What mistakes people make with the tape measure
Short answer: The typical mistakes are pulling the tape too tight, measuring in the wrong place, and measuring over clothes. All three give a number you cannot use, and they are easy to avoid once you know them.
A tape that is too tight
The tape should lie against the body without pressing. If you pull it tight, the measurement comes out too small and the garment too snug when you order by the number. A tape that leaves a mark on the skin is too tight. Read the number while it rests calmly.
The wrong place on the body
The waist is the narrowest point, not where the belt sits. Many people measure at belt height and get a number that is too large. Find the narrowest point of the torso, usually a little above the navel, and measure there. See offers for men once you have the right number.
Measuring over clothes
Even a thin sweater adds centimetres. Measure on bare skin or over thin underwear, so the number fits the body and not the clothes. See bamboo inner shorts and all bamboo socks for men once you have your true measurement.
A crooked tape
A tape that tilts or sags gives too large a number. The tape must lie level all the way round the body. Stand in front of a mirror and check that it is straight at the front and the back. Do not let it fold or twist.
Breathe out normally
Stand relaxed and breathe out normally, or the measurement comes out too small. If you pull in your stomach or hold your breath, you get a number that does not fit your body in daily life. Measure calmly and read the number after a normal breath out.
Help makes some measurements easier
Back and chest are easier to measure with help, because the tape must sit level where you cannot see. You can handle the rest yourself. Ask someone you trust to hold the tape, and read the number yourself. If nobody is around, a mirror helps.
Write the number down at once
Write the number down as soon as you have measured. If you just remember it, you may mix up centimetres and inches or forget a digit. Note what you measured and where on the body. Then you have something to compare with next time you face a size chart.
How often to measure again
Measure again when clothes start to fit differently from what you are used to. The body changes gradually, and an old number can be out of date without you noticing. You do not need to measure every month. A couple of times a year is enough.
How to use the numbers afterwards
Compare your numbers with the chart on the product page and choose the size where your measurement falls. If you fall between two sizes, think about whether you want the garment close or loose. Keep the numbers somewhere you can find them, so you do not measure again each time.
Frequently asked questions
Should I measure myself or get help
Back and chest are easier to measure with help. You can do the rest yourself. Have someone hold the tape level, and read the number yourself.
Should I breathe in
No. Stand relaxed and breathe out normally, or the measurement comes out too small. If you pull in your stomach, the number will not fit daily life.
How often should I measure again
When clothes start to fit differently from what you are used to. The body changes gradually, so an old number can be out of date without you noticing.
