When Bad Friends first launched merch, it was a handful of designs on standard Gildan tees. Now the collection spans hoodies, long sleeves, and fitted options - but the sizing can still trip you up. If you've ever ordered a shirt that felt like a tent or a hoodie that squeezed your shoulders, you know the struggle. This Bad Friends merch sizing guide covers everything you need to nail your fit on the first try.
| Product Pick | Best For | Key Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unisex Tee (Gildan 5000) | First-time buyers, classic fit | True to size, preshrunk cotton | $25 - $35 |
| Fitted Tee (Bella+Canvas 3001) | Slimmer silhouette, women | Runs small, size up | $30 - $40 |
| Pullover Hoodie (Gildan 18000) | Cozy layering | Roomier fit, size down for snug | $50 - $65 |
| Premium Hoodie (Independent) | High quality, soft feel | Lightweight, size up for oversized | $60 - $80 |
| Crewneck Sweatshirt (Gildan 18500) | Versatile midweight | True to size, minimal shrinkage | $45 - $55 |
Understanding Bad Friends Apparel Sizing Charts
Bad Friends merch uses standard blank brands, mostly Gildan and Bella+Canvas. The official sizing charts on each product page list chest width and body length in inches. For example, a unisex tee in size M measures 20" chest and 28" length. But charts can feel abstract - here's what they mean in real life.
Comparing Tee and Hoodie Charts
Tees (Gildan 5000) are consistent across designs. If you wear a Large in one, you'll wear a Large in another. Hoodies (Gildan 18000) have the same width but are about 2" shorter - so a Large hoodie fits like a Medium tee in length. Premium hoodies from Independent Trading Co. are slightly lighter fabric and run larger overall; consider sizing down if you want a trim fit.
How to Read the Measurements
Measure a shirt that fits you well. Lay it flat, measure chest from armpit to armpit, and length from shoulder to hem. Compare to the product chart. I always tell buyers: focus on chest measurement first. If it's within a half inch, the length will usually work. Especially with unisex cuts - they're designed for a range of body types.
Unisex vs. Fitted Sizing: Which Is Right for You
Most Bad Friends merch is unisex - a boxy, straight cut that works for everyone but can feel loose on narrower frames. The brand has started offering fitted options (Bella+Canvas 3001) that taper at the waist and have shorter sleeves. This is a game-changer if you prefer a sleeker look.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Unisex: Relaxed fit, longer body, roomy arms. Good for layering or if you like an oversized look. Size down for a closer fit.
- Fitted: Slim through chest and waist, shorter length. Runs about one size smaller than unisex. Most people need to size up unless they want it very snug.
I recommend fitted tees for women or men who prefer less fabric. Unisex is the safe bet if you're unsure - it's forgiving and matches the relaxed vibe of the podcast.
Should You Size Down or Up?
For unisex, I size down if I want it fitted - a Medium fits like a Women's Large. For hoodies, I stick with my regular unisex size for roomy layering. If you're between sizes, choose the smaller one for unisex tees; the fabric (usually 100% cotton) loosens slightly after washing and wear.
How Material Affects Fit and Shrinkage
Fabric composition directly impacts how a garment feels and changes over time. Standard Bad Friends tees are 100% preshrunk cotton - meaning they've already been through a shrink treatment. But "preshrunk" doesn't mean zero shrinkage. Expect about 2-3% in length after the first wash.
Cotton vs. Blends
- 100% cotton (Gildan 5000): Soft, breathable, moderate shrinkage. Becomes softer with each wash but loses some crispness.
- Tri-blends (Next Level 6210): Cotton, polyester, rayon. Very soft, lightweight, minimal shrinkage (1-2%). Drapes nicer but can cling.
- Polyester/cotton blends (hoodies): Less shrinkage, holds shape longer. The Gildan 18000 makes the fleece interior fluffy but less breathable.
Wash and Care Tips
To minimize shrinkage, wash in cold water and tumble dry low or air dry. High heat will shrink cotton tees more - up to 5% in length. I've seen customers complain their Large became a Medium after hot drying. Stick with cold wash and low heat, and your fit stays consistent.
Tips for Choosing the Right Size on Your First Order
Ordering online without trying on is risky. Here are strategies to get it right:
1. Measure a favorite shirt - not your body, but a shirt that fits how you like. Compare chest and length to the chart. 2. Read product descriptions - some designs note "relaxed fit" or "runs small." The item specifics often mention if the blank differs from standard. 3. Check community reviews - on the product page, sort by most recent. Look for comments about sizing from people with similar height/weight. 4. Consider your layering plan - if you'll wear the hoodie over a hoodie, size up. If it's just a tee, stick true. 5. Don't overthink it - unisex tees are built to be forgiving. Most returns (if any) are for fitted items.
One trick I use: order two sizes if you're torn, then return the one that doesn't fit. But check the store's policy first - most print-on-demand stores have limited size exchanges due to made-to-order production.
Customer Feedback on Sizing Accuracy
I've combed through hundreds of reviews and forum posts about Bad Friends merch sizing. The consensus: unisex tees run true to chart measurements. Most wearers say their regular size fits well, especially after a wash. Hoodies get mixed feedback - some find them slightly long, others say they're perfect. The premium hoodies (Independent brand) consistently get comments about being roomy; fans recommend sizing down.
Specific Examples from Fans
- "I'm 5'10", 175 lbs - ordered a Large tee, fits perfect after wash. Room for comfort but not baggy."
- "Women's Large, but I got the unisex Medium hoodie and it's my favorite - cozy without drowning me."
- "The fitted tee is tiny. I'm a Small in everything, needed a Medium in fitted."
Overall, if you stick with your usual size in unisex and size up one for fitted, you're safe. The brand quality is consistent, so trust the charts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm between sizes on the chart?
Go with the smaller size for unisex tees if you prefer a trim fit, or the larger size if you want room. For hoodies, choose the larger size to preserve layering space.Do the shirts shrink significantly?
Preshrunk cotton shrinks about 2-3% in length after the first cold wash and low heat dry. Hot water/high heat can increase shrinkage to 5%. Follow care instructions to stay true to size.Is there a difference in fit between tees and hoodies?
Yes - unisex hoodies have a slightly shorter body and wider shoulders compared to tees in the same size. If you want a hoodie to match your tee fit, consider sizing down in hoodies.Should I size up for an oversized look?
For unisex tees, size up one for a baggy look. For hoodies, stick with your regular size - they're already roomy. Going up two sizes may make sleeves too long.How does the unisex fit compare to women's sizing?
Unisex sizes are about two sizes larger than typical women's sizing. A women's Medium equals a unisex Small. For fitted tees, order your women's size directly.Key Takeaways
- Most Bad Friends merch uses Gildan or Bella+Canvas blanks with consistent sizing.
- Unisex tees run true to chart; fitted items run small - size up.
- Measure a trusted shirt and compare chest/length to the product chart.
- Wash in cold water and avoid high heat to prevent shrinkage.
- Community feedback confirms: stick with your regular unisex size unless you want a specific fit.
