What Size Jersey for a 12-Year-Old?

A 12-year-old typically wears a Youth L, with taller or bigger 12-year-olds fitting a Youth XL. Youth L covers a chest of 32 to 34 inches and height of 56 to 60 inches, while Youth XL covers 34 to 36 inches and 60 to 63 inches. Some 12-year-olds are ready for adult sizes, so measure carefully and compare to our Kids Soccer Jersey Sizing Guide before deciding.

Youth XL or Adult S?

At 12, kids straddle the line between youth and adult sizing. Youth XL and Adult S overlap heavily in measurements, but the cuts differ: adult jerseys are longer in the body and wider in the shoulders. If your 12-year-old is tall and lean, Adult S often fits better. If they are average height, Youth XL usually wins. Try the measuring routine and let chest and height decide, not the age on the label.

Style Preferences Kick In

Twelve-year-olds care about how they look on the field. Many want the fitted pro style they see on TV, which is fine as long as the jersey still passes the movement test in how a kids soccer jersey should fit. Just do not let style win over function: a jersey that looks sharp but restricts a throw-in or rides up every sprint is the wrong size. For the style-versus-comfort debate, see should soccer jerseys be tight or loose.

Find a jersey your 12-year-old will actually want to wear in our Kids Jerseys collection and Team Jerseys collection, or contact us for help choosing between youth and adult sizing.