Knitting for Men: an Illustration of Torso Length

When looking through pictures from the Guilloche Pullover Lite photoshoot, I could hardly believe how perfect this one was for illustrating something I try to explain to anyone who asks about knitting sweaters for men: the importance of considering torso and arm length.

Needless to say, both female and male measurements can vary greatly; we are all shaped as individuals. However, on average, speaking broadly, yadda-yadda, there are a few general differences between female and male proportions. The shoulder-to-waist-to-hip ratio is the most obvious one. But when it comes to boxy oversized knitwear, it is arguably not all that crucial. The already roomy garment will simply fit with different amounts of ease over different parts of the body.

More important to consider is length - because this factor cannot be ignored no matter how shapeless and oversized the garment.

As you look at this photo of Maria and Ryan, take a moment to observe something interesting. Obviously, Ryan is quite a bit taller. He is 17cm taller in fact, according to my measurements.

Now look at the location of Ryan’s inseam, and also at Maria’s inseam. Do you see where I am going with this now? They are the same! This means that Maria and Ryan have the same length legs. And most of Ryan’s extra height is in his torso.

Now again, not all men are shaped like this. Ryan is an extreme example of the long male torso. But extreme examples are good for illustrating the principle of a thing, so I hope seeing this is useful.

The Guilloche Pullover Lite offers instructions for a cropped, standard, and extended bodice length - with a note that some men will require additional length (beyond the extended). For reference, the jumper Ryan is wearing has 3 additional chart repeats in the bodice. And 2 additional repeats worked for the sleeves to accommodate his equally long arms.

As mentioned already, Ryan is a somewhat extreme example of these proportions. There are plenty of men with short torsos and arms. But on average, a randomly selected male will have a longer torso and arms than a randomly selected female. At the very least, you will typically need the extended length if knitting the Guilloche Lite for a man. To be certain, I would measure either the wearer (from underarms to the point where the hem should sit), or an existing pullover that fits him the way he likes.

And of course if you do need additional length, take into account that you will need extra yarn! Exactly how much is difficult to determine when it comes to custom length, but on the safe side I would personally just opt for an entire extra skein (100g).

…sure, you can always knit a Guilloche Beanie with the leftovers!