How to Measure Yourself for a Jacket: Leather Jacket Size Guide (XXS to 4XL)
To choose the right size, measure your chest, shoulders, sleeve length and waist, then compare those numbers with the size details on the product page. Do not rely on your usual S, M or L, because sizing varies between jackets and styles. This guide shows how to take each measurement and how to decide between two sizes.
The Short Answer
- Measure your chest, shoulders, sleeve length, waist and desired jacket length.
- Open the product page and compare your numbers with the size details.
- If you are between sizes, think about layering and the style of the jacket.
- If you are still unsure, email info@wearnock.com with your measurements.
What You Need
- A soft measuring tape.
- A thin top, such as a T-shirt.
- A helper, because measuring yourself accurately is hard.
How to Measure Each Point
Chest
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, under your armpits and across your shoulder blades. Keep it level and snug, not tight. Breathe normally.
Shoulders
Measure across your upper back from the edge of one shoulder bone to the other. This is the most important measurement because shoulders are the hardest part of a leather jacket to alter.
Sleeve Length
Measure from the edge of your shoulder to your wrist bone, with your arm slightly bent.
Waist
Measure around your natural waistline, which is usually just above your belly button. This matters most for slim and belted styles.
Jacket Length
Measure from the base of your neck to where you want the hem to sit. Biker and cafe racer styles usually end around the belt line, and bombers around the waistband.
Record Your Measurements
| Measurement | Your number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chest | Measure over a thin top | |
| Shoulders | Edge to edge across your back | |
| Sleeve | Shoulder edge to wrist bone | |
| Waist | Natural waistline | |
| Length | Neck base to hem point |
Men and Women Options, XXS to 4XL
Our jackets are generally offered in Men and Women options with sizes running from XXS to 4XL. Choose the option that matches the fit you want, then check the size details on the product page. Sizing can differ between styles, so use the product page as your reference rather than a general chart.
What to Do If You Are Between Sizes
- Plan to layer thicker knits: choose the larger size.
- Want a close, modern fit: choose the smaller size.
- Broad shoulders: size to your shoulders, not your waist.
- Slim style such as a cafe racer: leave a little room because there is less ease built in.
Quick Mirror Checks
- Reach forward. The back should feel slightly tight but not restricting.
- Cross your arms. The shoulders should not pinch.
- Sit down. The hem should not ride up uncomfortably.
For a full walkthrough of each fit point, see our leather jacket fit guide, and if you are shopping for a woman's cut, read our guide to choosing a women's leather jacket.
Common Mistakes
- Measuring over a thick sweater.
- Measuring too tight.
- Ignoring shoulder width.
- Choosing a size based on a different brand.
FAQs
Should I measure over clothes?
Measure over a thin top only. Thick layers will give you a larger number than you need.
Which measurement matters most?
Shoulder width, because it cannot be changed easily after the jacket is made.
Can I ask for help choosing a size?
Yes. Email info@wearnock.com with your chest, shoulder, sleeve and waist measurements and the jacket you are considering.
Once you have your numbers, browse the men's biker and moto jackets or women's biker and moto jackets and compare them with the size details on each product page.