Ordering clothes online always involves a bit of guesswork. Will it fit? Will it shrink? Will the print survive the washing machine? This martial arts T-shirt sizing guide answers those questions for our apparel range, from the heavyweight graphic tees to the hoodies. It’s based on the product details and the questions our students ask most often.
Understanding fit
Relaxed fit
Our heavyweight graphic tees, including the Celestial Dragon, Tiger & Crane and Biomechanical Blueprint designs, have a relaxed unisex fit. They’re cut with a little more room through the body and sleeves than a slim-fit tee. If you like a relaxed look, order your usual size. If you prefer a closer fit, you might consider going down a size, but check the size information on the product page first.
Classic and regular fit
Some items, such as the kids’ uniform tee and the zip hoodie, have a classic or regular fit: neither loose nor tight. Order your usual size.
Close fit
The performance base layer is designed to be close-fitting so it sits neatly under a T-shirt. Order your usual size for a snug, comfortable fit.
Items that run small
Two of our hoodies run small, and it’s worth knowing before you order:
- The Ink Wash Pagoda & Plum Blossom Hoodie: order one size up from your usual size.
- The Ladies Official Wing Chun Hoodie: order one size larger than usual.
If you like a roomy hoodie to wear over other layers, you might even go up two sizes. If in doubt, ask us.
How to measure
- Take a T-shirt or hoodie you already own that fits the way you like.
- Lay it flat.
- Measure straight across the chest from armpit to armpit.
- Measure the length from the highest point of the shoulder to the hem.
- Compare these measurements with the size information on the product page.
This is far more reliable than going by the size label on another brand, because sizes vary between manufacturers.
What fabric weight means
You’ll see words like “heavyweight” and “midweight” in our product descriptions. Fabric weight is usually measured in grams per square metre (g/m²). A higher number means a thicker, more substantial fabric.
- Heavyweight tees, such as our graphic tees and the Starter T-shirt, feel substantial, hold their shape well and drape nicely. They’re great for cooler weather and everyday wear.
- Midweight tees, such as the kids’ uniform tee, balance durability and breathability.
- Lighter tees, such as the Summer Training T-shirt and the ladies’ quarter-zip, are cooler for warm evenings and active training.
Garment-dyed cotton
Our graphic tees are made from garment-dyed cotton. That means the shirt is dyed after it’s been sewn, which gives a soft, broken-in feel from the first wear and a slightly vintage, washed look. Each shirt can vary very slightly in shade, which is part of its character.
Washing
- Turn it inside out. This protects prints and reduces fading.
- Follow the care label. Temperatures vary by garment.
- Wash with similar colours, especially for the first few washes.
- Use a gentle detergent and avoid bleach.
- Skip fabric softener on performance fabrics such as the base layer and quarter-zip.
Drying
- Line dry or dry flat where possible. It’s kinder to prints and helps garments keep their shape.
- Avoid tumble drying, especially on high heat, which can shrink cotton and crack prints.
- The beanie should be washed at 30 degrees and not tumble dried.
Ironing
If you need to iron, turn the garment inside out and use a low to medium setting. Never iron directly over a print.
Making your kit last
- Wash training clothes promptly after class rather than leaving them in a bag.
- Rotate between two shirts if you train often.
- Store hoodies folded rather than hung, to stop shoulders stretching.
- Deal with herbal massage liquid or other stains quickly, rinsing in cold water.
Made to order
Much of our clothing is made to order, with only a small amount of stock held. That can affect delivery or collection times, so allow a little extra time, particularly before gradings, events or holidays.
Still unsure?
If you have a question about sizing or care, ask us at the centre or get in touch on 07821 126 685. You can browse the full range in our online shop, including the Celestial Dragon Heavyweight Graphic Tee and the rest of our TrackAndTrainStudio designs, which you can also find in our TrackAndTrainStudio shop on Etsy.
Sifu Alan Bagley, Wing Chun Halesowen