Joybuy Insights

Buying menswear online: how to choose the right size, fabric and fit

Buying menswear online seems simple, but product photos don’t tell the whole story. A T-shirt can look fluid on screen yet feel tight in real life. A polo may appear smart, but a high percentage of synthetic fibres can make it feel different from what you expect. A low price also says little about the fit, fabric composition or care costs.

As Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I filter the key product information so you can compare marketing claims with verifiable specifications. This way you’ll find clothing for everyday wear, work, travel, leisure or sport without needless mistakes.

Three common pitfalls when buying menswear

1. Relying on the letter size alone

A size L isn’t equally generous across brands. A slim-fit shirt can come up narrower than a regular-fit T-shirt in the same size. Always check the chest, waist and sleeve measurements in centimetres. Some garments also list an international, European or British size. Those labels aren’t automatically one-to-one equivalents.

2. Assuming “cotton” always feels the same

Men’s cotton clothing can be a light jersey, a sturdy piqué or a twill weave. The construction and weight influence how a garment drapes and how quickly it dries. A T-shirt made from 100% cotton isn’t the same as a stretch polo with 96% cotton and 4% elastane.

Watch out for contradictory or incomplete information. For the Nike Dri-FIT Park 20-shirt, the product information mentions both 100% polyester and a composition of 57% cotton and 43% polyester. So check the sewn-in label when it arrives.

3. Reading functional claims without context

Terms like “breathable”, “quick-drying” or “odour-resistant” don’t always describe the conditions under which a product performs. According to PELLIOT’s product description, the piqué weave is designed to wick moisture and dry quickly. That’s information from the brand or seller, not a guarantee of the same experience for every user.

For men’s sportswear it’s also important to look at the fit. A compression short is meant to fit tight according to the product description. If you prefer more freedom of movement, consider going up a size.

Key specifications to check before you buy

Material and fabric construction

Look beyond the brand name. Check:

  • Composition: for example, 100% cotton, polyester or a cotton–elastane blend.
  • Weave or knit: jersey often feels supple; piqué has a more structured polo look; twill is generally sturdier.
  • Stretch: elastane can provide extra freedom of movement, but it also changes the fit.
  • Weight: a 160 gsm shirt, like several The North Face models in this selection, is a more concrete indicator than just “light” or “soft”.

For everyday wear, men’s cotton T-shirts are easy to pair with jeans, chinos or men’s shorts. For intensive activity, polyester may move moisture faster according to the brand’s product description, but always check the exact composition.

Fit and measurements

Note the difference between:

  • Slim fit: sits closer to the body.
  • Regular fit: usually offers a straighter, more versatile cut.
  • Relaxed fit: roomier and good if you prefer more space.
  • Compression fit: deliberately very close-fitting, as with the Under Armour HeatGear short.

Measure a garment that already fits you well and compare it with the size chart. For the Tommy Hilfiger Core Tommy Logo Tee, XS corresponds to a chest measurement of 88–92 cm according to the stated table. By contrast, the Calvin Klein Essential Slim Tee is only specified as XXL in the supplied product information; check carefully whether that size matches your body measurements.

Care and longevity

The right wash routine helps retain shape, colour and print for longer. Before washing, check:

  1. The maximum temperature on the label.
  2. Whether the garment can go in the tumble dryer.
  3. Whether bleach or fabric softener is discouraged.
  4. Whether a print should be washed inside out.
  5. Whether dark colours should be washed separately.

Many products in this selection recommend low temperatures, air drying or avoiding the tumble dryer. That can limit energy use and prevents extra heat stress on the fabric.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Tommy Hilfiger Core Tommy Logo Tee Men XS Sky Captain

Tommy Hilfiger Core Tommy Logo Tee Men XS Sky Captain

Why this fits the profile: A simple everyday T-shirt with a regular fit, crew neck and a stated composition of 100% cotton.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page lists the fit, neckline finish and fabric composition, so you don’t have to rely on photos alone.

Key benefit & highlights

100% cotton per the product specification; regular fit; ribbed crew neck.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
Calvin Klein Twill Easy Care Slim Shirt Night Sky Men 44

Calvin Klein Twill Easy Care Slim Shirt Night Sky Men 44

Why this fits the profile: The slim fit and dark Night Sky colour suit work, dinners and smart-casual combinations.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information explicitly mentions a twill blend, slim fit and care advice. Check the final composition on the label.

Key benefit & highlights

Twill fabric; slim fit; suitable for machine washing according to the product information.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Under Armour Men's Hg Armour Shorts Black Sportstyle Collection L

Under Armour Men's Hg Armour Shorts Black Sportstyle Collection L

Why this fits the profile: Built for training and active days thanks to the stated compression fit, mesh panels and pocket.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page clearly states that the shorts fit very tightly. If in doubt, choose a size up rather than blindly sticking to your usual size.

Key benefit & highlights

84% polyester and 16% elastane; strategic mesh panels; side pocket; stated waist 86–91 cm for size L.

Suitable for: Holidaymakers and swimmers
Mens Reebok Swimshort Yestin Collegiate Navy XL

Mens Reebok Swimshort Yestin Collegiate Navy XL

Why this fits the profile: Swim shorts for pool, beach and waterside activities, with an adjustable waistband.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fabric, lining and care instructions are listed. That lets you compare men’s swim shorts on practical features rather than colour alone.

Key benefit & highlights

100% polyester per the product information; elasticated waistband with drawcord; machine wash at 30 °C.

Looking for more options?

We’ve compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about men’s clothing online

How do I determine my size when buying men’s clothing online?

Measure your chest, waist and, if needed, sleeve length with a soft tape measure. Compare these values with the size chart for the specific product. Also look at the fit: slim fit, regular fit and relaxed fit produce different results even when the letter size is the same.

Which fabric is suitable for everyday wear?

For everyday wear, many shoppers choose cotton for its familiar feel and versatility. Polyester or a blend with elastane may, according to the product specification, offer practical benefits for sport and movement. Always check the care label and the exact percentages.

How should I care for branded men’s clothing?

Follow the sewn-in label and don’t automatically deviate from the product page. Wash at the stated temperature, don’t use bleach when advised against, and air dry if the tumble dryer isn’t permitted. For prints, washing inside out is often a sensible precaution, as long as this matches the care advice.