Choosing the correct size for a child's apparel can be a frustrating guessing game, especially when ordering in bulk for a school, sports team, or family event. As of December 2025, the Gildan youth size chart remains a reliable standard in the apparel industry, but subtle differences between their product lines—like the Heavy Cotton™ T-shirt versus the Heavy Blend™ Hoodie—require a precise understanding of the measurements to ensure a perfect fit every time. This in-depth guide provides the definitive, up-to-date measurements and expert tips you need to confidently select the right size, eliminating the hassle of returns and unhappy customers or children.
The key to mastering Gildan's youth sizing isn't just knowing the S, M, L labels; it's understanding the specific body length and chest width measurements that define their unisex youth fit. This knowledge is essential because a "Youth Medium" in one brand can be vastly different from a Gildan Youth Medium (YM), which is generally designed to fit true to age, typically corresponding to ages 9–11. We will break down the charts for their most popular products, including the versatile Gildan Heavy Cotton Youth T-Shirt (5000B) and the warm Gildan Heavy Blend Youth Hoodie (18500B).
The Definitive 2025 Gildan Youth T-Shirt Size Chart (and How to Use It)
The most common item for custom printing is the T-shirt, and Gildan offers several popular youth styles, including the Heavy Cotton™ (5000B) and the DryBlend® 50/50 (8000B). While the fabric blend differs (100% cotton vs. 50/50 cotton/polyester), the core body measurements for their standard unisex youth fit remain consistent across these popular lines. These measurements are taken when the shirt is laid flat, which is the industry standard.
To use this chart effectively, you should measure a shirt that the child currently owns and fits well, laying it flat on a table. The "Body Length" is measured from the highest point of the shoulder (next to the neck) down to the bottom hem, and the "Chest Width" is measured across the chest, just below the armpit seam.
Gildan Unisex Youth T-Shirt Core Size Chart (Heavy Cotton & DryBlend)
| Size Code | Approx. Age Range | Chest Width (Laid Flat, in inches) | Body Length (in inches) | Approx. Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Youth Small (YS) | 6–8 | 16" | 20.5" – 22" | 38–58 lbs |
| Youth Medium (YM) | 10–12 | 17" – 18" | 22" – 22.5" | 58–86 lbs |
| Youth Large (YL) | 14–16 | 18" – 19" | 23.5" – 24" | 86–114 lbs |
| Youth X-Large (YXL) | 18 | 19" – 20" | 25" | 114+ lbs |
Note: Measurements can vary by up to +/- 1 inch due to manufacturing tolerances. Always prioritize chest width for the best fit.
The Gildan Youth Small (YS) is the starting point for standard youth sizing, typically fitting children who have grown out of the largest toddler sizes. The Youth X-Large (YXL) is often the bridge size before moving into Adult Small (AS) or Adult Extra Small (AXS) sizes.
Beyond the Tee: Sizing for Gildan Youth Hoodies and Sweatshirts
When selecting sizes for outerwear like the Gildan Heavy Blend™ Youth Hooded Sweatshirt (18500B) or the Gildan Heavy Blend™ Youth Crewneck Sweatshirt (18000B), you must account for layering. Hoodies and sweatshirts are generally cut slightly larger to allow for a t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt to be worn underneath comfortably.
The "Heavy Blend" line is a popular choice for its warmth and durability, often featuring a 50% cotton and 50% polyester blend. The measurements below reflect the cut of these heavier garments, which tend to have a slightly more generous fit compared to the lightweight T-shirts.
Gildan Heavy Blend Youth Hoodie Size Chart (Style 18500B)
| Size Code | Chest Width (Laid Flat, in inches) | Body Length (in inches) | Sleeve Length (from shoulder) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth X-Small (YXS) | 16" | 19.75" | — |
| Youth Small (YS) | 17" | 21.25" | — |
| Youth Medium (YM) | 18" | 22.5" | — |
| Youth Large (YL) | 19" | 24" | — |
Note: The YXS size is often available in hoodies and is a great option for younger children who need a heavier garment but are too small for the standard YS.
Age, Weight, and Fit: 5 Expert Tips to Guarantee the Perfect Gildan Youth Size
While the charts provide the hard numbers, the actual fit depends on the child's build, personal preference, and the fabric's properties. Use these five expert tips to finalize your sizing decision and avoid common mistakes.
1. Understand the "True to Age" Fit
Gildan's youth sizing is designed to be "true to age," meaning the size code often aligns with the typical age of the child. For instance, a Youth Medium (YM) is generally a safe bet for a child aged 10–12. However, children's growth spurts are unpredictable. Always use the age guide as a starting point, but confirm with the chest and length measurements for accuracy, especially for children on the taller or heavier side of the age range.
2. The Crucial Difference: Youth vs. Toddler Sizing
Do not confuse Gildan Youth Sizes (YS-YXL) with their Toddler Sizes (2T, 3T, 4T, 5/6T). Toddler shirts, often denoted by product codes like the Gildan Toddler Heavy Cotton T-Shirt (5100P), are cut much smaller and shorter, specifically for younger children. These shirts use a different, smaller pattern. If you are ordering for a 5-year-old, check the measurements carefully; they might fit a 5/6T better than a Youth Small (YS).
3. Account for Shrinkage (Especially with 100% Cotton)
The Gildan Heavy Cotton (5000B) is 100% cotton, which means it is susceptible to shrinkage, particularly if washed and dried on high heat. Shrinkage can be up to 5-7%. For a child who is right on the border between two sizes, or if you know the garments will be machine-dried, it is a wise strategy to size up to account for this inevitable shrinking. The DryBlend® (8000B), with its 50% polyester content, is a much safer option for minimal shrinkage.
4. Measure the Chest Width Accurately
The most important measurement for a comfortable fit is the chest width (or bust). A shirt that is too tight across the chest will be uncomfortable and restrict movement. When measuring your child, wrap a tape measure around the fullest part of their chest. Then, add 2–4 inches to that measurement for a comfortable, standard fit. If the child prefers a looser, more relaxed fit, add 4–6 inches.
5. Consider the Style and Fit Preference
Gildan's youth tees are generally a classic, boxy, unisex fit. If the child prefers a more tapered or athletic cut, you may need to adjust. For example, a child who likes a baggy or oversized look will be better served by sizing up. Conversely, if you are ordering a Gildan Girl's Youth T-Shirt (a less common style, but available), note that the cut is typically more fitted than the unisex version, requiring a potentially different size selection.
By relying on the precise measurements provided in the 2025 Gildan size charts and applying these five practical tips, you can move away from guesswork and guarantee a comfortable, well-fitting garment for every child, whether you are ordering a single item or a large batch for a youth event.
