34-36 | 86-91 | 4-6 |
| M | 37-39 | 94-99 | 8-10 |
| L | 40-42 | 102-107 | 12-14 |
| XL | 43-45 | 109-114 | 16-18 |
| 2XL | 46-48 | 117-122 | 20-22 |
Youth & Kids Sizes
Youth jerseys use age-based sizing. For kids between age groups, always size up — they grow fast, and a slightly roomy jersey lasts an extra season.
| Size | Age | Chest (inches) | Chest (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 4-5 | 22-24 | 56-61 |
| S | 6-7 | 25-27 | 64-69 |
| M | 8-10 | 28-30 | 71-76 |
| L | 12-14 | 31-34 | 79-86 |
| XL | 16-18 | 35-38 | 89-97 |
International Size Conversion
| US | UK | EU | Chest (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | S | 46-48 | 89-94 |
| M | M | 50-52 | 97-102 |
| L | L | 54-56 | 104-109 |
| XL | XL | 58-60 | 112-117 |
| 2XL | XXL | 62-64 | 119-124 |
| 3XL | 3XL | 66-68 | 127-132 |
Step 3: Understand the Fit Difference
Game Jersey (Replica) — Most Popular
The most affordable option with a relaxed, standard fit. Screen-printed numbers and lettering. This is the one most fans should buy.
Limited Jersey (Premium Replica)
A step up with stitched tackle twill numbers. Slightly more tailored than Game. The best balance of quality and value.
Elite Jersey (Authentic)
The on-field jersey with the slimmest, most athletic fit. Designed to be worn over pads. Most fans need to size up. For a full breakdown of what separates the three tiers — stitching, patches, price and resale — see NFL jersey types explained.
Step 4: Sizing Tips by Body Type
| Body Type | Game (Replica) | Limited | Elite (Authentic) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slim / Athletic | True to size | True to size | Size up 1 |
| Average build | Size up 1 | True to size | Size up 1-2 |
| Broad shoulders | Size up 1 | Size up 1 | Size up 2 |
| Want loose fit | Size up 2 | Size up 1-2 | Consider Game |
If you are shopping for a specific week rather than the whole season, our NFL Week 1 jersey buzz round-up shows which shirts are moving fastest right now.
Common Sizing Mistakes
1. Assuming t-shirt size translates directly. Nike NFL jerseys run slightly smaller than standard t-shirts.
2. Ignoring the fit tier. A Large Game and a Large Elite are not the same fit.
3. Ordering based on height only. Chest circumference is the primary sizing factor.
4. Forgetting shrinkage. Wash cold and hang dry to preserve fit.
How to Wash & Care for Your Jersey
Proper care keeps colors bright and prevents numbers from peeling. Follow these rules:
- Wash cold — Hot water breaks down adhesive on printed numbers and fades dyes.
- Turn inside out — Protects the printed or stitched details from rubbing against other clothes.
- Mild detergent only — Avoid bleach and fabric softener. Bleach discolors fabric; softener breaks down print adhesive.
- Hang dry — Never put a jersey in the dryer. Heat is the number one cause of peeling numbers and shrinkage.
- Don't iron — Ironing melts prints and scorches polyester. If wrinkled, use a steamer held a few inches away.
- Store flat or on a wide hanger — Thin hangers stretch shoulders over time. Fold neatly or use a padded hanger.
Still Not Sure?
If you're between sizes, size up. A slightly roomy jersey is comfortable. A too-tight jersey is unwearable. Most fans land on a Game jersey first — the Patrick Mahomes Chiefs Game jersey at $57.60 is our best seller.
For a deep dive into the three NFL jersey tiers (Game, Limited, Elite), see our NFL jersey types guide. For quality differences between tiers, check out our Replica vs Authentic comparison guide. And for basketball fans, our Best NBA Jerseys 2026-27 ranking. And if you want to know which shirts are moving fastest right now, our best-selling NFL jerseys ranking covers the whole top 25.