what is the correct way to measure a male's chest?

[zixxer]

I'm having some trouble with the correct sizing on a jacket.. do you measure directly under the arms (like in your armpit) around, or the widest part of your chest, or what?

http://www.alpinestars.com/sizing/

There's the manufacturer's site on sizing.. I have a 32 waist, weigh about 165-170, about 5'10. From what I can determine (wearing just an undershirt, using a string around my chest at the widest part (just above the nips..)) my chest is a 40

Take a look at the chart in that link, if you scroll down I should be an international suit size 50, USA 40. However, the jacket in that size seems awefully small.


I'm seeking your opinion/help because the jacket may break in.. being a bike jacket, the leather is thick. The manufacturer is kind of 'difficult' to deal with.. they're like just try one on.. but the 40/50 seems a little small, and the 42/52 seems about right but like it might be too loose once it's broken in... a $350 mistake is expensive...

http://www.newenough.com/alpinestars_tz1_jacket_page.htm

What size should I get?

 

[Syringer]

Using your measurement technique, I'm 39 inches around my chest, am 5'9 180 and wear a size 40.. Go to a store and try it on.

 

[zixxer]

Originally posted by: Syringer
Using your measurement technique, I'm 39 inches around my chest, am 5'9 180 and wear a size 40.. Go to a store and try it on.

I actually purchased both from an online store (newenough.com) which is the best place to buy gear from, imo... so I have both of them in front of me... I guess my question is more of whether or not leather jackets tend to 'break in'