What Size Shirt Should I Wear if I'm 5'10" in Ireland?

Buying the right size t-shirt in Ireland when you’re 5’10" isn’t as simple as just grabbing a ‘medium’ off the rack. If you’ve ever strolled into Arnotts in Dublin or checked out a Penneys in Cork, you’ve probably noticed that sizes can swing from one brand to the next—even though the tags all say ‘medium’ or ‘large’. It can leave anyone purling through the rails a bit confused.

Irish shirt sizing usually runs in UK standards, but don’t take that at face value. A medium Penneys tee fits way different from a medium Superdry picked up at Kildare Village. Even more confusing, some European and American labels are creeping in, especially in online Irish shops, so it helps to double-check the country’s sizing chart if you want to avoid that classic ‘bodybuilder in a baby tee’ look.

When you’re 5’10”, most Irish men find themselves between a medium and a large—unless you build muscle like a young Brian O’Driscoll or prefer your tees loose for a few extra pints at the pub. And don’t forget, local weather matters. On chilly Galway days, you’ll want a fit snug enough to layer under a jacket for the walk along the Salthill Prom, but loose enough for those rare proper summer afternoons in Phoenix Park.

• Irish Shirt Sizing: How It Actually Works
• Key Measurements if You're 5'10"
• Where You Shop Matters: City vs Regional Stores
• Trying On in Irish Fitting Rooms: What to Check
• Brands to Know: Popular Irish Shirt Brands and Sizing
• Smart Tips for Getting a Great Fit Every Time

Irish Shirt Sizing: How It Actually Works

When it comes to shirt size Ireland options, things get a bit muddled, especially if you’re used to US or European labels. In Ireland, most t-shirts sold on the high street go by UK sizing, but the actual fit can swing a lot depending on where you stand—literally. You’ll see ‘S’, ‘M’, ‘L’, and so on, but sometimes they’ll throw chest measurements (in inches or centimetres) on the label too. That’s helpful, but not always the full story.

One thing a lot of people notice quickly—an Irish medium isn’t always the same as a medium from a European brand like H&M or Zara. Even worse, US sizes tend to come up bigger, so a large from a Stateside shop might swallow you if you’re used to Irish fits. Local brands, like Gym+Coffee and Jack & Jones in Liffey Valley, sometimes post size charts right in the shop which is a lifesaver. Always check, especially if you’re shopping for menswear in Ireland for the first time.

Here’s a quick comparison table for men’s t-shirt sizes using common Irish chest measurements as a guide:

Decoding all this gets easier once you realize Irish blokes around 5’10” usually land somewhere in that medium or large spot, but things like torso length, how broad your shoulders are, and if you’re layering over a rugby jersey really matter. If you shop at Penneys or Dunnes, always pick up a couple of sizes to try in the changing room, especially if it’s a new style or brand.

One underrated trick? Check the washing instructions. A t-shirt that says ‘pre-shrunk’ usually means it’ll stay about the same after a spin in the dryer, but anything cotton-heavy from a discount retailer can shrink half a size—and quick. If you want your 5'10 shirt fit to stay reliable, pay attention to this while shopping in any part of the country from Belfast to Ballina.

Key Measurements if You're 5'10"

If you’re 5’10”—pretty much the average height for Irish blokes—you’re slap-bang in the middle of most shirt size Ireland charts. But the number on the label doesn’t tell the whole story. You’ll want to know a few key measurements so you don’t end up wrestling your way into a tee or looking like you’ve borrowed something from your older brother.

The most important numbers? Your chest, your shoulders, and the shirt’s actual length. Here’s what matters:

• Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, under the armpits. For a lot of guys at 5’10", this measurement is between 38 and 42 inches. Medium usually fits 38–40" chests, large covers 41–43". If you’re close to 40", it’s worth trying both on.
• Shoulders: Irish tees aren’t always tailored, but check the shoulder seam sits right on your shoulder bone. If it’s riding up or sagging off, the fit is off—even if the tag says the right size.
• Length: A shirt that lands just below your belt is a safe bet for most. Anything higher, and you risk flashing your belly every time you reach for a pint in a Kerry pub. At 5’10", most medium and large tees hit the sweet spot, but brands like Jack & Jones and Remus Uomo run a bit longer if you prefer extra coverage.

