Shopping for a jacket can be a hassle, especially if you can’t tell the different tags used to identify the sizes available. For starters, you may come across initials like 38R and 38S, which denote two distinct sizes. Before choosing between 38R vs 38S, you must understand what they mean.
The 38R is a regular-sized jacket with a chest width of 38” (96.5 cm), while the 38S is a short-sized jacket with a 38” (96.5 cm) chest width. The difference between 38R and 38S is that the former has a 33” – 34” (83.8 – 86.4 cm) sleeve, while the latter’s sleeve length is under 33” (83.8 cm).
I’ll describe 38R and 38S jackets and their differences in this post.
38R vs 38S: Comparison Table
For starters, here’s a table summary of the key features of these two common sizes:
| 38R | 38S | |
| Chest Width | 36” – 38” (91 – 96.5 cm) | 36” – 38” (91 – 96.5 cm) |
| Over Arm | 44” – 46” (111.7 – 116.8 cm) | 44” – 46” (111.7 – 116.8 cm) |
| Waist | 29” – 32” (73.6 – 81.2 cm) | 29” – 32” (73.6 – 81.2 cm) |
| Hip | 35” – 38” (88.9 – 96.5 cm) | 35” – 38” (88.9 – 96.5 cm) |
| Neck | 14.5” – 15.5” (36.8 – 39.4 cm) | 14.5” – 15.5” (36.8 – 39.4 cm) |
| Sleeve Length | 33” – 34” (83.8 – 86.4 cm) | < 33” (<83.8 cm) |
| Height | 5’ 8” – 6’ (1.7 – 1.8 m) | < 5’ 8.5” (1.7 m) |
Let’s look at each jacket in detail.
An Overview of the 38R Jacket
The 38 R jacket is one of the many sizes on the market.
The jacket is designed for someone with average body size, making it the middle-ground between Small (S) and Large (L) variants. Specifically, the R stands for Regular, meaning it fits more people with regular body sizes and shapes than S and L.
A striking feature of the 38R is its longer sleeve length than the 38S’s, usually under 33” – 34” (84 – 86 cm). If you’re taller than 5’ 8.5” (1.7 m) and need a jacket that provides extra room without sacrificing style, try the 38R.
What About the 38S Jacket?
On the other hand, the 38S jacket is designed to fit anyone shorter than average.
The S stands for Short, and these jackets typically feature sleeves shorter than 33” (84 cm).
As a rule of thumb, I recommend the 38S if you’re shorter than 5’ 8.5” (1.7 m), don’t want your sleeves too long, or simply need something tailored to your shorter frame.
The Differences Between 38R and 38S Jackets
So, what sets the 38R apart from the 38S? The answer lies in two critical aspects:
- The sleeve length: The 38R has a longer sleeve than the 38S. That’s expected since the 38R is designed for shorter men.
- The overall fit: If you’re looking for a slimmer fit, consider the 38S. This style offers an ultra-chic and comfortable look sure to turn heads.
Tips for Buying a Jacket in the Right Size
Buying the right size jacket isn’t just about knowing the sizes available. A few essential guidelines can help you pick a new suit jacket that looks best on you.
Here are a few tips:
- Measure your height and chest circumference. You don’t want a jacket that makes you uncomfortable or feels baggy, so you want to use a tailor’s tape to determine the right fit.
- Try on several sizes before buying. Some jackets fit you better than others, and while brands label their products using R, S, and L, one brand’s R may differ. Therefore, the only way to be sure is to have a try-on.
- Don’t forget personal style. Pick something that brings out who you are, as there’s nothing worse than wearing clothing forced on you by fashion trends.
- Ask for help if necessary. Sales associates and customer support will offer the expertise that may help you make the best choice.
Extra Tip: Ask for the relevant size charts when shopping. These charts provide specific measurements for different jacket sizes, which will be useful when choosing a particular brand’s 38R vs 38S.
That said, here’s a quick video summary of what the initials R, S, and L mean when shopping for a jacket:
Summary
Shopping for the perfect-fitting suit jacket can be tricky. However, distinguishing between R and S is a surefire way to get the best deal. The key to avoiding fashion bloopers is knowing these facts:
- R stands for Regular: Pick the 38R if you’re 5’ 8” – 6’ (1.5 – 1.8 m) tall and need long sleeves.
- S stands for Small: Go with the 38S if you’re under 5’ 8.5” (1.5 m) and need shorter sleeves.
These aren’t hard and fast rules, so try on different sizes from several brands to get the best fit!