CYC standard measurements for men: sizes and ease for knitting
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Consult the standard body measurements for men according to the Craft Yarn Council (CYC) and learn how to apply ease to adjust knitted or crocheted sweaters, cardigans, and jackets. Below you’ll find the complete charts in centimeters for sizes S–XL and 2X–5X, along with practical tips and frequently asked questions.
Table of contents
How to use these charts
The CYC charts list body measurements, not finished garment measurements. To calculate the pattern’s final circumference, you must add ease, which varies according to the style (fitted, regular, oversized). Take your measurements with the tape measure without pulling it tight and compare them with the chart to choose a size.
CYC Measurement Chart – Men (S–XL)
| Size | Bust (cm) | Center back neck-to-wrist (cm) | Back waist length (cm) | Back shoulder-to-shoulder width (cm) | Arm length to armhole (cm) | Upper arm circumference (cm) | Armhole depth (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hip (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | 86–91.5 | 81–82.5 | 58.5–61 | 39.5–40.5 | 45.5 | 30.5 | 21.5–23 | 71–76 | 89–94 |
| M | 96.5–101.5 | 83.5–85 | 63.5–66 | 42–43 | 47 | 33 | 23–24 | 81.5–86.5 | 99–104 |
| L | 106.5–111.5 | 86.5–87.5 | 66–68.5 | 44.5–45.5 | 49.5 | 38 | 24–25.5 | 91.5–96.5 | 109–114 |
| XL | 116.5–122 | 89–90 | 71 | 45.5–47 | 50.5 | 39.5 | 25.5–26 | 106.5–112 | 119–124.5 |
These are body measurements; add ease according to the pattern’s style.
CYC Measurement Chart – Men (2X–5X)
| Size | Bust (cm) | Center back neck-to-wrist (cm) | Back waist length (cm) | Back shoulder-to-shoulder width (cm) | Arm length to armhole (cm) | Upper arm circumference (cm) | Armhole depth (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hip (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2X | 127–132 | 91.5–92.5 | 73.5 | 48–51 | 52 | 42 | 28 | 117–122 | 129–134 |
| 3X | 137–142 | 94–95 | 76 | 48–51 | 52 | 44.5 | 29 | 127–132 | 137–142 |
| 4X | 147.5–152 | 96.5–97.5 | 76 | 51–54.5 | 49.5 | 47 | 30.5 | 137–142 | 142–147.5 |
| 5X | 157.5–162.5 | 99–100.5 | 79 | 56–57 | 53.5–54.5 | 48 | 32 | 147.5–152.5 | 147.5–152.5 |
Source: Craft Yarn Council (CYC) — Man Size Chart. These are body measurements.
Recommended ease for men
Choose the ease considering the garment’s style and thickness:
| Garment type | Bust ease (cm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fitted | 0–4 | For stretchy yarns or a fitted design. |
| Classic/regular | 4–10 | Everyday comfort and good mobility. |
| Oversized/relaxed | 10–20+ | Check body and sleeve lengths. |
| Knitted jacket/coat | 8–18 | Depending on inner layers and fabric thickness. |
Ease is added to your body measurements. Always check the gauge.
Fitting and grading tips
- Between sizes: choose based on your target ease. If in doubt, prioritize the bust and adjust lengths.
- Sleeves and back: adapt the back waist length and the center back neck to wrist measurement to your height.
- Upper arm: if your “upper arm” exceeds the table, increase the sleeve width and redistribute decreases.
- Fibers: wool that blocks with drape may gain ease; cotton yields less and holds its shape.
Frequently asked questions
Are these finished garment measurements?
No. They are body measurements. You should add ease according to the pattern or your preference.
Can I use these tables for crochet and knitting?
Yes. They are body measurements; construction (crochet/knitting) and stitch gauge will determine the final ease.
Why does the “center back neck to wrist” measurement vary between sizes?
The CYC assumes variations in height and wingspan as size increases. Adjust lengths if your proportions differ.
Related articles
- Complete guide: Standard measurements by size (CYC): women, men, children, and babies
- CYC standard measurements for women
- CYC standard measurements for children
- CYC standard measurements for babies
- How much yarn do I need for my size?
- View all yarn balls at Idealium →
Main source: Craft Yarn Council (CYC) — Standard Body Measurements.
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