Nike vs adidas: training sweatshirts.

This guide compares Nike and adidas size guidance; the garments simply show how fit notes differ from one product page to another. A loose hoodie and a regular-fit crew sweatshirt are not equivalent garments.

The details reflect official pages checked on 12 October 2026 and may change. Reopen the guide and product selector before buying. This header is an editorial illustration, not an official Nike or adidas photograph and not a depiction of the products named below.

What this guide compares—and what it does not

We compare how to use each brand's men's tops chart and what an individual product page adds. We do not claim that Nike always runs larger or smaller than adidas, or extend one product's advice to every garment from either brand.

The examples cover men's training apparel. If you are shopping for women's or kids' clothing, open the relevant category: charts and patterns can differ.

Nike: start with your measurements and check the cut

Nike's official men's tops size guide says its chart uses body measurements. For a sweatshirt, measure your chest as shown and check waist and hips as well. If chest and waist suggest different sizes, Nike's guide says to choose based on chest.

As one product-page example, the Nike N.A.C. Dri-FIT Fleece Training Hoodie (IF2203-320) is described as loose fit and shows a model wearing size M at 191 cm. That helps picture the photographed item; it cannot predict how it will fit another person or convert a size from another brand.

If you prefer less room, compare the fit description and measurements of the product you are considering. Do not change size just because the collection name matches—check the cut and instructions on that specific page.

adidas: use the chart and the item's fit note

The official adidas men's tops size guide lists body-measurement ranges for chest, waist and hips. Measure as instructed and use the current chart for the right category and market; do not compare a body measurement with the flat width of a garment.

The adidas Designed for Training Crew Sweatshirt page (article JJ4642) describes a regular fit and recommends your usual size for that item. This is a product-specific clue, not a promise about every adidas sweatshirt or a conversion to Nike.

If the page changes, follow the guide and description shown when you shop. Available sizes can also vary by colour or season.

Compare your body with the chart, and garment with garment

Both brands' charts list body measurements; a finished sweatshirt includes ease and reflects its pattern. Do not treat a garment's flat measurement as your chest circumference.

For a second reference, lay a sweatshirt that fits the way you like flat. Measure pit to pit, shoulders, sleeve and length without stretching the fabric. Use the same method on the garment you are checking and note details such as a hood, thick cuffs or a tightened hem, which can change how the fit feels.

Nike explains what to do when chest and waist point to different sizes. For adidas, check the chart and any recommendation on the exact product page. Do not convert M directly to M or transfer advice from a different clothing category.

Do a simple movement check

With the sweatshirt on, reach forward, raise your arms and cross them gently. Check the shoulders, chest, sleeve length and whether the hem rides up. For training, the fit should allow the movement you plan to make; stretch fabric or a loose-fit label does not make a restrictive garment suitable.

Decide whether you will wear it over a T-shirt or as an outer layer. Test that combination and consider the weather you expect. This guide covers transitional training sweatshirts; it does not recommend a thermal or winter layer.

If you are between sizes

First make sure you measured as the brand's diagram shows. Then read the product fit note: Nike N.A.C. is described as loose, while adidas Designed for Training is regular fit and recommends your usual size. Those are different clues, not a conversion between the garments.

If you want more room, check whether the style comes in a roomier cut. If sleeve or body length is your main concern, sizing up may add volume where the fit was already right. For more help, see what to do between two sizes and why sizes vary between brands.

The useful conclusion is not “Nike M equals adidas M”. It is to compare your body measurement with the right chart and read the cut of the exact product you plan to buy.