I've spent years designing merch, and nothing frustrates me more than a hoodie that's just slightly off. Too tight in the shoulders, too loose in the waist, sleeves that end mid-forearm. But with the right measurements, you can nail your Lodge 49 hoodie sizing every time. Here's exactly how.
How to Measure Yourself for the Perfect Fit
Grab a soft measuring tape and a friend (or a mirror). Wear a thin t-shirt - bulky layers throw off numbers. Stand naturally with arms at your sides. Measure in inches, then compare to our size chart below.
Chest
Wrap the tape under your armpits, across the fullest part of your chest and shoulder blades. Keep it snug but not tight. That's your chest measurement. Most people overestimate here - take it twice.Sleeve Length
Start at the center back of your neck, just below the collar. Run the tape across your shoulder, down your arm to the wrist bone. Bend your elbow slightly - a bent arm sleeve is more accurate than a rigid one.Body Length
From the highest point of your shoulder (near the neck) straight down to where you want the hem to hit. For most hoodies, that's just below the waistband of your jeans. Add an inch if you like extra coverage.Pro tip from my design work: Standard Lodge 49 hoodies are cut for a relaxed fit. If you prefer a slimmer silhouette, subtract 2 inches from your chest measurement and match to the next size down.
Sizing Chart for Lodge 49 Hoodies in 2026
All our hoodies are unisex unless marked otherwise. Measurements are inches - if you're between sizes, size up for a looser look or down for a snugger fit.
| Size | Chest (in.) | Sleeve (in.) | Body Length (in.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 34-36 | 32-33 | 26-27 |
| M | 38-40 | 33-34 | 27-28 |
| L | 42-44 | 34-35 | 28-29 |
| XL | 46-48 | 35-36 | 29-30 |
| 2XL | 50-52 | 36-37 | 30-31 |
Key detail: Those chest ranges allow for ease - your actual chest measurement should fall inside the range. The garment chest is about 2 inches larger than your body measurement for comfort.
Comparing Unisex and Fitted Hoodie Options
Our standard Lodge 49 unisex hoodie uses a classic cut with roomy arms and a straight hem. It works for all body types and layers easily over a flannel. But we also offer a fitted hoodie (look for the "Fitted" tag on product pages).
Unisex Pros and Cons
- Roomy shoulders and chest
- Longer sleeve length suited for taller frames
- Relaxed drape that hides midsection
- Women with hips may find it boxy
Fitted Pros and Cons
- Tapered waist and shorter body length
- Snugger sleeves (consider sizing up if you have larger biceps)
- Better for layering under a jacket
- Not recommended for broad shoulders - try a unisex M first
My recommendation: For most buyers, the unisex version in your chest-matched size works great. If you're under 5'6" or want a more tailored look, try the fitted cut one size up from your usual.
Customer Tips for Choosing the Right Size
I've gathered hundreds of reviews and chatted with customers. Here's what they wish they knew before ordering.
- Shrinkage factor: Our preshrunk cotton-poly blend shrinks less than 2% after first wash. Still, I suggest washing cold and air drying to preserve fit. If you machine dry, expect minor shrinkage in length.
- Layering test: If you plan to wear a hoodie over a hoodie (yes, some fans do), size up one. Test with your thickest jacket on underneath.
- Gender differences: Many women wearing unisex report sizing down for a fitted look. Example: a woman who wears size M women's tops often chooses unisex S or even XS - but check chest measurement first.
- Athletic builds: Broad shoulders and slim waists? Size to your shoulders. The body may be looser, but you avoid restricted movement. A tailor can take in the sides for $15.
Care Instructions to Preserve Your Hoodie
Your Lodge 49 hoodie should last years with proper care. Here's the routine I recommend after designing and testing dozens of samples.
Wash
Turn inside out. Use cold water, gentle cycle. Hot water fades prints and shrinks fabric unevenly. Skip fabric softener - it breaks down the cotton-poly blend's softness and pills the surface.Dry
Tumble dry low or, better yet, hang dry. High heat damages the screen-printed design - I've seen prints crack after just five hot drying cycles. Hang on a line or lay flat on a towel.Stain Removal
Treat stains immediately with a dab of dish soap and cold water. Rub gently, never scrub. Bleach is a no-go - it'll discolor both fabric and print. For set-in stains, soak in cold water with oxygen-based cleaner for 30 minutes before washing.One more thing: Store folded, not hung. Hangers stretch out the neckband over time. Fold and stack with your other hoodies to maintain shape.
Key Takeaways
- Measure your chest, sleeve, and body length before ordering - don't guess based on your t-shirt size
- Unisex hoodies run roomy; fitted hoodies are tapered - use the chart to decide
- Expect minimal shrinkage with cold wash and low heat or air dry
- Size up if you want layers underneath; size down if you prefer a snug fit
- Follow the care guide to keep prints vibrant and fabric soft for years