Here’s a plain example of how Irish t-shirt sizes really stack up:

If you’re shopping in places like Brown Thomas or just popping into Dunnes Stores, keep these numbers handy. Sizes in Ireland are a bit more forgiving than the tight Italian fits, so if you’re hovering between two, the smaller one often looks sharper.

And a pro tip: when in doubt, bring along a t-shirt that fits you dead on and measure it flat at home—chest (pit to pit), shoulders (seam to seam), and length (shoulder to bottom). This trick saves you loads of hassle when you see a wild sale online and the Irish returns queue is long enough to make you rethink your choices.

Where You Shop Matters: City vs Regional Stores

You’d think a shirt size Ireland chart would solve everything, but it’s never that easy. If you’re trying to pick the right size t-shirt and you’re 5’10", whether you shop in the city or in a small town has a big impact. Walk into a Marks & Spencer on Grafton Street, and you’ll see racks lined by UK sizes, usually with clear M/L/XL options and sometimes even body measurements on the tag. In Dublin, Cork, or Galway, the variety is huge—international brands like H&M or Zara mix it up even more, bringing their own spin on Irish t-shirt sizes.

On the other hand, if you’re shopping in places like Tralee, Wexford, or Sligo, you’ll see more independent shops and a lot of local Irish labels. These places may have less global influence, but they often stock clothing that’s cut a bit roomier—built for comfort and layers, given our climate. Rural stores are also less likely to get the latest European slim-fit trends, so if you prefer a relaxed fit, you may be in luck.

There’s actually a bit of science to all this. According to a 2023 survey by Retail Excellence Ireland, Dublin and Cork shoppers have access to 40% more international clothing brands compared to the national average, making city centre stores the hotspot for anyone with more specific taste or tricky sizing (like broader shoulders or long torsos).

Here’s a practical tip: if you’re shopping in the city and you’re a medium in Penneys, you might be a large in Zara, just because of how tight continental European brands run. But that same medium could be perfect in an Irish-owned shop in Donegal. Trying on before you buy can save a lot of hassle, especially if brand switches are common.

“Irish men often get caught out by the ‘one size fits all’ myth—especially when shops change their sizing between labels. Always check the size chart or try it on, even if it’s your usual size.” — Brian Conway, Retail Excellence Ireland

And don’t rely too much on staff guesses. Staff in big city stores are used to fast-moving lines and international mixes, but smaller shops, especially family-run spots, tend to offer more one-on-one help and real chat about fit. Keep this in mind the next time you’re weighing up online versus in-store buying as well, because sizing charts online sometimes gloss over the reality on Irish rails.

Trying On in Irish Fitting Rooms: What to Check

Fitting rooms in Ireland can feel like you’ve entered a maze—especially when sizes jump around depending on if you’re picking up a tee at Brown Thomas in Cork or grabbing a shirt size Ireland favourite from Dunnes. Nobody likes queuing up, but trying before you buy saves a load of hassle.

• Shoulder seams: The seam should hit right at the edge of your shoulder—no sagging halfway down your arm or riding up towards your neck. Picture yourself running for the last Luas at St. Stephen’s Green, you want to move comfortably.
• Chest and arms: Stretch your arms out in front of the mirror. If the tee pulls at the chest or back, size up. Too much bagginess and you’ll look like you borrowed it from an uncle. For 5'10 shirt fit in Irish brands, most lads sit between M and L, but always try.
• Length check: Lift your arms overhead—you don’t want your belly showing if you’re reaching up for a bag on the overhead rack going to Galway. The shirt should cover your waistband easily, but not halfway down your thighs like a nightshirt.
• Layering: Irish weather is up and down, so you’ll probably layer a tee under a jumper or a jacket. Bring your jacket with you, or try a tee over a thin vest if that’s your usual style. Some shops in Dublin will even let you bring your own layers into the room.
• Mirror check: Look at yourself facing front, the side, and turn around. Make sure the hemline is even and the tee doesn’t flare out weirdly over your hips—a common problem with cheaper brands.

Some changing rooms in busy places (think early Saturday at Penneys) have six-minute limits, so be quick but look closely. Want some peace and quiet? Go shopping around midday on a Tuesday—it’s usually quieter and staff will actually have time for advice instead of just herding crowds through.

Here’s a bonus: some Irish shops, especially in shopping centres like Liffey Valley, offer digital fitting mirrors where you can snap a quick pic to see how the tee fits all round. Handy if you hate awkward mirror angles.

