Size Grading for Activewear: Why One Size Chart Fails in Three Markets
US, UK and EU sizing are not interchangeable, and activewear fit is less forgiving than most categories. Here is how to grade sizes correctly for each market.
Shipping the same size chart to the US, UK, and EU guarantees returns. Body measurements differ, size labels differ, and activewear leaves no room for error — a legging that is 2 cm off will slide, roll, or cut in.
The Core Measurements
- Waist (relaxed and stretched)
- Hip — the most common fit failure point
- Inseam — 7/8 vs full length changes everything
- Rise — high-rise dominates modern activewear
- Thigh circumference — critical for compression styles
Size Label Conversion
| US | UK | EU |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 | 4–6 | 32–34 |
| 4–6 | 8–10 | 36–38 |
| 8–10 | 12–14 | 40–42 |
| 12–14 | 16–18 | 44–46 |
Use this as a starting point only. Actual body measurements vary by brand and by market — always sample against real fit models in your target region.
Where Grading Goes Wrong
- Grading hip and waist at the same rate (they do not scale equally)
- Ignoring inseam differences between markets
- Skipping plus sizes that carry strong demand
- Assuming a fit model from one region represents another
Tolerance Matters
Set and enforce a measurement tolerance — typically ±1 cm for knit activewear. Anything wider and your size S from one production run will not match size S from the next.
Want sizing developed for your specific market? Tell us your target region.
Product Overview
Produced in our own Yiwu factory for wholesale and private-label buyers who require consistent quality, sizing and colour across repeat production runs.
Fabric & Performance
- Nylon-spandex knit with 4-way stretch
- Moisture-wicking and quick-dry
- Breathable, opaque construction
- Shape retention after repeated washing
Design Details
- Athletic cut engineered for freedom of movement
- Flatlock seams reduce chafing
- Reinforced stitching at stress points
Recommended Use
Suited to yoga, pilates, gym training and everyday athleisure.
Sizing & Fit
Offered across a full size range with an athletic fit. Custom size grading available on request.
OEM & ODM Customization
- Custom logo and print placement
- Private label and branded packaging
- Custom colour matching and fabric weight
- Low MOQ with fast sampling
Production & Shipping
In-house cutting, sewing and quality control with export documentation prepared for destination markets.
Ready to Source
Send your quantity, colourway and target price for a bulk quote. Contact the factory to start.