Almost every fit complaint about ponchos traces back to somebody ordering a size name instead of a measurement.

Measure the span

Span is hem to hem across the shoulders with the poncho laid flat. It is the number that decides whether the garment sits on the shoulders or slides off them.

For a changing poncho, span also decides whether somebody can move their elbows enough to actually change underneath. That is the entire purpose of the garment, so it is worth over-specifying rather than under.

Then decide the length, seated

Measure or estimate from the shoulder to where you want the hem — while sitting down, if the wearers will be sitting down. Standing length flatters the photograph and fails in the stand.

Front and back lengths can differ. A longer back is usually welcome on a seat; a longer front is welcome on a bike or a folding chair.

Age bands beat sizes for children

For a school or a club, quote by age band with the span and length written out for each band. Small, medium and large across four year groups produces a fitting session; four bands produces a sorting job.

Put the band on the label and on the bag. Whoever hands them out will not be the person who ordered them.

Write the measurements down

Record the span and length that worked, and which group got which. The reorder then becomes a line of email rather than a repeat of the whole exercise.

We keep your measurements on file for the same reason.