Getting the right size for your Planet Money merch means the difference between a garment you reach for constantly and one that sits in the drawer. Whether you're grabbing a t-shirt from the latest episode drop or a hoodie for your next economics deep dive, this guide walks you through measuring yourself, decoding Planet Money's size charts, and understanding the differences between unisex and premium fits so you order with confidence.
Measuring Yourself: Key Dimensions for Apparel
Before you consult any size chart, take your own measurements. You need a soft measuring tape and a flat surface. Wear a lightweight shirt or no shirt for accuracy.
- Chest/Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape horizontal and snug but not tight. Let your arms rest at your sides.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline (above your belly button). For tops, this helps gauge where the garment will sit.
- Hips: For longer cuts or women's sizes, measure at the widest part of your hips.
- Length: From the top of your shoulder (at the collar seam) down to where you want the hem to fall. Standard t-shirts are about 28 inches for a medium.
- Sleeve length: From the center back of your neck, across your shoulder, down to your wrist bone. This is best done with help.
Write down your measurements in inches and centimeters. Compare them directly to the size charts below. Most Planet Money apparel uses unisex sizing, but the premium line runs slightly different.
Planet Money T-Shirt Fit and Size Chart
Planet Money's standard t-shirts use a classic unisex cut - straight through the body with a relaxed fit. They are typically made from 100% combed ring-spun cotton or a cotton-polyester blend for durability. Here’s the size chart based on the most common blanks used (e.g., Bella Canvas 3001 or similar):
| Size | Chest (inches) | Length (inches) | Sleeve Length (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 31-33 | 26.5 | 15.5 |
| S | 34-36 | 28 | 16 |
| M | 38-40 | 29 | 17 |
| L | 42-44 | 30 | 18 |
| XL | 46-48 | 31 | 19 |
| 2XL | 50-52 | 32 | 20 |
| 3XL | 54-56 | 33 | 21 |
Note: If you are between sizes, consider what fit you prefer. For a more relaxed look, size up. For a trim fit, go down. Planet Money shirts tend to shrink slightly in the first wash (about 1-2% in length); washing in cold water and air drying minimizes this.
Planet Money Hoodie Size Chart and Care Tips
Planet Money hoodies typically use a heavyweight 8 oz fleece or a midweight 50/50 cotton-poly blend. They are unisex and have a classic full-zip or pullover style with a drawstring hood. Sizing is consistent with the t-shirt chart but with added room for layering. Here’s the hoodie size chart:
| Size | Chest (inches) | Length (inches) | Sleeve Length (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 34-36 | 27 | 33 |
| S | 38-40 | 28 | 34 |
| M | 42-44 | 29 | 35 |
| L | 46-48 | 30 | 36 |
| XL | 50-52 | 31 | 37 |
| 2XL | 54-56 | 32 | 38 |
| 3XL | 58-60 | 33 | 39 |
Care tips: To keep your Planet Money hoodie looking fresh, turn it inside out before washing. Use cold water and a gentle cycle. Avoid bleach. Tumble dry low or hang dry to prevent shrinkage. The drawstring ends should be tied in a knot before washing to prevent them from pulling out.
Unisex vs. Premium Fits: What’s the Difference?
Planet Money occasionally releases limited-edition runs in a “premium” fit. This is a slimmer, more tailored cut - often with shorter sleeves and a narrower body. Premium blanks (like Bella Canvas 3001CVC or Next Level 6210) are tri-blends (cotton, polyester, rayon) that offer a softer hand and a modern silhouette.
- Unisex fit: Straight through the hip, generous armholes, a classic shoulder seam. Ideal for all body types and for layering over other shirts.
- Premium fit: Slightly tapered body, lower armhole, a trimmer appearance closer to a modern crew neck. These run about one size smaller than the unisex equivalent. If you usually wear a medium in unisex, try a large in premium.
Check the product page carefully: if it says “Premium Fit” or “Slim Fit,” use the premium size chart if provided. If no additional chart is given, assume the standard unisex fit.
International Shoppers: Converting Sizes Correctly
Planet Money ships to many countries, but sizes are listed in US inches. Here’s how to convert to common international systems:
| US Size | UK (chest inches) | EU (chest cm) | Japan (chest cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 34 | 86 | 86 |
| S | 36 | 91 | 91 |
| M | 40 | 102 | 96 |
| L | 44 | 112 | 104 |
| XL | 48 | 122 | 112 |
| 2XL | 52 | 132 | 120 |
| 3XL | 56 | 142 | 128 |
Note: EU and Japanese sizes often run smaller than US. If you are between sizes, order one size up. Also check your region's return policy - Planet Money offers exchanges for wrong sizes within 30 days. For more help, use the contact form on the store.
Whether you’re repping Planet Money at a conference or on your couch, the right fit makes all the difference. Measure, compare, and wear your NPR pride comfortably.
