The Forge — Guides
What length Cuban chain should you get?
The number one question before buying a Cuban link chain is length. Get it right and the chain sits exactly where you pictured it. Get it wrong and it chokes at the collar or disappears under a shirt. Here is exactly where 18, 20, and 22 inches land — and how to pick yours in two minutes.
The FORGD 8mm Cuban at 22 inches — gold and silver, real wear.
Where each length sits
| Length | Where it sits | Best for | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18" | Base of the neck — choker fit | Slim necks, visible above a crew collar | Measure first — snug on thicker necks |
| 20" | Just below the collarbone | Slimmer builds, a higher and closer fit | The safe everyday length |
| 22" | Mid-chest | Average to athletic builds, over or under a shirt | Most popular for an 8mm Cuban |
Measure in two minutes
- Wrap a soft tape — or a string you measure after — around the base of your neck.
- Add inches for the drop you want: +2" close at the collar, +4" at the collarbone, +6" mid-chest.
- Between sizes? Size up. A Cuban link wears shorter than a flat chain because of its width.
The short answer
For most men, 22 inches is the answer — especially on an 8mm Cuban. It clears the collar, sits mid-chest, and works in the gym and out of it. Choose 20 inches if you are slimmer or want it higher; 18 inches only if you deliberately want a choker fit.
Gold
The FORGD Gold 8mm Cuban
Waterproof, sweatproof, FORGD Lifetime Guarantee. Shop the 22".
Silver
The FORGD Silver 8mm Cuban
Same build, cool finish. FORGD Lifetime Guarantee. Shop the 22".
Common questions
What is the most popular Cuban chain length for men?
22 inches is the most popular length for an 8mm Cuban link chain. It sits mid-chest on most men, works over or under a shirt, and suits average to athletic builds. 20 inches is the safer pick for slimmer builds or a higher, closer fit.
Is an 18 inch chain too short for men?
Not necessarily. An 18 inch chain sits at the base of the neck like a choker. It suits slimmer necks and men who want the chain visible above a crew collar. On a thicker neck it can feel tight, so measure before choosing 18 inches.
How do I measure my neck for a chain?
Wrap a soft tape (or a string, then measure the string) around the base of your neck where a chain would sit. Add 2 inches for a close fit at the collar, 4 inches for a standard fit at the collarbone, and 6 inches for a mid-chest drop.
Should I choose gold or silver?
Choose by skin tone and wardrobe. Gold flatters warm undertones and darker clothing; silver flatters cool undertones and pairs with almost anything. Both FORGD chains are the same 8mm Cuban build, waterproof and sweatproof, so the choice is purely style.
Will an 8mm Cuban chain look too big?
8mm is the sweet spot for a statement Cuban link: substantial enough to read as a Cuban, not so heavy it overwhelms. At 22 inches it drapes naturally and moves with you during training.
Still unsure? Open the full size guide or ask us directly — we answer within 24 hours.