How to Size a Football Jersey Over Shoulder Pads
To choose a tackle football jersey size, start with the chart for the exact jersey model and check the fit with the shoulder pads you plan to wear. Your everyday T-shirt size is only a starting reference. A jersey needs enough room for the pads and your normal arm movements, with a body length that works with your uniform.
Should you go up a size for shoulder pads?
There is no universal one-size-up rule. A tackle jersey and a flag football top can have different cuts even when both labels say Large. Pad shape, the jersey pattern and your preferred fit all affect the result. Ask for the selected model's measurement guide before choosing a size, and confirm whether its numbers describe the garment or the body.
Use a jersey that already fits over your pads
If you have a suitable tackle jersey, use it as a reference. Lay it flat without stretching it and record its size label, model if known, and the measurements requested by CHD. Include a photo showing where the tape begins and ends. Do not mix a flat chest width with a chest circumference: those are different measurements.
If you do not have a reference jersey, send CHD your measurements and pad model and ask which measurements are needed for the chosen jersey. A catalog drawing cannot establish your size.
| Check | What to record | What to resolve before ordering |
|---|---|---|
| Shoulders and upper chest | Pad model and how your reference jersey sits over it | Pulling, uneven seating or a cut that does not accommodate the pads |
| Arm openings | How the jersey feels when you reach forward and lift your arms | Binding or the jersey moving excessively with each reach |
| Body and hem | Reference garment length and intended tucked or untucked use | A hem that rides up or a length that does not work with your uniform |
| Size chart | Model, chart version, units and measurement method | A size selected from another model's chart |
Check the fit before approving the team roster
When a sample or existing jersey is available, try it with the intended pads and base layer. Check the front, back and side while standing, then repeat normal reaching movements. Record the selected size for each player individually. Players changing shoulder pads should check the combination again.
Do not assume that adding room everywhere solves a shoulder fit problem. Share the specific issue with CHD so the model and size can be reviewed together.
A CHD tackle jersey example
The T107 ZEPHYR listing describes four-way stretch knit, ventilation, double-layer shoulder construction and high armholes. These are model details to discuss during selection; they do not establish a size or guarantee a fit for every pad design. The catalog image below shows a black-and-red custom design. The order is for a jersey only, with pants and protective equipment separate.
What should your team send?
- The jersey model and intended use over shoulder pads.
- Each player’s selected size and the chart used.
- Reference measurements with clear units and tape placement.
- Any fit issue that needs review before approval.
Use the custom jersey quote checklist for artwork and delivery details. For the difference between garment types, read T103 tackle vs T607 flag football jerseys.
Explore this model
CHD T107 ZEPHYR Custom Football Jersey
Discuss the current model, measurement method and team design. Confirm sizes and production details before ordering. Jersey only.
Request a T107 quote →