Football Jersey Size Guide: How to choose the right size?

A football jersey that's too tight and restricts movement, or one that's too big and hangs off your shoulders: it's one of the most common disappointments when receiving an online order. However, with a few simple benchmarks, it's easy to avoid this mistake. This football jersey size guide explains how to take your measurements, read a size chart, and choose the fit that suits your body type, whether it's for you or a child.

At 100% Algérien, our jerseys in the colors of Algeria are available from S to XXL, and some models up to XXXL. Here is how to be sure you are ordering the right size on your first try.

Why choosing the right football jersey size is important

A football jersey is not just a simple t-shirt. Its cut, often form-fitting, is designed for ease of movement during physical exertion. A poorly chosen size can:

• Limit the range of motion for your arms and shoulders during play
• Cause the jersey to ride up during movement
• Look unflattering if the jersey is too baggy
• Complicate customization (name, number) if the size needs to change after ordering

Taking two minutes to check your measurements before purchasing avoids these inconveniences, especially for customizable jerseys with name and number, which generally cannot be exchanged once personalized.

Football jersey size chart (S to XXL/XXXL)

Here is a standard reference table based on the sizes usually used for adult football jerseys. It provides a good general indication, but we advise you to always check the measurement chart displayed on each product page, as some models have a slightly different cut.

Size	Chest measurement (cm)	Reference
S	86 - 91 cm	Size S / Teen-slim adult
M	92 - 97 cm	Size M / Standard build
L	98 - 103 cm	Size L / Medium to large build
XL	104 - 109 cm	Size XL / Large frame
XXL	110 - 115 cm	Size XXL / Very large frame
XXXL	116 - 121 cm	Size XXXL (available on select models)

For children, sizes are expressed in age ranges (2-3 years, 3-4 years, 4-5 years, 6-7 years, 8-9 years, 10-11 years, 12-13 years), as on our Algeria kids jersey + shorts set. These ranges remain indicative: it is better to rely on the child's actual size and build rather than their age alone.

How to measure your chest (and take your measurements correctly)

Before choosing a size, take two minutes to measure your chest. It is the most reliable measurement for a football jersey.

Steps to measure your chest

1. Use a flexible measuring tape (tailor's tape).
2. Place the tape horizontally around your chest at the widest point (under the armpits, above the pectorals).
3. Keep the tape flat, neither too tight nor too loose.
4. Breathe normally and note the measurement in centimeters.
5. Compare the result to the size chart above.

For a child, follow the same procedure, adding the back length measurement (from the nape of the neck to the waist) if possible to refine the choice, especially if the child is tall for their age.

Which size to choose according to your body type

Chest measurement provides a reliable base, but your general body type helps refine the final choice.

Slim or athletic build

If you have a slim or muscular frame without excess volume, choose the size that corresponds exactly to your measured chest size. A jersey that is too large will have an unflattering baggy effect.

Large or broad build

If your chest measurement falls between two sizes, or if you have a broad frame across the shoulders, choose the size up to ensure comfort around the armholes.

Larger waistline

Chest measurement does not always reflect waist measurement. If your waist is significantly larger than your chest, choose the size that corresponds to the larger of the two measurements to stay comfortable.

Men's and kids' football jersey sizing: differences

Men's football jersey

Adult jerseys follow the S to XXL grid, sometimes XXXL as with the White & Green Algeria Jersey. Our supporter models, such as the Blue Algeria Football Jersey or the 2026 Algeria Jersey, follow this same size grid.

Kids' football jersey

For children, we use age ranges rather than S/M/L. Find the entire selection in our Kids' Algeria Jerseys collection, featuring complete jersey + shorts sets designed for young supporters.

Practical tip: If in doubt between two age ranges, measure the child's height and compare it to a piece of sportswear that already fits them well, rather than relying solely on their actual age.

Fitted or loose fit: what to choose?

Depending on the intended use, the ideal cut is not the same:

• Fitted cut (exact size): ideal for playing football, it reduces friction and provides a sporty look close to the jersey worn by professional players.
• Loose fit (one size up): more comfortable for lifestyle use, everyday wear, or watching a match, offering more freedom of movement and a casual style.

Our White & Green Algeria Jersey – Football Lifestyle is particularly well-suited for casual wear, whereas a more technical model will be better suited for athletic activity.

What if you are between two sizes?

This is a very common situation. Here is how to decide:

• For sports use (matches, training): choose the smaller size for a more fitted cut and better support.
• For lifestyle use or if you plan to wear a layer underneath (t-shirt, technical undershirt): choose the size up.
• If your measurement is exactly at the limit between two sizes indicated on the product page, the larger size remains the safer choice, as a slightly large jersey is more comfortable than one that is too small.

Mistakes to avoid when choosing your size

• Relying solely on your usual size in regular street clothes: sports size grids are not always identical to those of standard ready-to-wear clothing.
• Ignoring the product page's measurement chart: each model may have slight variations in the cut.
• Choosing a child's size based solely on their age: two children of the same age can have very different body types.
• Ordering a personalized jersey without being sure of the size: personalized items (name/number printing) are generally not accepted for returns or exchanges, except in case of error or manufacturing defect. So, double-check your measurements before confirming the customization.
• Not taking into account the intended use: a jersey for playing and a jersey for lifestyle use don't necessarily require the same fit.

FAQ: frequently asked questions about football jersey sizes

What football jersey size should I take if I have a 100 cm chest?

With a 100 cm chest, size L is generally the most suitable. If you prefer a looser fit, you can opt for an XL.

How to choose a football jersey size for a child?

Measure the child's chest and compare it to the age range indicated on the product page, keeping in mind that body type takes precedence over actual age.

Do football jerseys generally run small or large?

Football jerseys often have a fitted cut, close to the body, designed for sports. If you are used to wearing loose clothing, it may be useful to go one size up.

Can you exchange a personalized jersey if the size does not fit?

Items customized with name/number printing are generally not accepted for return or exchange, except in case of error or defect. It is therefore essential to verify your size before ordering customization.

Is there a one-size-fits-all for all body types?

No, every body type is different. The most reliable method remains measuring your chest and comparing it to the size chart of the chosen product.

Conclusion: find the perfect size for your football jersey

Choosing the right football jersey size relies on three simple reflexes: measure your chest, compare with the product's size chart, and adapt your choice according to the intended use (sport or lifestyle) and your body type. If in doubt between two sizes, the larger size is often the safest choice.

You now have all the keys to order with confidence. Discover our Algeria jersey collection, our kids' selection, or our solidarity jerseys from the Algeria x Palestine collection, and find the jersey in your size to proudly wear the colors 🇩🇿.