Big & Tall Sizes Explained: XL vs 1X vs XLT and How to Measure

Quick Answer: What Big & Tall Sizes Mean

Big and tall sizes are built for bigger frames, not just scaled up from regular sizes. At George Richards Big & Tall, big sizes run from XL/1X to 8X, waists run from 34 to 66, and big-tall sizes (LT to 8XT) add body and sleeve length to the same roomy cut. If you measure your chest, waist, neck and inseam once, you can shop every category with confidence.

  • Big sizes: XL/1X, 2X, 3X up to 8X
  • Big-tall sizes: LT, XLT, 2XT up to 8XT
  • Waists: 34 to 66
  • Dress shirts: necks up to 22

Big & Tall Size Chart at a Glance

Size What it means Built for
XL / 1X The first big & tall size Men moving past regular-store XL who want more room through the chest and belly
2X to 4X Core big sizes Broader chests, fuller midsections and wider shoulders
5X to 8X Extended big sizes Men who rarely find their size anywhere else
LT, XLT Big-tall sizes A big & tall cut with added body and sleeve length
2XT to 8XT Big-tall sizes The room of a 2X to 8X plus extra length so shirts stay tucked and sleeves reach the wrist

Is a Big & Tall 2X the Same as XXL?

Not quite. A regular-store XXL is usually a standard pattern made a little bigger. A big & tall 2X is built on big & tall proportions, with room where bigger men need it: shoulders, chest, belly and seat. That is why many men who struggle in XXL find a 2X or 3X fits properly. Made better, not just bigger.

Big Sizes vs Big-Tall Sizes

Big sizes (1X to 8X) add width. Big-tall sizes (LT to 8XT) keep that width and add length to the body and sleeves. If shirts ride up when you reach, or sleeves stop short of your wrist, try the matching T size, for example 3XT instead of 3X.

How to Measure Yourself for Big & Tall Clothing

  • Chest: measure around the fullest part of your chest, under your arms, with the tape level.
  • Waist: measure where you wear your pants, not where a regular-size chart says your waist should be.
  • Neck: measure around the base of your neck and leave room for one finger.
  • Sleeve: from the centre back of your neck, over the shoulder, down to your wrist bone.
  • Inseam: from the crotch seam of a pair of pants that fits you well to the hem.

Compare your numbers with the George Richards size guide, or visit one of our 30+ stores across Canada and we will help you find your size.

Sizing Tips by Category

Category Size by Tip
Dress shirts Neck and sleeve Fit the neck first; a stretch dress shirt adds comfort through the chest
Jeans and pants Waist and inseam Flex or stretch waistbands help if you sit for long stretches
Tees, polos, hoodies Letter size (1X to 8X) Choose a T size if you want more length
Sport jackets Chest and length Jackets come in regular, tall and extra-tall lengths

FAQ

What does 1X mean in big and tall sizing?

1X is the first big & tall size, the step after a regular-store XL. At George Richards Big & Tall it is listed as XL/1X and is cut with more room through the chest, belly and shoulders.

What does XLT mean?

XLT is a big-tall size: an XL cut with extra body and sleeve length. Big-tall sizes run from LT up to 8XT.

What is the largest size George Richards Big & Tall carries?

Big sizes go up to 8X and waists go up to 66, depending on the style.

How do I know if I need a big and tall size?

If regular-store XL or XXL pulls across your chest, shoulders or belly, or your waist is above what regular stores carry, big & tall sizing will usually fit better.

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