How to Choose the Right Jersey Size for MLB Jersey – Buying Guide A-Z

Finding the perfect MLB jersey is about more than just representing your favorite team—it’s about comfort, style, and getting the right fit for your body and preferences. Whether you’re planning to wear your jersey to the ballpark, for casual outings, or as a collector’s item, proper sizing ensures you’ll love your purchase for years to come.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about MLB jersey sizing, from understanding different jersey types to measuring yourself correctly and navigating size charts with confidence.

I. Introduction to MLB Jersey Sizing

Selecting the correct MLB jersey size matters for several important reasons:

• Comfort: A well-fitting jersey feels better during long game days or extended wear
• Appearance: The right size showcases your team pride with a flattering silhouette
• Performance: If you’re active while wearing your jersey, proper sizing ensures freedom of movement
• Value: Correctly sized jerseys maintain their shape and condition better over time

MLB jerseys come in various styles and fits—authentic (on-field), replica, women’s-specific cuts, and youth sizes—each with unique sizing characteristics. What works for one person or jersey type might not work for another.

Throughout this guide, we’ll help you navigate these options to find your perfect fit, whether you’re purchasing for yourself, as a gift, or for a growing young fan.

II. Understanding MLB Jersey Types and Fits

Before diving into specific measurements, it’s crucial to understand the different types of MLB jerseys available and how each one fits:

Authentic On-Field Jerseys

• Professional-grade jerseys identical to what MLB players wear on the field
• Manufactured by Nike (current official MLB partner)
• Athletic/slim fit designed for performance
• Typically runs smaller and tighter than replica jerseys
• Features premium materials, stitched (not printed) details
• More structured shoulders and tapered waist
• Higher price point reflects professional quality

Replica Jerseys

• Consumer-focused versions of team jerseys
• More relaxed, generous fit compared to authentics
• Typically screen-printed details rather than stitched
• More affordable option for casual fans
• Better for layering over other clothing
• Usually fits similar to a standard t-shirt, but slightly looser

Batting Practice/Spring Training Jerseys

• Lighter material designed for active wear
• More breathable than game jerseys
• Generally fits between authentic and replica in terms of cut
• Often features mesh panels or ventilation elements
• Typically a more athletic cut than replicas

Throwback/Vintage/Mitchell & Ness Jerseys

• Reproduce designs from past eras
• Sizing can vary significantly based on the era being reproduced
• Often run large to mimic the baggier fits of certain decades
• May use different sizing systems (numbered vs. lettered)
• Check brand-specific size charts, as these can differ from modern jerseys

Summary of Fit Characteristics

Jersey Type	Overall Fit	Shoulder Width	Body Length	Recommended For
Authentic	Slim/Athletic	Structured, fitted	Standard to slightly shorter	Performance wear, authentic look
Replica	Relaxed/Casual	Looser, more comfortable	Standard	Everyday wear, comfort, layering
Batting Practice	Athletic/Performance	Moderate, allows movement	Standard	Active wear, warmer weather
Throwback	Varies by era	Often wider	Often longer	Vintage style, collectors

III. MLB Jersey Size Charts (Men’s, Women’s, Youth)

Men’s Authentic Jersey Size Chart (Nike)

Size	Chest (inches)	Waist (inches)	Hip (inches)
S	35-38	29-32	35-38
M	38-41	32-35	38-41
L	41-44	35-38	41-44
XL	44-48	38-42	44-48
2XL	48-52	42-46	48-52
3XL	52-56	46-50	52-56
4XL	56-60	50-54	56-60

Men’s Replica Jersey Size Chart

Size	Chest (inches)	Waist (inches)	Hip (inches)
S	34-36	28-30	34-36
M	38-40	32-34	38-40
L	42-44	36-38	42-44
XL	46-48	40-42	46-48
2XL	50-52	44-46	50-52
3XL	54-56	48-50	54-56
4XL	58-60	52-54	58-60

Women’s Jersey Size Chart

Size	Chest (inches)	Waist (inches)	Hip (inches)
XS	31-32	23-24	33-34
S	33-34	25-26	35-36
M	35-36	27-28	37-38
L	37-39	29-31	39-41
XL	40-42	32-34	42-44
2XL	43-45	35-37	45-47

Youth Jersey Size Chart

Size	Height (inches)	Weight (lbs)	Chest (inches)
S (8)	49-52	55-75	26-28
M (10-12)	53-58	76-95	29-31
L (14-16)	59-62	96-115	32-34
XL (18-20)	63-66	116-135	35-37

When using these charts, remember:

• Measurements represent body measurements, not the garment dimensions
• Charts can vary slightly between manufacturers and jersey models
• Nike (current MLB partner) tends to run slightly smaller than previous manufacturers
• When between sizes, consider your intended use (layering vs. standalone wear)
• For authentic jerseys, consider sizing up if you’re on the border between sizes

