PPE and Workwear Size Guide
How to measure, and typical UK sizes for work clothing, trousers, hi-vis and gloves.
These are typical sizes, a starting point only. Every style is cut differently, so the size information on the product page or its datasheet always takes priority.
How to measure
- Chest: around the fullest part of the chest, under the arms, keeping the tape level.
- Waist: around the natural waistline, where you would normally wear work trousers.
- Inside leg: from the crotch to the floor, measured on a pair of trousers that fit you well.
- Hand: around the widest part of the palm, excluding the thumb, and from the wrist crease to the tip of the middle finger.
Work clothing and hi-vis
Typical UK sizing for jackets, vests, polo shirts, coveralls and other tops. Hi-vis is usually worn over other layers, so allow room for them.
| Size | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|
| S | 34-36 in (86-91 cm) | 28-30 in (71-76 cm) |
| M | 38-40 in (97-102 cm) | 32-34 in (81-86 cm) |
| L | 42-44 in (107-112 cm) | 36-38 in (91-97 cm) |
| XL | 46-48 in (117-122 cm) | 40-42 in (102-107 cm) |
| 2XL | 50-52 in (127-132 cm) | 44-46 in (112-117 cm) |
| 3XL | 54-56 in (137-142 cm) | 48-50 in (122-127 cm) |
Work trousers
Trousers are usually sold by waist size in inches, with a leg length of regular, tall or short. Regular is typically around 31 in (79 cm) inside leg, tall around 34 in (86 cm) and short around 29 in (74 cm), but check the leg length stated on each style. Holster pocket and stretch styles can fit differently from plain cotton trousers, so compare the waist chart on the product page.
Gloves (EN 420)
Protective gloves are sized under EN 420 by hand circumference and hand length. Match your measurements to the nearest size, and take the larger size if you fall between two.
| Glove size | Usually sold as | Hand circumference | Hand length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | XS | 152 mm | 160 mm |
| 7 | S | 178 mm | 171 mm |
| 8 | M | 203 mm | 182 mm |
| 9 | L | 229 mm | 192 mm |
| 10 | XL | 254 mm | 204 mm |
| 11 | 2XL | 279 mm | 215 mm |
Head, eye, ear and breathing protection
Bump caps, helmets, ear defenders and safety glasses are mostly adjustable, so the product page matters more than a chart: check the stated head size range and the fit adjustment. Tight-fitting masks and respirators have to seal against the face to work. Where they are worn as respiratory protective equipment at work, the wearer normally needs a face fit test, so see the HSE guidance and read our FFP2 and FFP3 guide.
Sizing questions
What if I am between two sizes?
For work clothing, size up if you wear layers underneath or need room to bend and reach, and size down if you want a closer fit. For gloves, choose the larger size if your hand falls between two, because a tight glove restricts movement and tires the hand.
Should hi-vis be bought a size up?
Hi-vis vests, jackets and coveralls are usually worn over other clothing, so choose a size that fits comfortably over your normal work layers. Check the size chart on the product page, as cut varies between styles.
Are these charts exact?
No. They are typical UK sizes to help you choose. Each style is cut differently, so use the size information on the product page or its datasheet, which takes priority over this guide.
Can I return an item that does not fit?
Unworn items can be returned within our returns period, see the returns page for the conditions. Some items, such as respirators in sealed packaging, have limits for hygiene reasons.
Still not sure? Ask us with the product and your measurements and we will help you choose.