Need advice on off-the-rack leathers

[sokitset]

I need some advice on buying leathers.   I've always owned custom suits because I've been too tall/thin to make off the shelf stuff work very well.  Since my last purchase I've filled out some and I need to get a new suit.  I thought I might now be a shape that would fit in an off the rack piece but I'm getting mixed signals.

I'm right on the numbers for a size 44 (according to Alpinestars sizing chart) but I'm being told (by some) that the measurement from shoulder to crotch is going to be too small for me in that size.  A size 46 would be better in this area but according to the sizing charts everything else would be baggy.  I don't want to deal with that.

For reference, I'm 6'1", about 195 pounds, 34" waist, 34" inseam, 43" around the chest.

Second concern.  Are off the rack suit sizes compensating for the use of a back protector or does that need to be factored into my measurements?

What are you wearing? Any advice would be appreciated.

Steve
spmoore39@yahoo.com

[bryanderr]

try a spidi or teknic 46. They are built for thinner folk. The 46 will give you the length you need and won't be as baggy as an alpinestar or agv suit.(If you go with spidi you'll need to specify a euro size 56)

[Super Dave]

I'm 5'9" and 170 plus.  Vanson 44's fit me. 

You being 6'1"...I rent leathers, and I'd think that I'd need to put you into a 48 so you don't get chopped up down below.  Might be baggy in the waist, though.

I'd look for an opportunity to try on an example.

I wear Vanson's because they, in my opinion, are one of the most durable and repairable leather suits available.  Protection is awesome.  They are made in the USA with US sourced leather, if that makes a difference to you.

[Jeff]

Get a suit in the ballpark sizing and then have it customized by Alexa (spyder leatherworks).  That's pretty much what I do...

For suits, talk to someone who can get you your RIGHT size for the brand you want.  Audrey Menarik from www.motoliberty.com sells more suits than many places combined...  She knows what she's dealing with and can help you tremendously.  800-214-RACE

Rob from Lithium Motorsports also carries suits to tracks, so you can try it on before purchasing which is a definite benefit as well...

[tstruyk]

I think rob is about that size... maybe a touch taller... I go 6ft 220 and change...  my Taichi suit is a 4L I believe, would defiantely fit someone your build.  My buddy Josh bought Rob's old taichi suit... I think he goes 6'2 220... your right in the ball park there.

try a few, find one that fits, Alexa can clean it up if need be.  Some suits are easier to alter, maybe get her opinion if you plan to make alterations...

[spyderchick]

RS Taichi are very easy to alter.

[HAWK]

I'm 6' and about 185, I wear a 34 waist in levis, I bought an Alpinestar suit last year in a 44/54 and I also wear the Alpinestar back protector under it. This suit fits me VERY snug (read, suck it in to zip up), I could probably wear a 46/56 just fine but also did not want the bagginess.

[Jeff]

See, and in the Hein Gericke Celtic suit you would find a 44 to be big in the arms/legs but fit fine in the waist & length would probably be perfect for you.  It's all in the manufacture of the suit.

[spyderchick]

There is no standarization in the garment industry. Period. One of the things that has always annoyed me, be it jeans, shoes or leathers. The best thing to do is find out what each manufacturer skews towards, i.e. tall/thin, tall/hefty, short torso, baggy torso, that sort of thing. Then you can choose from a brand that more closely fits your body type.