Most people size up because they think sweatpants should hang loose. That is a mistake. With the Matt and Tommy sweatpants, getting the right fit starts with understanding that these are cut for real movement, not baggy comfort at the expense of shape. This guide breaks down exactly how to match your measurements to our size chart, whether you want a relaxed or slim look.
Understanding the Matt and Tommy Sweatpants Size Chart
The Matt and Tommy sweatpants size chart follows standard letter sizes (S-3XL), but the numbers behind each size matter more than the letter. For waist, our sizes are based on actual body measurements not garment measurements. A size M, for example, fits a 32-34 inch waist, while L fits 36-38, and XL fits 40-42. Inseam is standardized at 30 inches for all sizes except XS (28 inches) and 2XL and 3XL (31 inches). This consistency means you only need to dial in waist and hip, not inseam.
Where most brands get tricky is the hip and thigh measurements. Our sweatpants have a gusseted crotch, so the hip measurement in the chart is the actual circumference of the hips at the widest point, not the waistband. For size L, the hip is 48-50 inches, which allows for a full range of motion without pulling. If you are between sizes, go by your hip measurement rather than waist. Waistbands have a drawcord and elastic, so a little extra room in the waist is adjustable, but tight hips will always feel restrictive.
Why the Size Chart Differs from Other Brands
Matt and Tommy sweatpants are cut with a higher rise than typical joggers. The front rise on a size M is 11.5 inches, compared to the industry standard of 10-10.5 inches. This means the waistband sits closer to your natural waist, not on your hips. If you are used to low-rise sweatpants, you may need to size down for the same feel. Check the rise measurement in the chart before ordering.
How to Measure Yourself for the Perfect Fit
You need three measurements: waist, hip, and inseam. Do not use your jeans size or guess. Use a soft measuring tape and follow these steps exactly.
Step 1: Measure Your Waist
Wrap the tape around your bare waist at the narrowest point, which is usually just above your belly button. Keep one finger between the tape and your skin for a comfortable fit. Write down the number in inches. Do not pull tight.Step 2: Measure Your Hips
Stand with feet together. Measure around the fullest part of your hips and butt, about 8 inches below your waist. The tape should be level all around. This number is critical for the thigh fit.Step 3: Measure Your Inseam
For inseam, measure from the crotch seam down the inside of your leg to the floor. If you want a stacked look at the ankle, add 1-2 inches. If you prefer a clean break, use exact measurement.Pro tip: Take measurements in the morning and evening. Bodies change up to an inch throughout the day. Use the larger measurement if you are between sizes.
Men's vs Women's Sweatpants: Key Differences
Matt and Tommy sweatpants are unisex, but the sizing differs slightly between the men's and women's size charts. The men's chart runs more generous in the hip and thigh, while the women's chart has a narrower hip and shorter rise. The women's size M has a 10-inch front rise and 46-inch hip, while the men's M has 11.5-inch rise and 48-inch hip.
If you are a woman ordering from the men's line, size down one size for a similar fit. For example, a woman who wears women's L should consider men's M. The women's line also includes a curvy cut with an extra 2 inches in the hip for sizes L and up. This cut is listed separately in the store.
What About Unisex Sizing?
The unisex option is essentially the men's cut with a different label. It works best for body types with a straighter hip line. If you have a significant waist-to-hip ratio, stick with the women's chart or size down in unisex.
Tips for Choosing Between a Relaxed and Slim Fit
Matt and Tommy sweatpants come in two fits: Relaxed and Slim. The relaxed fit adds 2 inches in the thigh and 1 inch in the hip compared to slim. The leg opening on relaxed is 8 inches, versus 6.5 inches on slim.
For athletic builds, slim fit can look clean if you have defined legs. But if you squat or cycle, the relaxed fit gives a better range of motion without pulling at the knee. The fabric is a 350 GSM cotton-poly blend, so it holds its shape. A slim fit that is too tight will not stretch out over time.
Common mistake: buying slim fit because you want a tapered look, then finding the waist gapes. The taper in slim fit comes from the knee down, not the waist. If you have a narrow waist relative to your thighs, order relaxed and take in the waist with the drawcord. The oversized look is intentional with relaxed, but you can still get a neat silhouette by rolling the cuff once.
How to Care for Your Sweatpants to Maintain Fit
The fit of your sweatpants changes with washing if you are not careful. The cotton-poly blend can shrink up to 3% in length and 2% in width in hot water. To preserve the size you ordered, wash in cold water on a gentle cycle and tumble dry on low heat. Remove while still slightly damp.
Never use bleach or fabric softener. Softener breaks down the elastic in the waistband and cuffs, causing them to stretch permanently. If you need to remove odors, add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. It neutralizes without damaging the fibers.
For the fleece lining, turn the pants inside out before washing. This prevents pilling and keeps the fleece soft. Air drying is ideal, but if you use a dryer, remove immediately to avoid wrinkles setting in.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which sweatpants size to get if I'm between sizes?
Go by the hip measurement rather than waist. The waist is adjustable with the drawcord, but the hip and thigh fit is fixed. If your hip falls between sizes, size up for comfort.Do Matt and Tommy sweatpants shrink?
Yes, about 2-3% in length and width if washed in hot water. To prevent shrinkage, wash cold and dry on low heat. If you want a slightly shorter inseam, intentional shrinkage is fine.Are the sweatpants true to size for women?
Women should check the women's size chart or size down one from their typical size in men's. The women's cut has a shorter rise and narrower hip. The unisex line is cut looser.What is the inseam length on the sweatpants?
Standard inseam is 30 inches for sizes S-2XL. XS is 28 inches, and 3XL is 31 inches. If you need a custom length, consider hemming.Can I machine wash my Matt and Tommy sweatpants?
Yes, machine wash cold on gentle cycle with like colors. Do not use bleach. Tumble dry low or air dry. Turn inside out to protect the fleece.
