What is the difference between Swingman and authentic jerseys?
The one key difference between the two tags is a separate, smaller tag that is sewn onto the main patch. On an Authentic jersey, this patch will say “Authentic,” whereas on a Swingman jersey it'll say “Swingman.” Another key difference between Authentic and Swingman jerseys is the sizing location.
Men's Nike Swingman Jersey Sizing | ||
Swingman | Chest | Length |
---|---|---|
40 (S) | 35-37.5" | 27.7" |
44 (M) | 37.5-41" | 28.1" |
48 (L) | 41-44" | 28.9" |
As mentioned throughout the article, the Nike Swingman runs true to size, but expect it to fit slim, so if you want a baggy jersey with a looser overall fit, you will definitely need to size up. If you are in between sizes, my recommendation is to size up.
Distinguishing Swingman and Authentic jerseys is not easy. Both are slim and fit. However, you can tell them apart by their length. Authentic jerseys are usually about two inches shorter than Swingman jerseys.
Swingman: With a slim yet roomier fit compared to an authentic jersey, swingman jerseys have been made to be worn comfortably every day. They offer more room in the shoulders and along the body, making them perfect for wearing over t-shirts and tank tops.
Swingman jerseys are jerseys that are made to resemble an authentic or original jersey at a lesser cost while replica jerseys are jerseys that are also styled like the authentic jersey but are more expensive. 2. Swingman jerseys are more durable than replica jerseys.
Swingman. Swingman jerseys can be a great choice for fans wanting fashion without the premier price. This jersey option uses a mid-level fabric and features twill numbers and lettering. Swingman jerseys use traditional sizing rather than the numbered sizes of authentic jerseys.
In basketball, the term “swingman” (a.k.a. “wing” or “guard-forward”) denotes a player who can play both the shooting guard (2) and small forward (3) positions, and in essence swing between the positions.
The Nike Swingman jersey lettering and numbers are screen printed on. Adidas Swingman and Nike Authentic editions are twill stitched. Sweatshops often miss this detail and it's one of the easiest ways to tell if an NBA jersey is authentic.
In general, NFL Jerseys will fit a little larger, but that depends on the jersey type. We recommend buying the next size up jersey if you plan on wearing clothes underneath (hoodies, t-shirts, etc).
Should a jersey be oversized?
Always go one size bigger
They're not meant to be a tight fit, especially if your physique is more Vince Wilfork than Matt Ryan. Leave plenty of room so you can fit the jersey over a sweatshirt, which obscures your gut and keeps you warm.
There are no universal standards for clothing sizing
Some people like a tight-fitting jersey while others may prefer a looser fit. For example, a player with a 40” chest may prefer to wear a jersey which measures 42”; while another player with same build may feel great in a 44” jersey.

Fit: Replica vs Authentic
Probably the most important and notable distinction between Replica and Authentic soccer jerseys is the way they fit. When it comes to fit, just keep this in mind: Replica kits are built like t-shirts or polos, while Authentics are tighter, slim and form-fitting.
Authentic jerseys are designed with the best possible technology and fabrics for the highest level of play. They are an exact match to the jerseys you see players wearing on the field. Replica jerseys are made for a fan in the stands - with excellent materials for highest levels of comfort and wear.
Soccer jerseys vary in size between brands, as some are cut a little bigger than others. Also, kits ordered from overseas tend to run smaller than jerseys sold on the American market. Authentic jerseys also tend to have a tighter fit, since modern players prefer their kits to be as non-bulky as possible.
When it comes to washing your favourite NBA or NFL number, whether it's an authentic or swingman jersey, they all need to be cleaned in a cold water, either in the washing machine or by hand. The reason is that hot water may make the colours run, while also weakening the adhesive of any screen-printed details.
Jerseys are often made from polyester or synthetic fabrics that are machine-washable, but some jerseys feature embroidered letters or numbers that require extra care. In general, when washing a sports jersey or other workout clothes, it's best to use cold water and to avoid the dryer.
If you are shopping for NBA jerseys, you have 5 different types to choose from. Quickly, here's what you need to know: Nike Swingman – This is Nike's more affordable replica option.
A swingman in basketball is a term used to describe a player who has the skillset to play as either a shooting guard (SG) or a small forward (SF). Swingmen are also commonly referred to as “wings,” “guard/forwards,” or “tweeners.”
The Mitchell and Ness Swingman jersey fit true to size, but does fit slim. It is slim in both the shoulders and the stomach. The jersey has a nice tailored fit that (in my opinion) fits true to size and doesn't require you to size up.
What does a fake NBA jersey look like?
You can often tell an NBA jersey is legitimate when the NBA logo is embroidered onto the jersey with different coloured layers of stitching. Fake NBA jerseys lack this detail and usually have a sewn on or heat applied patch.
Pay special attention to the numbers on the jersey, if they appear shiny, don't lay evenly flat and contain bubbling, you're looking at a fake jersey. Most fans know what their team's font looks like and this will help them spot fakes as most counterfeit jerseys use the wrong font for the team which is very noticeable.
