The Ultimate Gildan Size Chart & Fit Guide

Sizing seems simple at first. Then you order a batch of Gildan tees and notice that “Medium” is not always the same. Even pro printers and merch sellers run into this problem.

That’s why using the Gildan size chart is so important. It helps you compare fits across every product line, so you can order confidently and avoid costly mistakes. 

Each Gildan line has its own fit and feel. Softstyle, Heavy Cotton, DryBlend, and Ultra Cotton all use different fabrics and weights. Some shrink more than others after washing.

Gildan Size Chart

Below are the official Gildan size charts. Exact measurements may vary slightly by product, but these charts give a consistent baseline. 

Adult T-Shirt Size Chart

The majority of Gildan Adult T-shirt styles have a uniform sizing format throughout their lines. The measurements are in width x length (in inches).

Men's sizes run from small to 3Xl and occasionally larger. Women's sizes are identified as "L" (such as 6750L, 5000L, etc.) and generally measure 1 - 2 inches narrower and shorter than their corresponding Men's style.

This consistent sizing is one of the best qualities of Gildan. Mediums in any Gildan brand line will almost always be the same. This allows for easy reordering and mixing between different brands/lines because you know the mediums will be the same.

Also remember, while many Gildan shirts go through to 3XL, not all do. Some may only go through 4XL or 5XL. Always confirm your product number prior to placing a large order.

Gildan Youth and Toddler Size Chart

Gildan has a broad youth size range that covers all ages from toddlers to teens. The smallest sizes start at 2T and continue up through 3T, 4T and 5/6T for toddlers. It then goes into the regular youth sizes of extra small (YXS), small (YS), medium (YM), large (YL) and extra large (YXL).

Similar to adult sizes, the youth size Gildan brands have a uniformity among most products; a Youth Medium (YM) shirt in one Gildan will be the same YM in a different style. The only difference that may be obvious will be due to the fabric or its blend and not to size differences.

Youth increments of sizes are smaller than in the adult. On the average the increment is one or two inches larger in size for different youth sizes, so designed to correspond to the natural growth of child's sizes.

Keep in mind that not every style of Gildan is made in every size; especially in the toddler sizes, and you will find that there are the most selections in the standard youth sizes (YXS through YXL). 

Fit Tips for Kids’ and Toddler Gildan Shirts

• Youth sizes fit true to age. For example, a YM (10/12) suits most children ages 9–11.

• Toddler shirts use different codes (like 5100P) and fit smaller, with shorter sleeves and body length.

• Pre-shrunk fabric helps maintain size, but cotton shirts can still shrink slightly after the first wash.

• For school uniforms or team wear, choose a slightly larger size to allow for growth.

Gildan Polo and Fleece Size Chart

Gildan's polos and fleeces use the same size chart and all of Gildan's adult, lady, and youth styles are measured similarly (i.e., an L is equivalent to a XLX/LS/MED etc.)

They measure the same way as a T-shirt (width x length), but they are cut differently. The collar and shoulder area of polos is larger than those of T-shirts and the fleece is made of heavier fabric than T-shirts and often includes zippers or pockets.

Each size increases by 1-2 inches from one size to another. A medium in both polos and fleeces will likely be the same fit. All styles go to either 4 XL or 5 XL; however, this does not mean all colors are available at every size.

Gildan Activewear Size Chart

Gildan's activewear has different measurement sizes than the normal t-shirt. These activewear items are measured by body size for ease of movement and moisture wicking.

Measure  your chest, waist, and hips with a soft measuring tape or string. Then refer to the Gildan's size chart below to determine your activewear size.

The right fitting activewear allows you to stay cool while being able to move freely. It also helps keep you dry in wet conditions that can occur during physical activities.

Men's Activewear Tops Size Chart

Men's Activewear Bottoms Size Chart

Women's Activewear Tops Size Chart

Women's Activewear Pants Size Chart

How to Measure T-shirt size correctly?

Gildan’s size charts are based on flat garment measurements, not body dimensions. That means each measurement is taken with the shirt laid flat on a table and not wrapped around the body.

Here’s how to measure:

1. Lay a shirt flat. Use a style that already fits comfortably.

2. Measure the width. From armpit to armpit.

3. Measure the length. From the top of the shoulder (near the collar) straight to the hem.

4. Compare your numbers. Match them to Gildan’s chart to find your closest fit.

Example:
If your favorite shirt measures 20″ across the chest, that’s roughly a 40″ chest circumference. You’d likely wear a Gildan Medium.

DTF Transfers for Gildan Apparel

Knowing Gildan’s sizing guide will help you select the right blanks for printing. Check the size chart for the different styles, measure carefully and make sure the fit matches your design needs.

We specialize in producing high quality DTF transfers that apply cleanly to all fabrics, including Softstyle, Heavy Cotton and Ultra Cotton. Our transfers produce sharp, durable prints that will last wash after wash.

For consistent quality and professional printing on any Gildan product, turn to DTF Virginia!