Joybuy Insights

Buy men’s clothing online: how to choose jackets, T-shirts and polo shirts without making a costly mistake

Ordering men’s clothing online is convenient, but an attractive product photo tells you little about fit, material and practical use. Men’s jackets and T-shirts are particularly prone to the same purchasing mistakes: a jacket turns out smaller than expected, a fabric feels different from its description or a supposedly waterproof men’s jacket is only suitable for light rain.

This buying guide helps you compare objective product specifications and choose more confidently from branded men’s clothing, men’s sportswear and casual men’s clothing.

Three common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Looking only at the letter size

A size M is not the same across every brand. Regular fit, athletic fit and oversized styles can differ considerably in shoulder width, chest measurement and garment length. Always check the size guide for the specific product. Jackets also need enough room for a jumper or fleece.

2. Confusing marketing terms with technical protection

Words such as “weatherproof”, “all-weather” and “water-repellent” do not automatically mean the same thing. Look at the specific information:

  • Is the outer fabric fitted with a membrane?
  • Are the seams taped or sealed?
  • Does the jacket have an adjustable hood and cuffs?
  • What care instructions apply to the water-repellent finish?

According to The North Face’s product description, the NF0A8DY2 model features seam-sealed DryVent fabric and a Non-PFC DWR finish. This is verifiable product information; the actual level of protection also depends on use, wear and maintenance.

3. Ignoring the material and care instructions

A cotton T-shirt can feel comfortable, but shrinkage and colour retention depend on the washing programme. Polyester is often practical for men’s sportswear, while polyamide is used in jackets to create a durable outer layer. However, the fabric composition alone does not determine whether a garment is right for your needs.

Important specifications to compare

Fit and measurements

Don’t just compare S, M, L or XXL. Where available, compare:

  • Chest measurement: important for freedom of movement and layering.
  • Sleeve length: particularly relevant for men’s outdoor jackets.
  • Back or garment length: determines how much protection a jacket provides.
  • Fit: regular, classic, athletic or oversized.

For men’s plus sizes, comprehensive size guides are particularly important. For example, the Calvin Klein CK Essential T-shirt is available in XXXL and has a regular fit according to the product information. The Urban Classics Heavy Oversized Tee goes up to 4XL according to the stated size chart, but an oversized cut does not automatically mean you should choose the same size as you would in a regular fit.

Material and when to wear it

Choose the material based on the situation:

  • 100% cotton: suitable for everyday wear and casual outfits, such as the adidas Trefoil Essentials Tee and the Levi’s polo shirt.
  • Cotton-polyester blend: can be a practical choice for a lightweight T-shirt that you wash frequently, such as the Reebok Crew Neck Tee with 60% cotton and 40% polyester.
  • Polyester: widely used in sportswear and outdoor jackets; always check the exact finish and lining.
  • Polyamide with polyester filling: relevant for men’s winter jackets, such as the Urban Classics Basic Puffer Jacket.

Weather protection and care

With a waterproof men’s jacket, you need to look beyond the word “waterproof”. Also check the zips, hood, cuffs and seams. A jacket with adjustable features can adapt better to different weather conditions, but this does not guarantee complete protection in every situation.

Care is part of choosing the product. Some jackets must not be tumble-dried or need to be ironed at a low temperature. With a DWR finish, incorrect washing can affect its water-repellent properties. Always follow the care label, even if the online product description gives more generous instructions.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Urban Classics Basic Puffer Jacket with Hood Winter Jackets/Coats Black XXL

Urban Classics Basic Puffer Jacket with Hood Winter Jackets/Coats Black XXL

Why it suits this profile: A practical winter jacket for everyday commuting and city wear, with a hood and a simple black look.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies the chest and waist range, so you don’t have to choose XXL based on the letter size alone.

Key benefit & advantages

100% polyamide outer layer, polyester filling and lining, plus machine washing according to the product description.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
The North Face Men Jackets NF0A84FC Estate Blue TNF Black M

The North Face Men Jackets NF0A84FC Estate Blue/TNF Black M

Why it suits this profile: For anyone looking for one jacket that can be adapted to changeable weather during walks, trips and everyday outdoor activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 3-in-1 design makes it clear which layers you can wear separately or together; however, check that the size leaves enough room for layering.

Key benefit & advantages

GORE-TEX outer material according to the product description, 550 fill power down and an adjustable hood, hem and cuffs.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
PELLIOT Fleece-lined Splicing colour jacket for Men Black Green XL

PELLIOT Fleece-lined Splicing Colour Jacket XL

Why it suits this profile: Designed for camping, travel and outdoor activities where a flexible jacket system can be useful.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description outlines three ways to wear it: as an outer layer, inner layer or combined. Check the size guide if you wear additional layers.

Key benefit & advantages

3-in-1 construction, stated waterproof membrane and sizes up to XXXL according to the product information.

Suitable for: Everyday essentials
Adidas Trefoil Essentials Tee JI8545 Black S

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Tee JI8545 Black S

Why it suits this profile: A simple T-shirt for casual combinations, sporty outfits or as a base layer under a jacket.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify a regular fit, crew neck, EU size 46 and a chest width of 48 cm.

Key benefit & advantages

100% cotton jersey, black colour and machine washing according to the supplied care information.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about men’s clothing online

How do I determine my clothing size when ordering online?

Measure your chest, waist and, if necessary, sleeve length with a flexible tape measure. Compare these measurements with the product’s size guide rather than relying only on the brand’s general size chart. When choosing a jacket, allow room for a jumper or fleece.

Which jacket is suitable for changeable Dutch weather?

For everyday use, a jacket with a hood, secure pockets and adjustable cuffs can be practical. For walking or cycling, also check the seams, membrane, ventilation and care instructions. A men’s winter jacket is primarily designed for insulation, while a men’s outdoor jacket may place greater emphasis on wind and rain protection.

Is branded men’s clothing always more expensive online?

Not necessarily. The price depends on the material, construction, brand and temporary offers. So compare the product specifications, and when browsing men’s clothing in the sale, don’t focus only on the discount percentage. A lower price is only worthwhile when the size, fit, material and intended use all work together.