Replica Fan Jerseys
NBA replica jerseys are made to look like the ones worn on the court, but are the least expensive of the three. Replica jerseys offer the same styles but are lighter, and use a heat press printing process for the lettering and numbering. Replicas are made from a less durable light-weight mesh.
The straps are secure enough so they don't fall off your shoulders. Your cycling jersey should fit snugly, with the cuffs fitting close enough to avoid chafing but also not digging into your arm—think tighter than a t-shirt, but less tight than a base layer.
How To Measure Men's Jersey Size. Measure around the fullest part of your chest under the arms for your total chest circumference. If you're on the borderline between two sizes, order the smaller size for a tighter fit or the larger size for a looser fit.
- Check the care label on your jersey. Determine if your jersey is made of natural or synthetic fabric.
- Put your jersey in the washing machine and select a hot wash and medium rinse cycle.
- Take your jersey out of the washer and put it in the dryer. ...
- Repeat the process until you're happy with the size of your shirt.
No, modern soccer jerseys do not shrink. BUT, this doesn't necessarily mean that you can blindly throw them into the wash with just anything. They're still delicate and need a little attention. We'll break that down below.
Hoodie: When it gets cold outside but you still want to showcase your pride and joy, wearing your jersey over a hoodie is a comfy look. Similar to choosing a t-shirt, leave the graphic hoodies at home and stick with simple colours like white, grey or black for under your jersey.
Do NBA jerseys run big or small? In general, NBA jerseys run small. Most NBA jerseys have an athletic, slim fit, which mimics the slim-fitting jerseys that the players wear in the NBA.
0 isn't wearing a number at all. (And “00” would be doubly controversial.) In sports, players wearing “0” or “00” are uncommon. Most teams won't assign those numbers. Players usually have to request them, perhaps thinking that “0” or “00” will distinguish them and make them stand out.
How big is an XL jersey?
S | XL | |
---|---|---|
Jersey Size | 46 | 52 |
Chest | 42 | 54 |
Front Length | 30 | 33 |
Back Length | 32 | 35 |
...
Sizing Charts.
AUTHENTIC BASEBALL JERSEYS | ||
---|---|---|
Jersey Size | Corresponding Size | Armpit to Armpit |
48 | X-Large | 25-1/2" |
52 | XX-Large | 27-1/2" |
54 | XXX-Large | 28" |
People often misunderstand the word 'replica' to mean 'fake'. However this is not true! Replica means that the jersey is a more comfortable, relaxed fit jersey that is more suited for wearing casually and as a fan watching the game.
Replica goods are considered to be legitimate copies because they do not bear the branded product's trademark. So, while a replica might have the same feature and functionality of a famous or branded product, it usually carries a different symbol or logo which is admittedly similar to the famous one.
What Jersey Frame Size Do I Need? Start off by measuring your jersey which will make it much easier to find the right frame size. Most jerseys will either be 30” by 36” or 32” by 40”. It's also a good idea to bring your jersey with you while shopping for your shadow box or standard frame.
- CHEST: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the measuring tape horizontal.
- WAIST: Measure around the narrowest part (typically where your body bends side to side), keeping the tape horizontal.
- HIPS: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, keeping the tape horizontal.
Use Clothespins to Stretch a Soccer Jersey
Clothespins can be used to hang your clothes to dry, but they can also be used to stretch your jersey back to its original size and form. Put clothespins in place, walk out the door, and let the jersey expand on its own for a quick way to make it wider.
In short, a swingman jersey is a type of NBA fan replica jersey that does not have all the premium finishes of an authentic jersey but still closely mimics the jerseys the players wear.
Swingman. Swingman jerseys can be a great choice for fans wanting fashion without the premier price. This jersey option uses a mid-level fabric and features twill numbers and lettering. Swingman jerseys use traditional sizing rather than the numbered sizes of authentic jerseys.
: a player capable of playing effectively in two different positions and especially of playing both guard and forward on a basketball team.
Should I wash my Swingman jersey?
When it comes to washing your favourite NBA or NFL number, whether it's an authentic or swingman jersey, they all need to be cleaned in a cold water, either in the washing machine or by hand. The reason is that hot water may make the colours run, while also weakening the adhesive of any screen-printed details.
Jerseys are often made from polyester or synthetic fabrics that are machine-washable, but some jerseys feature embroidered letters or numbers that require extra care. In general, when washing a sports jersey or other workout clothes, it's best to use cold water and to avoid the dryer.
Adidas Swingman and Nike Authentic editions are twill stitched. Sweatshops often miss this detail and it's one of the easiest ways to tell if an NBA jersey is authentic. Making sure both letters and numbers are aligned is important as fake NBA jerseys often fail to space letters apart evenly.
No, Nike Swingman jerseys are not stitched. Nike Swingman jerseys have screen-printed graphics. If you are looking for a stitched Nike NBA jersey, you will need to buy a Nike Authentic jersey – click here to view the Nike Authentic jerseys at NBAStore.com (affiliate link takes you to NBAStore.com).
- CHEST: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the measuring tape horizontal.
- WAIST: Measure around the narrowest part (typically where your body bends side to side), keeping the tape horizontal.
- HIPS: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, keeping the tape horizontal.