Mens Chain Sizes: Finding the Perfect Fit
Men’s chain jewelry comes in a wide array of shapes, sizes, and styles. But finding the right chain size that fits you perfectly can be confusing. In fact, many men have no clue what size chain they actually need. Fear not, in this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about men’s chain sizes and how to measure for the perfect fit.
Figuring Out Your Neck Size
The first step is measuring your neck accurately to determine what chain size you require. The most common size for men’s chains is 16 to 24 inches. Start by picking a point around your neck where you want the chain to rest – usually 1 to 2 inches below the Adam’s apple is standard.
Wrap a tape measure firmly around your neck, without gaps, at that point. Take note of the measurement in inches, and round it to the nearest half-inch, as chains typically come in half-inch increments. Alternatively, you can have someone measure your neck for you while looking in a mirror to find the ideal spot.
Common Men’s Chain Sizes
16 Inches
16-inch chains typically fit loosely around a small to medium neck. If your neck measures around 15 to 16 inches, a 16-inch chain will hang properly from a medium to long length.
18 Inches
18-inch chains are a popular standard size, fitting most average adult males. If your neck measures between 16.5 to 18 inches, an 18-inch chain will give you a shorter, snugger fit.
20 Inches
A 20-inch chain will suit men with slightly larger necks ranging from 19 to 20 inches in circumference. This length chain will provide the perfect droopy fit for many guys.
Accounting For Chain Diameter
Remember that chain thickness also impacts sizing. Thinner chains appear and fit larger, while thicker chains fit smaller. If you’re shopping for a thicker chain, you may need to go up half an inch or more in length for the same fit. On the other hand, a thinner chain could work at the same or even a smaller length.
Style Considerations
The style of chain you want also affects sizing. For a box chain or herringbone chain, you’ll likely need a longer length for the same fit as a rope chain. Figuring out your ideal chain style first and then measuring precisely for that style will ensure the best fit.
FAQs about the men’s chain sizes
The average length for most men’s chain is 20in, which falls at the collarbone. A helpful visual of where the average chain falls is between the top two buttons on a shirt, just below where the collarbone sits. Overall, chain lengths range from 18in – 30in with each size corresponding to the look you are going for.
The Short Answer: The average chain length for men is 20 inches. Most men of average height and build purchase 20 inch chain necklaces. Some opt for 22” if they want a slightly longer hang length, others 24” or even longer, if they prefer their chains longer.
For most men’s chains, 50 cm (20”) is the average length. This falls at the collar bone between the top two buttons on a shirt and looks good inside or outside the shirt. If you’re wearing a pendant necklace, opt for 55-63 cm (22-25”) so the pendant finishes in the middle of your chest.
So “the right fit” is really dependent on your specific body and size. In general, however, men’s necklace lengths range from 16” to 30”. And in most cases, the 20-22” lengths are considered the right fit for the average man’s height and build.
Chains 4–5 mm thick are the most practical and versatile. They are usually chosen to be worn with crosses, pendants and pendants. The average thickness makes them suitable for any look. Chains 6–20 mm thick are usually worn on their own, without pendants or pendants.
Check out this post to learn more about how to choose the right necklace length: