Find Your Perfect Fit: A Guide to Activewear Sizing, Stretch & Fabric
Finding the right fit for your activewear is just as important as choosing the right workout routine. Poor fitting gear can impact comfort, performance, and confidence, so it’s crucial to know how to choose your size correctly. O’Neills activewear is crafted for optimal performance whether you’re pushing limits in training or taking a well-deserved rest day.
To make things easier, we’ve put together a simple guide covering everything you need to know about our sizing and fabric.
Understanding Sizing Charts
✅ Measure yourself:
For your bust or chest, wrap the tape measure around the fullest part.
To find your waist measurement, locate the narrowest part of your torso, just above the belly button.
Measure your hips at the widest point, ensuring the tape stays level.
Lastly, place the tape at the top of your inner thigh and measure down to your ankle.
✅ Check the Size Guide: Not all activewear is created the same, brands have their own fit guides. The link provides a detailed size chart in relation to specific O’Neills products. https://www.oneills.com/size-guides
✅ Consider the Fit Type: Compression wear is designed for a tight, supportive fit that enhances performance. We suggest that you go for your regular size or size up in a relaxed style if you prefer a looser feel.
How Much Stretch is Too Much?
The stretch in a material is a key factor in ensuring freedom of movement and comfort in activewear.
The amount of stretch you need depends on your activity. Some fabrics contain 10-20% elastane (spandex/lycra) which offers great flexibility, ideal for exercises like Pilates, yoga and running.
The level of stretchability and comfort varies by fabric choice. Cotton provides low elasticity, making it less stretchable, while nylon offers moderate flexibility. Spandex, on the other hand, delivers the highest level of stretch, ensuring maximum movement and comfort.
When investing in activewear, ensuring the fabric provides the right amount of stretch and durability is essential for both performance and comfort. Testing the stretchability before purchasing can help you determine whether the material will support your activities.
✅ Do the Feel Test - Stretch the fabric and get a feel for it. High-quality stretch should snap back to its original shape without sagging.
✅ Check Durability - Cheap fabrics lose elasticity over time. High-quality, stretchy fabric should move with your body and maintain its shape, even after repeated wear and washes.
Choosing the Right Fabric
Activewear fabrics play a crucial role in maximising your performance during a workout. Below is a list of some key fabric features to look for when choosing activewear.
✅ Moisture-Wicking
Moisture-wicking fabrics help pull sweat away from the body to keep you dry during workouts. The O'Neills Venom T-Shirt is designed with advanced sweat-wicking technology, making it ideal for high-intensity training and outdoor sports.
✅ Breathability
Breathability allows airflow to prevent overheating, ensuring you stay cool. The O'Neills Surge Polo Shirt is crafted with lightweight, ventilated fabric, making it a great choice for golf, tennis, or casual wear on warm days.
✅ Stretch & Recovery
Stretch and recovery ensure that your activewear moves with you and maintains its shape. The O'Neills Riley Full-Length Leggings, made from a 4-way stretch fabric, provide unrestricted movement and support, making them perfect for yoga, running, or strength training.
✅ UV Protection
UV protection is another must-have, shielding your skin from harmful sun exposure during outdoor activities is so important. The O'Neills Women's Dynamo T-Shirt is designed with built-in UV protection, making it an excellent choice for long summer runs, hikes or beach workouts.
Choosing the Best Fit for Your Body Type
Different body shapes can benefit from specific activewear styles that enhance performance and provide a flattering fit. Here’s a guide to help you select the best O’Neills gear for your shape:
✔ Pear Shape
Balance proportions by choosing loose tops with fitted bottoms. The The O'Neills Riley Full-Length Leggings offer a streamlined silhouette while providing flexibility and support for any workout. Pair them with the The O'Neills Women's Recharge Boxy T-Shirt, a breathable, lightweight option designed to keep you cool and comfortable.
✔ Apple Shape
Relaxed, darker fits provide a comfortable and streamlined look. The O'Neills Women's Kendra Brushed Half Zip in Black is a great choice, offering a flexible fit that allows unrestricted movement. Complete the look with the The O'Neills Women's Piper Yoga Pants, which offer a loose fit without compromising style.
✔ Rectangle Shape
Create definition and structure with activewear that enhances your natural shape. The O'Neills Men's Venture Pima Cotton Polo delivers a sharp, polished appearance, making it an ideal pick for both casual and active days. Pair it with the O'Neills Men's Horizon Woven Sweatpants for a chilled outfit.
✔ Hourglass Shape
Fitted styles that highlight the waist and enhance curves are ideal. The O'Neills Men's Aero Skinny Sweatpants provide a tapered fit for a streamlined silhouette while offering all-day comfort. Pair them with the O'Neills Men's Ignite Half Zip Top for a sleek outfit, or, opt for the O'Neills Men's Pima Cotton T-Shirt for a lightweight option during warmer days.
When it comes to finding the perfect activewear fit, the key is understanding your preferences. Always try before you buy and, if in doubt, check the return policies. O’Neills makes exchanges and returns easy within 28 days (*terms and conditions apply) – refer to our return policy here
The perfect fit enhances performance, comfort, and confidence. Whether it's high-stretch training gear, breathable outdoor fabrics, or stylish loungewear, O’Neills has you covered!