Brands to Know: Popular Irish Shirt Brands and Sizing

Let’s talk about names you’ll actually see when you’re shopping for t-shirts in Ireland. If you want to be sure about shirt size Ireland, knowing the quirks of each local brand helps a lot. You’ll run into a few typical Irish favourites, some international players, and places that mix both. Here’s the lowdown:

• Penneys (Primark) – The king of affordable t-shirts. Their medium usually suits a 5'10" guy with an average build, but they can skew a bit wider. Great for basics, and since they restock often, you’ll notice fit shifts over time.
• Jack & Jones – Loads of high street shops stock this line, and their sizing is reliably ‘true to size’. Their medium fits a 38-40 inch chest, which is bang on for many Irish lads in their mid-20s to 40s who are 5'10".
• O’Neills – If you’re looking for a sports tee (classic for GAA training or just showing county pride), O’Neills sizes run a bit snug. Think about going a size up if you don’t want the sleeves to cling.
• Dubarry – Known for higher-end casuals. Their tees tend to follow standard UK sizing, but watch the length—they’re sometimes a touch shorter, which matters if you’re on the taller side of 5’10”.
• Superdry – You’ll find these everywhere from Blanchardstown Centre to Galway’s high street. The fit is more fitted than most. Don't feel bad about choosing a large even if you’re always a medium elsewhere.

Here’s a simple table to break down the typical chest measurements for a medium and large from popular shops if you’re hunting Irish t-shirt sizes:

Don’t forget online shops like Life Style Sports or the Irish branch of ASOS—they’ll show both UK and EU sizes. Best advice? Always check each shop’s own menswear Ireland chart before buying, especially if you’re in between sizes or buying as a present. Ireland’s climate can throw you curveballs, but at least when it comes to a fresh tee, you’ll know exactly what to expect from each brand.

Smart Tips for Getting a Great Fit Every Time

There’s nothing more annoying than picking up a new shirt size Ireland shoppers swear by, bringing it home, then realising it hangs like a tent or feels like a straitjacket. Avoiding that hassle is totally doable if you stick to some tried-and-true tips—ones that actually matter for Irish brands, weather, and what’s in local shops.

• Mind the Sizing Charts: Don’t trust your last shirt to guess your next size. Instead, grab a tape measure (yes, a cheap sewing one from Tesco works). Measure your chest, shoulders, and waist, then check the brand’s online sizing info. For Irish shops like Brown Thomas or Lifestyle Sports, they’ll have official UK/EU guides on their sites—use those numbers, not just S/M/L.
• Check the Fabric: Cotton tees from Penneys can shrink a bit, especially after a spin in an Irish tumble dryer. If the label says “pre-shrunk,” you’re safe, but otherwise, it’s smart to buy just a little bigger.
• Try It On—and Move: Don’t just stand there. Lift your arms, twist, and sit when you’re in the fitting room at places like Jack & Jones. If it rides up, pulls awkwardly, or sags at the shoulders, leave it behind.
• Look at the Shoulders: The seam should hit right at the edge of your shoulder—not down your arm or up towards your neck. This one little check avoids most weird-fitting Irish t-shirt sizes.
• Length Matters: A good tee should fall a few inches below your belt buckle, but not hug your bum. Irish brands tend to cut a bit longer compared to American tees, so don’t panic if it looks like extra fabric. It’s intentional—think layers for those Bray sea breezes.
• Think About Your Plans: Heading for a night out in Limerick, or hitting a GAA match in Thurles? Go for a looser fit for lounging or pints, but a closer cut if you’ll be out and about—you’ll stay comfy indoors and outside in Irish weather.

One thing to keep in mind: Irish men are on average 5'10" (178cm), so brands in the local market tend to use this as their medium or large base size. According to data from Statista, about 56% of Irish men pick medium or large as their usual size—that means, if you’re 5’10” and average build, you’re smack in the middle for most local brands.

And don’t shy away from asking for help. Shop assistants in Irish stores are used to questions about odd fits and shrinkage—they’re usually sound and can offer quick advice, especially if you mention your height and fit preferences.

Buying a shirt size Ireland that actually fits isn’t rocket science, but it’s worth remembering these tips the next time you’re sizing up a new tee. And hey, there’s no shame in bringing along a friend or even snapping a photo in the changing room to double-check before buying. Getting it right the first time saves cash, hassle, and disappointment.