The Gildan 18000 crewneck sweatshirt and the Gildan 18500 hoodie share one size chart. Chest width runs from 20 inches (50.8 cm) in size S to 34 inches (86.4 cm) in 5XL, and body length from 27 to 34 inches (68.6 to 86.4 cm), with 2 inches of width and 1 inch of length added per size. Both have a classic fit, so most people order their usual size and size up for a looser look. Every custom pet sweatshirt and custom pet hoodie we stitch is made on these two blanks.

What is the Gildan sweatshirt size chart?

The Gildan sweatshirt size chart lists three garment measurements for sizes S to 5XL, taken on the sweatshirt laid flat. The numbers below follow the Gildan size chart for the 18000 crewneck and the 18500 hoodie, in inches with centimeters in brackets.

SizeChest width, in (cm)Body length, in (cm)Sleeve from center back, in (cm)
S20 (50.8)27 (68.6)33.5 (85.1)
M22 (55.9)28 (71.1)34.5 (87.6)
L24 (61.0)29 (73.7)35.5 (90.2)
XL26 (66.0)30 (76.2)36.5 (92.7)
2XL28 (71.1)31 (78.7)37.5 (95.2)
3XL30 (76.2)32 (81.3)38.5 (97.8)
4XL32 (81.3)33 (83.8)39.5 (100.3)
5XL34 (86.4)34 (86.4)40.5 (102.9)

Chest width is measured straight across, armpit to armpit, so the full chest circumference of the garment is about twice the width: 40 inches (101.6 cm) for a size S and 48 inches (121.9 cm) for a size L.

Does the Gildan hoodie use the same size chart as the crewneck?

Yes. The Gildan 18500 hoodie uses the same chest width, body length and sleeve measurements as the 18000 crewneck in every size from S to 5XL. Both are made from the same 8 oz/yd² Heavy Blend fleece with a classic fit; the hoodie adds a double-lined hood with a color-matched drawcord and a front pouch pocket.

Gildan 18500 Heavy Blend hoodie size chart: chest width 20 to 32 inches and length 27 to 33 inches for sizes S to 4XL
Gildan 18500 hoodie: chest width and length for S to 4XL. 5XL is 34 inches wide and 34 inches long.

How do you measure a sweatshirt to find your size?

To measure a sweatshirt, lay one that fits you well flat on a table and take 3 measurements, then match them with the chart:

  1. Chest width: measure straight across the chest from armpit to armpit.
  2. Body length: measure from the highest point of the shoulder, next to the collar or hood seam, down to the bottom of the waistband.
  3. Sleeve: measure from the center back of the collar, over the shoulder and down the sleeve to the end of the cuff.

Pick the size whose chest width is closest to your sweatshirt. If you are between two sizes, choose the larger one; cotton-blend fleece can lose a little length in a hot dryer.

Should you size up in a Gildan sweatshirt?

Size up in a Gildan sweatshirt only if you want a looser or oversized look. The classic fit is cut for your usual size, as the fit guide below shows on a 5′5″ model who normally wears S: size S fits regular, M relaxed, L loose and XL oversized.

Gildan 18000 sweatshirt fit guide on a 5 foot 5 model who usually wears size S: S regular fit, M relaxed, L loose, XL oversized. Width in inches from 20 (S) to 34 (5XL), length 27 to 34, sleeve from the center back 33.5 to 40.5
How the sweatshirt fits: S regular, M relaxed, L loose, XL oversized, on a 5′5″ model who usually wears S.

What fabric are Gildan 18000 and 18500 sweatshirts made of?

Gildan 18000 and 18500 sweatshirts are made of 8 oz/yd² (about 271 g/m²) Heavy Blend fleece. Fiber content depends on the color, according to Gildan:

  • Solid colors, such as Black, Navy, Sand or Forest Green: 50% cotton and 50% polyester.
  • Heather colors, such as Dark Heather: 60% polyester and 40% cotton.

The cuffs and waistband are a 1×1 rib with spandex, and the body is seamless. To keep the fit after washing, follow our care guide for embroidered clothing: wash cold, inside out, and tumble dry low.

Can you exchange a sweatshirt for another size?

No. Every piece is made to order, so it isn’t eligible for a return or exchange because of a wrongly selected size (see our Refund Policy). Please check the chart before you order, and contact us if you are not sure which size to choose.