IV. How to Measure Yourself for an MLB Jersey

Taking accurate measurements is the most reliable way to find your perfect jersey size. Follow these steps for best results:

1. Gather Your Tools

• Flexible measuring tape (cloth or plastic, not metal)
• Mirror (or a friend to help)
• Paper and pen to record measurements
• The clothing you plan to wear under your jersey (if any)

2. Measure Your Chest/Bust

• Stand naturally with arms relaxed at your sides
• Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest/bust
• Keep the tape horizontal and snug (not tight) against your body
• For men: Measure just under your armpits, across the fullest part of your chest
• For women: Measure at the fullest part of your bust

3. Measure Your Waist

• Find your natural waistline (typically the narrowest part of your torso)
• Wrap the measuring tape around, keeping it parallel to the floor
• Measure after exhaling normally
• Don’t suck in or expand your stomach

4. Measure Your Hips (Optional but Helpful)

• Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks
• Keep the tape horizontal and comfortably snug

5. Measure Your Height (For Youth Sizing)

• Stand against a wall without shoes
• Make a small mark at the top of your head
• Measure from the floor to the mark

Tips for Accurate Measurement

• Wear minimal clothing or form-fitting clothes when measuring
• If you plan to wear layers under your jersey, measure while wearing them
• Have someone help you for more accurate readings
• Take each measurement twice to confirm accuracy
• Stand naturally—don’t flex or slouch

Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid

• Using a metal tape measure that doesn’t contour to your body
• Pulling the tape too tight
• Letting the tape sag or twist
• Measuring over bulky clothing (unless that’s how you’ll wear the jersey)
• Relying solely on your regular shirt size without measuring

V. Fit Preferences: Loose vs. Fitted, Layering, and Style

The “right” fit for your MLB jersey depends largely on your personal preferences and how you plan to wear it:

Considering Your Intended Use

For Game Day at the Ballpark:

• Consider the weather and if you’ll need to layer underneath
• In colder months, sizing up allows room for sweatshirts or hoodies
• In summer, a more fitted authentic style may be more comfortable

For Casual Streetwear:

• Current fashion tends toward oversized, relaxed fits
• Many fans size up for a more contemporary, casual look
• Consider how you want the jersey to hang and how much movement you need

For Collectors:

• If primarily for display or occasional wear, authentic sizing is often preferred
• Consider whether preservation or wearability is more important

When to Size Up

• If you plan to layer underneath with hoodies or sweatshirts
• If you prefer a looser, more relaxed fit
• If you’re between sizes on the measurement chart
• If you have broader shoulders or a larger chest compared to your waist
• If you’re purchasing an authentic jersey (they run smaller than replicas)

When to Stay True to Size

• If you prefer a more fitted, athletic look
• If you’re purchasing a replica jersey (already cut more generously)
• If you typically wear the jersey in warmer weather without layers
• If you have proportional measurements that align with size charts

When to Size Down

• If you have previous experience with a brand running large
• If you prefer a more fitted look with replica jerseys
• If your measurements fall between sizes and you won’t be layering

VI. Special Considerations for Women’s and Youth Jerseys

Women’s Jerseys

Women’s MLB jerseys are cut differently than men’s versions to accommodate different body proportions:

• More tapered waistline
• Shorter overall length
• Narrower shoulders
• More room in the bust and hips
• Often more fitted through the body

Tips for Women Choosing Jerseys:

• Women with straighter body types might prefer men’s jerseys for a looser fit
• Consider your bust measurement carefully when selecting a size
• Women’s jerseys typically run smaller than men’s of the “same” size
• Some women prefer men’s jerseys for a more traditional, boxy baseball look
• If between sizes, consider how fitted you want the jersey to appear

Youth Jerseys

Youth jerseys require special consideration, especially for growing children:

• Consider growth room, particularly for expensive authentic jerseys
• Youth sizes correlate roughly to age but vary by brand
• Focus on height and weight when selecting size, not just age
• Youth jerseys are shorter in length than adult versions

Tips for Parents Buying Youth Jerseys:

• When in doubt, size up to allow for growth
• Consider how active the child will be while wearing the jersey
• For very young fans, replica jerseys offer better value as they’ll likely outgrow it quickly
• Youth XL is often similar to an Adult Small if you’re between youth and adult sizing
• Check sleeve length, as youth jerseys have proportionally shorter sleeves

VII. Brand and Model Variations

Jersey sizing can vary significantly between manufacturers and even between different models from the same brand:

Nike (Current Official MLB Partner)

• Tends to run slightly smaller and more athletic than previous manufacturers
• More tapered fit through the body
• Authentic versions especially run small and fitted

Majestic (Previous MLB Partner)

• Generally more generous fit than Nike
• More room in the shoulders and chest
• If you’re used to Majestic sizing, consider sizing up with Nike

