How to Measure for a Hockey Jersey: Step by Step Chest and Length Guide

To measure for a hockey jersey, wear your base layer and pads, measure chest, body length and sleeve length, then compare with the garment size chart.

Accurate measurements prevent mis-sized jerseys. Measuring takes about five minutes, but doing it over the equipment you actually wear makes the difference. This step-by-step guide shows how to take each measurement, what to record and how to apply the results to adult, youth and goalie sizing.

What you need

A soft tape measure, your base layer, and your pads. Ask someone to help for accuracy.

Step 1: Chest

Wrap the tape around the fullest part of the chest and over the shoulder pads. Keep it level and snug but not tight.

Step 2: Body length

Measure from the base of the neck at the shoulder down to the desired hem, typically the beltline.

Step 3: Sleeve length

Measure from the shoulder seam to the wrist with the elbow slightly bent.

Step 4: Compare with the chart

Match your numbers with the supplier’s garment chart (see our size guide). If between sizes, choose by the tightest area. See how to choose your hockey jersey size.

Goalies and youth

Goalies should measure over chest and arm protectors and consider a goalie cut. Youth should allow only a small growth margin. See goalie jerseys.

Common measuring mistakes

• Measuring over a thick winter jacket instead of pads and base layer.
• Pulling the tape too tight.
• Measuring the shoulder instead of the chest.
• Using a stretchy tape that has worn out.
• Not recording the measurements.

Measuring a team quickly

For a team, run a short measuring session before practice. Set up two stations, one for measuring and one for recording. Use the free roster CSV to record chest, length, sleeve and cut for every player. Share the results with your supplier along with your quote request.

Next steps after measuring

Once you have your measurements, compare with the chart and decide between sizes. For larger orders request a sample in two sizes. See should you size up a hockey jersey for advice on in-between sizes.

Quick reference table in words

• Chest: around fullest part, over pads and base layer.
• Length: neck-base to hem, typically beltline.
• Sleeve: shoulder seam to wrist, elbow slightly bent.
• Goalies: measure over chest and arm protector and request a goalie cut.

Why measuring beats guessing

A letter size means different things to different suppliers. Measurements remove the guesswork because garment charts list the actual chest, length and sleeve of each size. For team orders, this approach reduces size exchanges and reprints. See our size guide for charts.

Special cases: tall, broad and growing players

Tall players may need extra body length, and broad-shouldered players may need more chest and sleeve room than their letter size suggests. Some suppliers offer tall cuts. If your player is growing quickly, measure again every few months and order the new size before the season starts rather than mid-season. For a team order, include a note on any player with unusual proportions so the supplier can advise on pattern choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I measure for a hockey jersey?

Measure chest, length and sleeve over your pads and compare with the garment chart.

Should I measure over pads?

Yes.

Do I need help to measure?

It helps for accuracy.

What if I am between sizes?

Choose by the tightest area.

Get a Factory Quote for Your Team or Brand

Athlein Sports manufactures custom hockey jerseys, goalie cuts, socks and team bags in Sialkot, Pakistan, with a 20-piece starting minimum and free digital mockups. Explore custom ice hockey uniforms, browse custom ice hockey bags, or request an itemised quote. You can also email info@athleinsports.com or message us on WhatsApp.