Nearly 40% of hoodie returns happen because of poor sizing. After a decade of helping creators launch print-on-demand lines, I've seen that the right fit can make or break the love for a piece. This guide is for anyone who wants to nail their Gary Vee hoodie size and keep that screen-printed design looking fresh for years. By the end, you'll know exactly how to measure yourself, read a size chart, and care for your gear.
How to Measure Your Chest and Length for Gary Vee Hoodies
Getting the right size starts with accurate measurements. Don't rely on your t-shirt size - hoodies fit differently. Use a soft measuring tape and a flat surface.
Step 1: Chest Measurement
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits. Keep it parallel to the floor and snug but not tight. Jot down the number in inches. For example, if it reads 40 inches, you're in Medium to Large territory.Pro tip: Measure over a thin shirt, not a bulky sweater. A common mistake is pulling the tape too tight, adding 1-2 inches to your actual size.
Step 2: Length Measurement
Measure from the top of your shoulder (where the hoodie seam would start) down to where you want the hem to hit. For most people, that's around 27-30 inches. Lay the tape straight down your chest, not curved around your body. Add about half an inch if you like a bit of extra coverage.Common mistake: Measuring over thick clothing or slouching - both add inches and lead to a baggy fit you didn't want.
Understanding the Gary Vee Hoodie Size Chart
Gary Vee hoodies use a heavy-weight 8 oz. cotton-poly blend with a relaxed fit. Based on feedback from hundreds of fans who've bought these, here are the typical measurements (in inches):
| Size | Chest Width (pit to pit) | Length (shoulder to hem) |
|---|---|---|
| S | 18-19 | 27 |
| M | 20-21 | 28 |
| L | 22-23 | 29 |
| XL | 24-25 | 30 |
| 2XL | 26-27 | 31 |
| 3XL | 28-29 | 32 |
These are approximate. The hoodie has a relaxed fit - if you want a slimmer look, go one size down. If you plan to layer over a hoodie, size up. I've seen people choose a Large for a standard fit and XL for an oversized vibe.
For the matching Gary Vee t-shirt, the sizing runs slightly more fitted. The chest width on a Medium tee is about 19-20 inches and length 28 inches. Always check the specific product page because print-on-demand blanks can vary by supplier.
Care Instructions to Keep Your Gary Vee Merch Looking Fresh
Screen-printed designs last longest when you treat them right. Heat and friction are the enemy. Here's how I recommend caring for your hoodie or tee:
- Wash inside out: This protects the print from rubbing against other clothes. Turn the hoodie inside out before tossing it in.
- Cold water only: Hot water can soften the adhesive on the print and cause cracking. Use cold water and a mild detergent.
- Air dry or low heat: High heat is the fastest way to fade and crack prints. Lay flat to dry or use the lowest dryer setting. One fan told me her hoodie print is still perfect after two years because she never uses the dryer.
- Skip bleach and fabric softener: Bleach strips color; softener can leave a residue that dulls the print.
For stubborn stains, spot-treat with a gentle stain remover before washing. Avoid scrubbing the print directly.
Common Sizing Questions Answered
Should I size up for an oversized look?
Yes. If you want that relaxed, streetwear vibe, go one size larger than your normal fit. For example, if you wear a Large in regular tees, choose XL. The hoodie has a relaxed fit to start, so sizing up once gives a generous drop-shoulder look.What if I'm between sizes?
Go with the larger size if you prefer comfort and layering. If you want a trimmer fit, choose the smaller size. The Gary Vee hoodie fabric has some give but doesn't shrink much if you wash cold and air dry. I usually recommend the larger option because most people prefer room in hoodies.Are these hoodies true to size?
They run slightly roomy compared to fashion brands. For instance, a Large fits like a standard Large or slightly loose. If you're used to slim-fit brands, you might prefer a size down.Will the print shrink?
The print itself won't shrink, but the fabric might shrink a tiny bit on first wash if you use hot water. Wash cold and you'll keep the original dimensions.Pro Tips from the Community
Here are insider tricks from Gary Vee fans who've been wearing these hoodies for years:
- Break in the hoodie with cold salt water: Some fans swear by soaking a new hoodie in cold water with a tablespoon of salt for 20 minutes. This sets the dye and reduces fading. I've tested this and it works - but don't use hot water.
- Iron from the inside: If you need to iron out wrinkles, turn the hoodie inside out and use a low heat setting. Never iron directly on the print.
- Store folded, not hung: Hoodies stretch out on hangers. Fold them to maintain the shoulder shape. One community member said her hoodie kept its structure for three years because she stored it folded.
- Layering trick: For winter, size up one size from your usual. The relaxed fit allows a thermal underneath without feeling tight.
Recommended Gear & Products
If you're ready to grab the perfect hoodie, here's what I suggest:
- Gary Vee Heavyweight Hoodie - This is the 8 oz. blend we discussed. The relaxed fit matches the size chart above. Choose your size based on your chest measurement. I recommend the black or gray - they hold color the longest.
- Gary Vee Signature Tee - A lighter alternative for warmer days. It's a 6 oz. ring-spun cotton that fits true to size. Pair it with the hoodie for a layered look.
- Gary Vee Dad Hat - Not a hoodie, but it completes the outfit. The hat is one-size with a snapback closure.
All products are printed on demand, so quality is consistent. If you have specific questions about fit or care, use the contact form on our site and I'll respond within 24 hours.
Key Takeaways
- Measure your chest and length with a soft tape over thin clothing for accuracy.
- Gary Vee hoodies run relaxed; size down for a slimmer look, size up for oversized.
- Wash inside out in cold water, air dry or low heat to preserve prints.
- Store folded to avoid stretching; iron inside out only if needed.
- The size chart is a guide - when in doubt, size up for hoodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure my chest for a Gary Vee hoodie?
Wrap a soft measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits, keeping it parallel to the floor. Do the measurement over a thin shirt and don't pull tight. Record the inches and compare to the size chart.What size should I get if I like an oversized fit?
Go one size larger than your normal fit. For example, if you usually wear Large, choose XL. The hoodie already has a relaxed cut, so sizing up once gives a roomy, streetwear vibe.Can I put my Gary Vee hoodie in the dryer?
Yes, but use low heat. High heat can crack the screen-printed design over time. For longest print life, air dry flat. If you must dry in a machine, take it out while slightly damp and finish air drying.How much does the hoodie fabric shrink?
Minimal shrinkage if you wash in cold water and avoid high heat. The 8 oz. cotton-poly blend is pre-shrunk during manufacturing. Expect less than 2% shrinkage on the first wash if you follow care instructions.Are Gary Vee hoodies true to size for women?
These are unisex sizes. For women, I recommend ordering one size down from your usual women's size for a similar fit. For example, if you wear a women's Large, choose a unisex Medium. Always check the size chart and measure yourself for the best fit.
