With 3.25 million units sold, German club Bayern Munich has the highest soccer shirt sales. That’s a ton of jerseys, and it doesn’t even scrape the surface of how many different jerseys are in the hands of players and fans.
Safe to say, soccer jerseys are in hot demand. But whether you’re wearing the jersey to support your favorite soccer team/player or for your own game, you want one that fits right. How do soccer jerseys fit and how can you buy the right size?
In this article, we’ll share what you need to know about soccer jerseys including:
- How they should fit
- Brand comparisons
- Size selection tips
- Styling tips
Read on to learn all about soccer jersey fit so you can look and feel your best when playing and supporting!
Why Are Soccer Jerseys So Tight?
One of the first things you may notice about soccer jerseys is that they tend to be fairly fitted. But, are soccer jerseys supposed to be tight?
Overall, a typical jersey fits like a slim-fit top. Simply put, they are meant to be fitted, not huge or baggy.
The reason why soccer jerseys are a bit tighter is for performance. Looser jerseys are more likely to get tangled around your legs and flop around as you try to move. A slimmer fit allows you to move without fabric flying in the way.
If you want to see an impressive collection, check out Messi’s soccer jersey room!
Do Soccer Jerseys Run Small?
The slimmer fit of soccer jerseys leads many people to believe they run small. While the answer varies depending on the brand and other factors, they typically do not run small.
Instead, they fit like a typical “athletic fit” or “slim fit” top. Of course, this means that some people may prefer a larger size, but it’s not always necessary to size up.
Let’s take a closer look at different brands:
Do Nike Soccer Jerseys Run Small?
First up is Nike. How do Nike soccer jerseys fit?
Nike jerseys are fairly consistent. They tend to run true to size regardless of where they are made/ purchased. Most people do not find them to run small.
Do Adidas Soccer Jerseys Run Small?
Compared to other brands, Adidas jerseys are known for having a slimmer fit. While this does not necessarily mean they run small, you can expect them to fit more snugly than the same size in other brands.
How Do Puma Soccer Jerseys Fit?
The key thing to note about PUMA jerseys is the difference between authentic and replica ones. In general, authentic jerseys tend to have a slighter fit because players prefer this for performance.
For PUMA, the difference is very noticeable, so you can expect their authentic jerseys to feel tighter than the same replica version.
Do Soccer Jerseys Shrink?
Most of us are familiar with the frustrating feeling of finally finding the perfect fit just for the wash to ruin it. Many clothes will shrink in the wash, requiring you to account for this when purchasing.
So, do soccer jerseys shrink in the wash?
Soccer jerseys are typically made from primarily polyester, and 100% polyester does not shrink a noticeable amount. However, uniforms with cotton in them will shrink, even if it is a poly-cotton blend.
If the jersey has any cotton in it, then it can shrink by up to 4%. Full cotton garments may shrink up to 10%, but fortunately, this is an uncommon material for soccer kits. Other materials that may shrink include Rayon and wool.
Here are some tips to prevent your jersey from shrinking:
- Know the material blend.
- Follow care instructions.
- Air dry or dry on low heat.
- Wash with other athletic clothing/ clothing with the same material.
- Do not use very hot water for washing.
What Size Soccer Jersey Should I Get?
When it comes to buying a soccer jersey, size matters! Since soccer jerseys are more fitted than loose, baggy American football jerseys, it may be difficult to know what size is best.
Soccer.com created this helpful sizing guide for the Nike USA jerseys. In the video, a man and woman each discuss their measurements, the jersey size they have, and what they do and do not like about the fit.
Here are some more tips that can help you choose the right size!
Intended Use
Are you purchasing a jersey to play in or to wear as a fan? The answer will inform which size jersey you should get.
As a player, you need to get the uniform that is most comfortable and effective for performance. If you are purchasing it as a fan, then you can simply choose whichever size is most comfortable for lounging.
Keep in mind that as a fan, you may get colder in the stands and thus may want a jersey that’s large enough to fit lawyers, sweatshirts, and jackets underneath.
In general, players tend to prefer a tighter fit than fans. Still, the choice is really up to your personal preference.
Brand
Remember that different brands may run smaller, larger, or truer to size. Consider this when shopping for a jersey.
For example, let’s say you are interested in an Adidas jersey. We know that these tend to be more fitted. Based on your preferred fit and intended use, you may need to get a larger size than normal to be comfortable.
Authentic vs Replica
Authentic jerseys tend to run smaller since players tend to prefer them that way. Replica jerseys are made for comfortable fan use, and thus tend to be looser fitting.
Use this information to choose the jersey that suits your preference. If you want a tighter fit, then ordering an authentic jersey in your true size may work. However, if you want a snugger fit and plan to buy a replica, then you may want to size down.
Not sure if a replica or authentic jersey is best for you? Read this helpful soccer jersey guide!
Most Popular Soccer Jerseys in 2021
Before you can get into styling your jersey, you need to know which one to get! Of course, support the players and teams you love. If you’re a player yourself, then you certainly need the jersey for your team!
Still, other fans are always a great point of inspiration.
Let’s take a look at the top soccer jerseys people purchased in 2021:
| Team Name | # of Jerseys Sold |
| Bayern Munich | 3.25 million |
| Real Madrid | 3.05 million |
| Liverpool | 2.45 million |
| Manchester United | 1.95 million |
| Juventus | 1.42 million |
How to Wear a Soccer Jersey Fashionably
Soccer jerseys are not just for playing. They make great wardrobe additions as well. You can style soccer jerseys for daily wear, and put together some fashionable outfits for gamedays.
Bryce Kicks on YoutTube has a very helpful video for how to style soccer jerseys
Here are a few tips that can help:
- Match the shoes to the jersey, opt for sneakers
- Check out vintage jersey
- Choose a jersey that suits you
- Consider a “streetwear” inspired look
- Layer with a bomber jacket or leather jacket
- Add accessories (watch, earrings, necklace, belt)
Conclusion
If you’re used to other sports jerseys, you may think soccer jerseys feel a bit snug. Fear not, they are designed to be more form-fitting. For players, this helps with performance.
That’s why there’s often a difference in cut/fit between authentic jerseys (the same ones the players wear) and replica jerseys (designed for fans). While replica jerseys are more comfortable for most fans, you should consider your own preferences when buying a soccer jersey.
When in doubt, try on jerseys from the brand you want to make the best decision. Just pay attention to the materials and follow the care instructions to avoid shrinkage!
In the words of an infamous sports psychologist,
Wear your jersey with pride and know you are playing for something bigger than yourself.
Dr. Julie Amato
Now you’re ready to get out there and buy the perfect-fitting jersey for your next soccer game, whether you’re on the field or in the stands.
