How to Pick the Perfect Men’s Sportcoat: A Sizing Guide from ReadyGOLF
When it comes to style and comfort, few things matter more than fit—especially with a sportcoat or jacket. Whether you’re buying a smart sport coat to wear on and off the course or a blazer to step into the clubhouse or 19th hole with style, getting the right size makes all the difference.
This guide will help you choose the proper size for men’s sportcoats, including pieces from our ReadyGOLF Jacketmaster Collection, so you can feel confident when you click “Add to Cart.”
Why Getting the Fit Right Matters
A sportcoat is more than just a top layer. A properly fitted jacket:
- Moves with you—so your swing, walk to the cart, or 19th-hole hangout feels natural.
- Flatters your build—not too tight, not too baggy.
- Looks sharp—making you feel confident whether you’re teeing off or sitting down for drinks.
- Layers well—with a shirt or even a light sweater underneath.
A jacket that’s too large can look sloppy. Too small? You’ll feel restricted and uncomfortable. Getting the size right makes all the difference.
The Key Measurements You Need to Know
When you’re shopping for a sportcoat—or measuring yourself at home—focus on these core dimensions:
1. Chest Measurement (The Anchor Size)
This is the starting point for your jacket size.
- Use a soft measuring tape.
- Wrap it around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits, making sure the tape lies flat and level across your back.
- The number you get (for example, 40") is typically your sport coat size.
Chest size is much more accurate than just choosing S/M/L, and it gives you a better fit right from the start.
2. Over-Arm Measurement (For Bigger Builds or Layering)
This is helpful if you have a broader build or want room for heavier layers.
- With arms at your sides, wrap the tape around your chest's widest part.
- If the difference between your over-arm measurement and chest measurement is more than about 7", consider going up a jacket size for comfort.
3. Shoulder Fit (Point-to-Point)
Shoulders are one of the most important parts of sportcoat fit.
- Have someone measure across your upper back from one shoulder seam to the other (where the sleeve would meet the jacket).
- The shoulder seam should line up with your natural shoulder bone—not hanging past it and not pulling inside it.
If the shoulders are off, the jacket will never look quite right.
4. Jacket Length (Body Length)
- For most men under about 6', the bottom of the jacket should land around mid-crotch (halfway between your waist and fly).
- For taller men, a slightly longer jacket that hits just below the fly usually looks more balanced.
The goal is a clean, balanced silhouette—not too long, not too short.
5. Sleeve Length & Cuff Exposure
- With your arms relaxed at your sides, the jacket sleeve should end at the wrist bone.
- Ideally, you’ll see about 1/4" to 1/2" of your shirt cuff peeking out.
Right-length sleeves are a small detail that makes a big difference in how polished the jacket looks.
Fit Check: Signs Your Sportcoat Fits Properly
When you try on a sportcoat (or when your new Jacketmaster jacket arrives), run through this quick checklist:
- Shoulders: Seams sit right on top of your shoulders, with no drooping or puckering.
- Chest: You can button the jacket comfortably without pulling or gapping; you should still be able to slip a hand inside easily.
- Torso: The jacket follows your shape without looking boxy or skin-tight.
- Sleeves: End at the wrist bone with a bit of shirt cuff showing.
- Length: The jacket covers your seat and creates a balanced look from shoulders to hem.
- Mobility: You can reach forward, shake hands, and move naturally without feeling restricted.
If shoulders or chest feel very tight or very loose, you’re probably in the wrong size and should adjust up or down accordingly.
Choosing the Right Fit Style for Your Build
Not all bodies or sportcoats are the same. Here are some general guidelines to match fit with build:
- Classic/Regular Build: Choose your normal chest size in a regular length for a balanced, comfortable fit.
- Athletic / Broad Shoulders: If your overarm measurement is much larger than your chest size, consider going up a size or choosing a cut with a bit more room through the shoulders and chest.
- Tall & Lean: Look for “Long” sizes to keep the jacket from riding too high on your body.
- Slim/Modern Fit Fans: Choose your chest size, but expect a slightly more tapered shape through the waist and sleeves for a sharper, modern silhouette.
Why Proper Fit Matters for the ReadyGOLF Jacketmaster Collection
Sportcoats from the ReadyGOLF Jacketmaster Collection are designed for golfers who want style that plays on and off the course.
A well-fitting Jacketmaster sportcoat:
- Lets you move freely—walk, reach, and relax without feeling restricted.
- Maintains a clean, sharp look whether you’re at the tee, the bar, or a dinner out.
- Layers comfortably over polos or performance shirts without adding bulk.
When the fit is perfect, you receive all the style without any of the inconvenience.
Home Sizing Checklist
Before ordering your sportcoat online, grab:
- A soft measuring tape
- A fitted shirt (not a thick sweater)
- A mirror or a friend to help with back and shoulder measurements
- Something to jot your measurements down
Measure in this order:
- Chest
- Overarm
- Shoulders
- Sleeve length
- Jacket length
Then compare your numbers to the size chart on the product page to choose the best Jacketmaster size for you.
Quick Reference: Sizing Recap
- Start with your chest measurement—that’s your base jacket size.
- Please ensure the shoulders fit first, as this is the most challenging area to alter.
- Check jacket and sleeve length for a clean, balanced look.
- Between sizes? It’s usually safer to size up slightly and, if needed, tailor for a perfect finish.
With the right measurements and a little attention to detail, you’ll end up with a sportcoat that looks sharp, feels comfortable, and fits right into your ReadyGOLF lifestyle.
Ready to find your fit? Explore the ReadyGOLF Jacketmaster Collection and add a sport coat to your wardrobe that looks as stylish as your best round.