Icebreaker Size Guide
Icebreaker specialises in merino wool base layers, thermal clothing, and outdoor accessories designed for natural temperature regulation and comfort. The brand is engineered around layering systems, with three distinct fits—slim, regular, and relaxed—that work together seamlessly. Icebreaker garments are precision-fitted to ensure layers move and breathe as a single integrated system, making accurate sizing essential for optimal performance in all conditions.
How to Measure
- Chest: Measure horizontally around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape measure relaxed and parallel to the ground.
- Waist: Measure at the natural waistline (where trousers normally sit), ensuring the tape is snug but not tight.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hip and bottom, typically 20–23 centimetres below your waist.
- Arm length: Extend your arm to the side and measure from the centre of your back neck, across the shoulder and down to your wrist.
- Hand measurement (for gloves): Measure hand length from wrist to the tip of your longest finger, and hand circumference around the widest part of your palm (excluding the thumb).
- Head circumference (for hats): Measure around the largest part of your head, approximately one centimetre above your eyebrows and ears.
- Shoe size (for socks): Always use your standard shoe size as the primary reference, as icebreaker socks are sized to match footwear fit.
Women's Upper-Body Clothing
| Size (INT) | UK | EU | Chest (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hips (cm) | Arm Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 6 | 32 | 76–82 | 58–64 | 84–90 | 77–77.5 |
| S | 8 | 34 | 82–88 | 64–70 | 90–96 | 77.5–78 |
| M | 10 | 36 | 88–94 | 70–76 | 96–102 | 78–78.5 |
| L | 12 | 38 | 94–100 | 76–82 | 102–107 | 78.5–79 |
| XL | 14 | 40 | 100–107 | 82–89 | 107–113 | 79–79.5 |
Men's Upper-Body Clothing
| Size (INT) | UK | EU | FR | Chest (cm) | Neck Circumference (cm) | Arm Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 32 | 42 | 36 | 75–83 | 32–34 | 84–86 |
| S | 34 | 44/46 | 38/40 | 83–91 | 34–36 | 86.5–87 |
| M | 36 | 48/50 | 42/44 | 91–99 | 36–38 | 87–87.5 |
| L | 40 | 52 | 46 | 99–107 | 38–41 | 87.5–88 |
| XL | 42 | 54/56 | 48/50 | 107–115 | 41–43 | 88–89 |
| XXL | 44 | 58 | 52 | 115–123 | 43–46 | 89–90 |
| 3XL | 46 | 60 | 54 | 123–133 | 46–49 | 90–91 |
Women's Socks
| Size (INT) | UK Shoe Size | US Shoe Size | EU Shoe Size | Calf Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | 3–4.5 | 5.5–7 | 35–37 | 30–33 |
| M | 5–6.5 | 7.5–9 | 38–40 | 33–36 |
| L | 7–8.5 | 9.5–11 | 41–43 | 36–39 |
| One Size | 3.5–8 | 6–10.5 | 36–42 | 30–39 |
Men's Socks
| Size (INT) | UK Shoe Size | US Shoe Size | EU Shoe Size | Calf Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | 6–7.5 | 7–8.5 | 39–41.5 | 33–36 |
| M | 8–9.5 | 9–10.5 | 42–44 | 36–39 |
| L | 10–11.5 | 11–12.5 | 44.5–46.5 | 39–42 |
| XL | 12–13.5 | 13–14.5 | 47–49 | 42–45 |
| One Size | 8–12 | 9–13 | 42–47 | 33–45 |
Unisex Socks
| Size (INT) | UK Shoe Size | US Shoe Size | EU Shoe Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| S/M | 5–8.5 | 6–9 | 36–42 |
| L/XL | 9–15.5 | 9.5–16 | 42.5–49 |
Unisex Gloves
| Size (INT) | Hand Length (cm) | Hand Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 17 | 18.5 |
| S | 18 | 19.5 |
| M | 19 | 21 |
| L | 20 | 22.5 |
| XL | 21 | 23.5 |
Unisex Beanies & Hats
| Size (INT) | Head Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|
| S | 57–58 |
| M | 59–60 |
| L | 61+ |
Product-Specific Guidance
Base Layers & Thermal Tops
Icebreaker base layers are engineered for merino wool's natural moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties. Fit is critical: choose slim fit for tight layering, regular fit for versatile solo wear or layering, and relaxed fit for lightweight, loose-fitting options. Measure your chest accurately and consider arm length, as merino garments are designed to sit precisely at your wrist for optimal performance.
Merino Socks
Always size icebreaker socks using your standard shoe size as the primary reference. Calf circumference is also listed to ensure comfort without restricting circulation during extended outdoor activities. One-size and unisex options are available for those between standard sizes, offering flexibility across a wider range.
Gloves
Glove fit is determined by hand length and circumference. Measure both dimensions to ensure dexterity and warmth without bunching at the fingertips or excessive tightness around the palm. Merino wool gloves maintain insulation even when damp, making accurate sizing essential for consistent performance in variable conditions.
Beanies & Headwear
Head circumference is the primary sizing metric. Measure around the largest part of your head, approximately one centimetre above eyebrows and ears. Proper fit prevents slipping whilst maintaining comfort during active pursuits.
Trousers & Thermal Bottoms
Women's lower-body garments are sized by waist measurement with corresponding EU/US/FR sizes. Men's Alpha trousers follow standard sizing conventions. Icebreaker merino trousers are designed for layering underneath shell trousers or as standalone garments in milder conditions, so consider your intended use when selecting fit.
Sizing Tips
- Icebreaker garments are designed as an integrated layering system. Slim-fit base layers pair seamlessly with regular or relaxed-fit outer layers for optimal breathability and movement.
- Merino wool naturally shrinks slightly with washing; follow care instructions carefully and consider this when choosing between sizes if uncertain.
- Arm length is especially important for icebreaker: measure carefully as sleeves should terminate at your wrist for proper thermal coverage and performance.
- Socks sized by shoe size ensure compatibility with your footwear. If you fall between two sizes, test both in your typical hiking or running boots to find the best fit.
- Calf circumference for socks prevents circulation restriction during extended activity. If your calves are particularly muscular or larger, consider sizing up to the next size category.
- Merino wool is naturally antimicrobial, so icebreaker garments require less frequent washing than synthetic alternatives—proper care extends garment life and minimises shrinkage.
- Gloves and hats should fit snugly but comfortably; merino wool stretches slightly with wear, so avoid sizing up significantly if borderline between sizes.
- For online purchases, verify the retailer's returns policy; icebreaker clothing typically offers free returns through official channels, allowing you to exchange if sizing proves incorrect.