Sleeve length and leg length when you are a tall man
Short answer: Look for tall sized models rather than sizing up. Check sleeve length and body length in the size chart before ordering, since those two numbers say far more about fit than the size label alone ever will.
The problem with sizing up
An extra size usually adds a couple of centimeters in length and a lot more in width. If you're tall and slim, you end up with a piece that's plenty roomy across the chest and still too short in the sleeve. It's the most common mistake.
The two measurements you need to know
Body length measured from the neck down, and sleeve length measured from the shoulder seam, are the two numbers that matter most. Measure a piece that fits you well, and use those numbers as your reference rather than relying on the size label alone.
Bamboo clothing for men in tall sizes
See bamboo clothing for men for models where tall sizing is its own category rather than just a bigger number. Here both body length and sleeve length are adjusted together, instead of only width growing along with the size.
Where it gets critical
Long sleeved t-shirts, undershirts, and sweatshirts turn too short first of all pieces, and they ride up whenever you raise your arms during the day. For undershirts, body length matters more than width. See bamboo undershirt for men for a cut with extra length.
Long sleeve t-shirts need the same care
See bamboo long sleeve t-shirt for men and measure the sleeve from shoulder seam to cuff before ordering. Even a few centimeters of difference stands out clearly the moment you raise your arms overhead or reach forward during ordinary daily use.
How to keep the length lasting
Wash at thirty degrees and skip hot tumble drying, since a piece that's only just long enough gets short fast after two or three hot dryer cycles. See bamboo t-shirts for men for qualities that hold their shape better at low temperatures.
Does it differ between brands
Yes, and often by a lot. Some brands cut longer in the body than others at exactly the same size. Save the measurements from the brand that fits you, and use them as a reference whenever you consider a new brand or a new model.
Slim or regular for tall and slim
If you're tall and slim, slim fit often gives better length proportions than regular a size up, since the width doesn't grow more than it needs to. Regular in a bigger size rarely fixes the sleeve, it just adds fabric where you already have enough.
Pant length follows the same rule
Like with tops, an extra pants size rarely adds enough leg length. Look for tall models rather than a wider waist, and measure a pant leg you know, from crotch to hem, to find the right length without compromising on the waist fit.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a t-shirt be?
It should cover the belt line by a couple of centimeters when you raise your arms. If it's shorter, your stomach shows during ordinary everyday movement.
Does it differ between brands?
Yes, a lot. Some brands cut longer in the body than others at the same size, so always measure before ordering a new brand for the first time.
Should I choose slim or regular?
If you're tall and slim, slim fit often gives better length proportions than regular a size up, since the width doesn't end up unnecessarily large for your build.
