Quick answer
To get the right size in the Great Lakes Loons Gumball Shorts, measure your child's waist and hips, then compare with the Baseballism youth size chart—these shorts run true to size but have a relaxed fit through the leg.
Why the right size matters
The Gumball Shorts are a fan favorite at Dow Diamond, and getting the size right means your young fan stays comfortable whether they're in the stands or playing catch. A too-tight waistband can ruin a game day, while a too-loose fit might have them pulling up their shorts all afternoon.
Baseballism designs these shorts with an athletic cut, so they're not as slim as typical fashion shorts. This means the waist measurement is the most critical number, but the hip and inseam also play a role in overall comfort.
Understanding the Baseballism fit
The Gumball Shorts are made by Baseballism, a brand known for its quality and attention to detail. Their youth sizing follows standard athletic sizing, but because these are shorts, the fit is designed to allow movement—perfect for running bases or cheering from the bleachers.
One thing to note: the shorts are available in youth sizes S-XL. If your child is between sizes, we recommend sizing up for a more relaxed fit, especially if they plan to wear them over a base layer or athletic tights.
How to measure for the Gumball Shorts
- Measure the waist: Use a soft measuring tape around your child's natural waist, just above the belly button. Keep the tape snug but not tight, and make sure it's level all the way around. This is the most important measurement for shorts. Common mistake: measuring over bulky clothing adds inches—measure over a thin layer or bare skin.
- Measure the hips: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of the hips and buttocks, keeping it parallel to the floor. This measurement matters if your child has a more athletic build or is between sizes. Checkpoint: If the hip measurement is larger than the waist by more than 8 inches, consider sizing up for a comfortable fit.
- Compare with the size chart: Using the measurements, compare with the Baseballism youth size chart. Match the waist measurement first, then confirm the hip measurement falls within the range. If your child is between sizes, choose the larger size for room to grow and move. Common mistake: relying on age instead of measurements—age-based sizing is unreliable because kids grow at different rates.
- Check the inseam length: If possible, measure a pair of shorts that fit well from the crotch seam to the hem. The Gumball Shorts have a standard athletic inseam, so compare this to your child's preferred length. If they like longer shorts, size up. Checkpoint: If the inseam is too short, the shorts will ride up during activity—size up if your child is between sizes.
- Consider the fit preference: Think about how your child likes their shorts to fit. If they prefer a looser, more relaxed feel, size up. If they like a closer fit, stick with the exact size from the chart. Common mistake: choosing a size based on the t-shirt size—shorts fit differently than tops, so always measure.
About the product
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Great Lakes Loons Baseballism Gumball Shorts - Youth: The Great Lakes Loons Baseballism Gumball Shorts are available in Youth sizes S-XL. This limited size range means you need to measure carefully to find the best match, especially if your child is at the upper or lower end of the range.
Great Lakes Loons Baseballism Gumball Shorts - Youth
