The right size depends first on what you’re going to do with the jersey, not on your chest measurement. Before you get out the measuring tape, only one question matters: what will you wear this jersey for? The answer determines which version to choose, and the version determines your sizing strategy.
Choosing your usual size in an Authentic Nike jersey is the most common mistake. If you wear a M T-shirt, you may well need an XL in an Authentic for a comfortable fit. This article explains why and how to avoid an unnecessary return.
First question: what’s the jersey for?
Three uses, three approaches. Identify your profile first.
Freedom of movement comes first. Choose Replica or Authentic depending on your level. If you choose Authentic: it’s a very fitted cut, so getting the right size is crucial. Too tight on the field, it quickly becomes uncomfortable.
Comfort comes first. The Replica is recommended. Choose your usual size or one size up if you like a loose fit. You’ll avoid the disappointment of an overly fitted Authentic.
Size matters less functionally. If you’ll also wear the jersey occasionally, avoid an overly fitted Authentic unless you have the physique of an elite athlete.
The rule that follows from all this: your intended use determines the version (Replica or Authentic), and the version determines your sizing strategy. In the next section, we explain why these two versions fit so differently.
Authentic vs. Replica: the fit difference no one clearly explains
This is the point every existing guide handles worst. These two versions aren’t just different in fabric or price: they have fundamentally different fits.
The Replica (Stadium at Nike, Fan at Adidas)
Standard fit, similar to a classic T-shirt. Choose your usual size. This version suits most body types and uses. It’s the version most fans wear, and for good reason: that’s what it’s made for.
L'Authentic (Match / Vapor at Nike, Authentic / Pro at Adidas, Authentic at Puma)
Ultra-fitted cut, designed for elite athletes who need the fabric to stay close to the body during exertion. If you wear a M T-shirt, you'll probably need a L or even a XL in Authentic for a comfortable fit. The rule of thumb: always size up from your usual size for an Authentic jersey you plan to wear.
To learn all about the difference between Authentic and Replica jerseys, their composition, and how to tell them apart from fakes, see our guide on how to tell if a football jersey is genuine.
How to take your measurements: quick method and conversion chart
Two measurements are all you need to confidently choose your size.
- Chest: this is the main measurement. Place the tape measure around the fullest part of your chest, under your armpits, without pulling it tight. Note the measurement in centimeters.
- Waist: useful for fitted Authentic cuts. Measure at navel level.
| Size | Chest (cm) | Waist (cm) | Replica | Authentic (size up by 1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | 86 to 91 cm | 71 to 76 cm | S | XS (if available) |
| M | 91 to 97 cm | 76 to 81 cm | M | S |
| L | 97 to 104 cm | 81 to 87 cm | L | M |
| XL | 104 to 111 cm | 87 to 94 cm | XL | L |
| XXL | 111 to 119 cm | 94 to 102 cm | XXL | XL |
General guidelines. Always check the specific size guide for each jersey on its product page: at Elite Fanstore, every jersey has its own size guide.
Differences by brand
A Nike M isn't an Adidas M. These differences are real and documented. Here's what you need to know about the most widely represented brands.
Kappa,
New Balance,
Le Coq Sportif
Special cases: children, vintage jerseys, and gifts
Children's jerseys
Children's sizes are listed by age or height in centimeters, depending on the brand. LAge alone isn't reliable: a 10-year-old might wear a 128 cm or 152 cm jersey depending on their build. Always measure the child's height in centimeters and compare it with the size chart on the product page. If the child is between sizes, choose the larger size: children grow, jerseys don't.
Vintage and retro jerseys
Jerseys from the 80s and 90s almost always have a looser and longer fit than today's standards. That's the loose fit of the era. If you want a modern, fitted look, go down one or even two sizes. If you want the authentic look of the era, with the fabric falling over your hips, choose your usual size.
Buying a gift
This is the riskiest situation. Without the recipient's exact measurements, follow three rules: always choose the larger size rather than the smaller one (an oversized jersey can still be worn, but a too-tight one stays in the closet), choose the Replica version, which has a looser fit, and check the site's exchange policy before ordering. On Elite Fanstore, the exchange terms are listed on every product page.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing your usual size in an Authentic without accounting for the ultra-slim fit. This is the number one mistake.
- Assuming that an M in Nike = an M in Adidas = an M in Puma. That's not the case. Each brand has its own standards.
- Relying on age for a children's jersey without measuring height in centimeters.
- Ordering without checking the size guide on the product page. This guide is the most accurate reference for that particular jersey.
- Removing the tags as soon as it arrives before trying on the jersey.
- Ordering without checking the site's return policy, especially when buying a gift.
Frequently asked questions about soccer jersey sizing
How do I choose the right soccer jersey size?
First, identify the intended use and the jersey version (Replica or Authentic). For a Replica, choose your usual T-shirt size. For an Authentic, go one size up. Measure your chest at its widest point and compare it with the size chart on the product page. On Elite Fanstore, every jersey has its own size guide: it's the most reliable reference before placing your order.
What size should I choose between M and L for a soccer jersey?
It depends on the version and the brand. For a standard Replica, if your chest measurement is between 91 and 97 cm, size M is right for you. For an Authentic or a Nike version that runs small, choose size L even with these measurements. If you’re between sizes, always choose the larger size for everyday comfort. The size guide on each product page at Elite Fanstore will give you the exact recommendation for the shirt you’re looking at.
How do I know what size football shirt to buy?
Measure your chest at its widest point with a tape measure, then check whether the shirt is a Replica version (standard fit, choose your usual size) or Authentic (slim fit, go one size up). Then check the size guide for that specific shirt on the product page: sizing does vary between brands, and a generic chart isn’t enough. At Elite Fanstore, a size guide is available for every shirt.
What size shirt should I get if I’m 1m80 tall?
Size depends not only on height but also on body shape (chest measurement, build). For someone who is 1m80 tall with an average build (chest measurement between 97 and 104 cm), an L in Replica will generally fit well. For an Authentic, go for an XL. For someone who is 1m80 tall with a broader build (chest measurement over 104 cm), choose an XL in Replica and an XXL in Authentic. Always check the size guide on the product page to confirm.
In summary
Choosing a football shirt size involves two steps: first, consider how you’ll use it and which version you want (Replica for comfort, Authentic for performance), then check the measurements for that brand. For a Replica, your usual size will work. For an Authentic, always go one size up. And for every shirt, the size guide on the product page is your best reference.
Discover our selection of 2026 World Cup shirts, Brazil shirts and much more at Elite Fanstore, each with its own size guide.