How to choose the size of a tracksuit
Short answer: A tracksuit needs room over the shoulders and hips, but should not be so big that it hangs. Choose by your measurements rather than insisting that the top and bottoms share the same letter.
Top and bottoms do not have to match
Many people need one size in the top and another in the trousers. That is completely normal, because upper body and hips rarely follow the same chart. The set still looks coordinated when colour and fabric match. Choose each piece by the measurement that fits that piece.
The top
Chest width decides the size, and the shoulder seam decides whether the top looks right. The seam should sit on the shoulder or just below it, not far down the arm. The sleeves may be slightly long, since the cuff gathers them at the wrist. See bamboo sweatshirt for men.
The trousers
Waist width matters most, followed by inside leg length. An elastic waistband with a drawstring gives some leeway, but the trousers should stay up without sliding down. The legs can end just above the shoe. See bamboo sweatpants for men and bamboo sweatpants for women.
Hips and seat
Many trousers fit at the waist but feel tight over the hips and seat. Check the hip width in the chart too, especially if you have wide hips or strong thighs. The fabric should move with you when you sit, without pulling at the seams. Otherwise the trousers wear faster there.
For days at home or in town
If the set will be worn outside, a closer fit looks neater and more put together. If it is only for home, you can go up a size for extra comfort on the sofa. Think about where you will wear it most. See complete sets in bamboo tracksuit for women.
Between two sizes
Choose the larger one if the set should be loose, and the smaller one if it will be worn under a jacket. A top that is too big bunches at the waist under a jacket, while one that is too small pulls across the shoulders. More advice in between two sizes.
The length of the top
The top should reach just above the hip bone or slightly longer. If it is too short, it rides up when you reach or sit down. If it is too long, it gathers over the waistband of the trousers. Measure a top you already like and compare it with the chart.
Material and fit
Bamboo viscose is soft, drapes well and has a slight stretch. A bamboo set therefore often feels less stiff than cotton in the same size. That lets you choose the closer fit without giving up comfort. The fabric shapes itself to the body as you wear it.
After washing
Bamboo viscose keeps its size at 40 degrees. It is the tumble dryer that pulls at the fabric and can make the set shrink. Turn the pieces inside out and let them air dry on a hanger or rack. More washing advice is in the washing guide.
When the set fits right
A tracksuit that fits can be worn for hours without you thinking about it. It does not pull when you sit, and it does not hang when you walk. Check your measurements again when you buy something new, so you get it right every time.
Frequently asked questions
Should the top and bottoms be the same size?
No. Many people take one size in the top and another in the trousers. Choose each piece by its own measurement, and the whole set will fit well and still look coordinated.
Should I go up a size for wearing at home?
You can if you prefer a loose fit on the sofa. If the set will also be worn outside, the size that matches your measurements usually looks neatest.
Does a bamboo tracksuit shrink?
Not at 40 degrees. The tumble dryer can make the fabric contract, so let the set air dry after washing and it will keep its size.
