How to Measure Yourself for a Shearling Vest: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Measure Yourself for a Shearling Vest the Right Way

Getting the fit just right starts with getting a good measurement and trust us, it's worth taking your time over because shearling vests are a whole different story when it comes to size compared to regular leather. Make a mistake here and you could end up with a vest that chafes or restricts your movements.

But don't worry, we're here to walk you through the whole process step by step, so you can guarantee your shearling vest fits perfectly from the very first wear.

What You'll Need Before Taking Your Measurements

Before we get started, just a couple of things to check off your list first:

  • A measuring tape that's not too rigid and won't rip your skin
  • A mirror or a willing helper to get those tricky bits just right
  • A nice fitted shirt or a lightweight sweater to work with

Don't even think about trying to measure over big, thick clothes though that's just a recipe for disaster.

Step 1: Get Your Chest Measurement

Chest size is the one that really matters when it comes to a shearling vest

How to get the right measurement:

  • Wrap the tape around the fullest bit of your chest, where it's widest
  • Keep that tape level and not too tight, but snug enough so it doesn't slip down and don't hold your breath while you're doing it!

This measurement is key to making sure you've got enough room to breathe and you're not going to feel like you're suffocating in all that lovely shearling.

Step 2: Get a Measure on Those Shoulders

Clunky shoulder fit can totally mess with your balance and mobility so getting it right is pretty important.

So, how do you measure?

  • Grab a measuring tape and run it straight across the back from one shoulder edge to the other. Don't worry too much about it being perfect, just get as close as you can.
  • Try to keep your arms relaxed while you're measuring you don't want that to affect the fit.

Getting your shoulder measurement right is actually really important it stops you from straining and puts your weight evenly in check.

Step 3: Work out How Long You Want That Vest to Be

Length has a pretty big impact on how warm and how you feel about your vest overall.

To measure the length:

  • Start with the tape at the base of your neck
  • Then run it straight down to where you want the vest to sit on you be that at the waist, the upper hip, or somewhere in between.
  • Most shearling vests are cut to fall about at the waist or upper hip, but you do you, right?

When you're choosing a length, think about style and how much warmth you're after.

Step 4: Don't Forget About Arm Space

While your size chart might not actually call it out, the space at the armholes can make or break the comfort of your vest.

So, double check that:

  • The armholes give you enough room to move about
  • The vest doesn't chafe or pinch when you layer it up

The really great shearling vests strike a perfect balance between keeping you warm and letting you move around easily.

Step 5: How to Get the Fit Right - Layering Considerations

Think about how you're actually going to wear this vest of yours.

  • Over a shirt, and you'll want to go by your true chest measurements
  • Over a sweater or hoodie, and give yourself a bit of extra room so it doesn't feel too tight
  • Wearing it under a jacket, and go for a closer fit

Shearling should be warm, not all bulked up and awkward.

Making Sense of Measurements with a Size Chart

After you've taken your measurements, you'll want to compare them to the brand's size chart to see where you land. If you're right in between sizes, it's usually safer to go up a size trust us on that. At GYMANZA USA, we design our size charts with the way people actually wear things in mind.

Common Measuring Mistakes to Watch Out For

Don't make the following rookie mistakes:

  • Measuring yourself way too tightly this is never going to end well
  • Measuring over a thick sweater or something get a more accurate number
  • Failing to take your shoulder width into account
  • Just winging it and guessing your size take the 5 minutes and measure yourself

The more accurate your measurements, the less hassle you'll have with returns.

How GYMANZA USA Keeps Fit Right

We don't just take folk's word for how our vests fit we actually put people in them and have them move around. We want to make sure they're comfortable and feel good from the get go.

Before You Order: Double Check These Measurements

Before you press that order button, just confirm these numbers are all good:

  • Your chest measurement
  • Your shoulder width
  • The length of vest you're after
  • How you plan on wearing it over / under other clothes

Do this and your shearling vest should be snuggly and looking great from day one.