Our vintage football shirt size guide helps you compare pit-to-pit, chest and length measurements across different eras to find the closest fit.

Every shirt in The Soccer Archive is unique - especially vintage. Manufacturers change fits across eras, and age/wear can shift measurements. The best reference is always the exact measurements listed on the product page.

Use this guide for context, then compare to a shirt you already own.

How to measure
  • Pit-to-pit: lay the shirt flat and measure seam-to-seam under the arms (double it for chest).
  • Chest: measure around the fullest part of your chest, under the arms.
  • Length: from the top of the shoulder to the hem.


If you’re between sizes, we usually recommend matching the measurements of your favourite shirt at home.

Vintage & player-issue notes

Vintage variance: 80s/90s shirts can run roomier, while many 00s+ cuts become more standard. Tags aren’t always reliable - measurements are.

Kappa ‘Gara/Kombat’ post-2000: this was a tight-fitting range. If you would like to achieve a ‘standard fit’ we recommend that you order at least one size above your usual size.

Player-issue / performance cuts: often fit tighter through the chest and arms. If you want a classic replica feel, consider sizing up 1-2 sizes from your usual size.

Or, message us with your preferred sizes and we’ll point you to the closest match.

Disclaimer
Sizing is a guide only. Small variations can occur due to manufacturer tolerances, age, shrinkage and wear. For the most accurate fit, use the product page measurements (or contact us and we’ll be happy to help).

 

Find my closest size


Tip: measure a shirt you love, laid flat. We’ll match the closest size for the selected era.

Size Chest Pit-to-pit (approx) Length (typical)

Best practice: match pit-to-pit + length against a shirt you already own, then use our product page measurements to confirm.

Manufacturer Fit Notes

Useful context for vintage shirts. Always refer to the measurements listed on each product page for the most accurate fit.

adidas
Many 1990s adidas shirts have a slightly boxier cut than modern replicas. Early 2000s adidas shirts tend to sit closer to contemporary sizing.
Nike
Late 1990s and early 2000s Nike shirts generally follow modern sizing more closely, though some player-issue versions can feel slimmer.
Umbro
Umbro shirts from the 1990s often have a relaxed fit through the body, especially classic international and club kits from that era.
Kappa
Many Kappa shirts - particularly Kombat and Gara models - are designed with a very slim athletic fit. Sizing up is often recommended.
Puma
Some older Puma shirts can run slightly shorter in length, particularly early-2000s designs.
Lotto
Vintage Lotto shirts from the 1990s and early 2000s often have a wider chest cut with a classic relaxed silhouette.
Diadora
Late-90s and early-2000s Diadora shirts tend to fit true to size with a traditional relaxed profile.
Reebok
Many Reebok shirts from the late 90s and 2000s have a roomier fit, particularly through the chest.