Mitchell & Ness (Throwback Jerseys)

• Sizing varies widely depending on the era being reproduced
• Often runs large to replicate vintage styles
• Check specific product reviews for sizing guidance

Fanatics Branded

• Usually runs true to size or slightly larger
• More casual, relaxed fit similar to a t-shirt
• Good option for fans who prefer looser fits

When switching between brands or if you’re unfamiliar with a specific manufacturer:

• Always check brand-specific size charts
• Read customer reviews for sizing feedback
• Consider ordering multiple sizes to try if purchasing online
• Look for mentions of “runs small” or “runs large” in product descriptions

VIII. Common Sizing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many fans make these common mistakes when selecting their MLB jersey size:

• Assuming your regular shirt size is your jersey size: Jersey sizing often differs from everyday clothing
• Not accounting for layering: Forgetting to consider what you’ll wear underneath can lead to an uncomfortable fit
• Ignoring specific brand sizing: Different manufacturers have different sizing standards
• Focusing only on chest measurement: Shoulder width and jersey length also impact comfort
• Not considering the specific jersey type: Authentic vs. replica fits vary significantly
• Buying for current fit only: Not considering shrinkage or how the jersey will break in
• Relying on size names without checking measurements: An XL in one brand may fit like a L in another

Quick Tips to Avoid Sizing Mistakes:

• Always measure yourself before purchasing
• Read product reviews from other customers
• Consider how you’ll wear the jersey (layered or not)
• Check return policies before ordering
• When possible, try on in person
• Remember that authentic jerseys run smaller than replicas
• Consider how the material might shrink or stretch with wear and washing

IX. MLB Jersey Sizing FAQs

Q: Should I size up if I plan to wear hoodies underneath my jersey? A: Yes, especially with authentic jerseys. Consider going up one size to accommodate layers comfortably without stretching the jersey.

Q: What’s the difference between numbered sizing (40, 44, 48) and lettered sizing (S, M, L)? A: Numbered sizing is traditionally used for authentic on-field jerseys and refers to chest measurement in inches. Lettered sizing (S, M, L) is used for replicas and consumer versions. Numbered sizing tends to be more precise but less forgiving.

Q: How does MLB jersey sizing compare to NBA or NFL jerseys? A: MLB authentic jerseys typically run smaller and more fitted than NBA jerseys, which are designed for movement and layering. NFL jerseys are generally cut fuller in the shoulders and chest. If you wear a large in NBA, you might need an XL in MLB authentic jerseys.

Q: Which jersey type is best for collectors versus casual fans? A: Collectors often prefer authentic jerseys for their professional-grade quality and accuracy. Casual fans typically find replica jerseys more comfortable for everyday wear and more affordable for building a collection of different players or teams.

Q: Can I tailor my MLB jersey for a better fit? A: Yes, but it’s best to use a professional tailor experienced with athletic wear. Simple alterations like hemming length or taking in sides are possible, but extensive alterations may damage special fabrics or features. It’s generally better to find the right size initially than to plan on major alterations.

Q: Do MLB jerseys shrink after washing? A: Modern authentic and replica jerseys are designed to maintain their size with proper care. Follow the care instructions—typically cold water wash and hang dry—to prevent shrinkage. Authentic jerseys with stitched elements should be handled with special care.

Q: Are women’s jerseys just smaller men’s jerseys? A: No, women’s jerseys have a different cut with more tapering at the waist, shorter overall length, and proportions designed for female body types. They’re not simply scaled-down men’s jerseys.

Q: How do I choose between youth and adult sizes for teenagers? A: Check measurements carefully. A Youth XL is similar to an Adult Small but with shorter length and sleeves. For teens, consider current size and growth potential. When in doubt, adult small is often better for teenagers who are still growing.

X. Conclusion & Quick Reference Guide

Choosing the right MLB jersey size comes down to understanding your body measurements, considering how you’ll wear the jersey, and knowing the differences between jersey types. Remember:

1. Measure yourself accurately before purchasing
2. Consider your intended use and layering needs
3. Be aware of differences between authentic and replica fits
4. Account for brand variations in sizing
5. When in doubt between sizes, authentic jerseys typically benefit from sizing up, while replicas may be fine at your regular size

Quick Reference Guide

If You Want:	Consider This Size:
Athletic, on-field look	Authentic in your measured size or one size up
Comfortable, casual fit	Replica in your regular t-shirt size
Room for layering	Size up one from your measured size
Women’s fitted style	Women’s specific jersey in measured size
Room for growing children	Youth size based on current measurements plus one size
Vintage/throwback look	Check specific brand recommendations, often size down

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to select the perfect MLB jersey size that offers both comfort and style as you support your favorite team. Remember that the right jersey is one that makes you feel great while wearing it—whether that’s at the ballpark, watching from home, or showing your team pride around town.

NOTE

Size Chart when purchase on my site