Ortlieb Size Guide
Ortlieb is a German manufacturer specialising in waterproof bags, backpacks, and outdoor gear designed for adventure cyclists, commuters, and travellers. The brand is renowned for its roll-top closure technology and weatherproof construction. Ortlieb sizing is primarily volume-based for bags and pack-based for apparel, with EU measurements as the standard. The brand's philosophy prioritises functional fit over fashion; garments are cut generously to accommodate layering and movement during active outdoor use. Ortlieb products are suitable for cyclists, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone requiring durable, weather-resistant gear in unpredictable conditions.
How to Measure
- Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the ground and snug but not tight. Wear a standard base layer or t-shirt during measurement.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline, typically where your trousers sit. Keep the tape relaxed to allow for a comfortable fit with one finger's width of space.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom. Stand with feet hip-width apart and the tape horizontal.
- Shoulder Width: For jackets and backpacks, measure from the tip of one shoulder to the tip of the other across your back.
- Inseam (Trousers): Measure from the inside of your thigh at the crotch down to the top of your shoe or ankle. Wear the shoes you'll pair with the trousers.
- Sleeve Length: Measure from the back of your neck, across the shoulder, down the outer arm to your wrist bone with your arm slightly bent.
Men's Clothing Sizes
| Size | UK | US | EU | Chest (inches) | Chest (cm) | Waist (inches) | Waist (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 32 | XS | 46 | 34–36 | 86–91 | 28–30 | 71–76 |
| S | 34 | S | 48 | 36–38 | 91–97 | 30–32 | 76–81 |
| M | 36 | M | 50 | 38–40 | 97–102 | 32–34 | 81–86 |
| L | 40 | L | 52 | 40–42 | 102–107 | 34–36 | 86–91 |
| XL | 42 | XL | 54 | 42–44 | 107–112 | 36–38 | 91–97 |
| XXL | 44 | XXL | 56 | 44–46 | 112–117 | 38–40 | 97–102 |
Women's Clothing Sizes
| Size | UK | US | EU | Bust (inches) | Bust (cm) | Waist (inches) | Waist (cm) | Hips (inches) | Hips (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 6 | 0 | 32 | 32–34 | 81–86 | 24–26 | 61–66 | 34–36 | 86–91 |
| S | 8 | 4 | 36 | 34–36 | 86–91 | 26–28 | 66–71 | 36–38 | 91–97 |
| M | 10 | 6 | 38 | 36–38 | 91–97 | 28–30 | 71–76 | 38–40 | 97–102 |
| L | 12 | 8 | 40 | 38–40 | 97–102 | 30–32 | 76–81 | 40–42 | 102–107 |
| XL | 14 | 10 | 42 | 40–42 | 102–107 | 32–34 | 81–86 | 42–44 | 107–112 |
| XXL | 16 | 12 | 44 | 42–44 | 107–112 | 34–36 | 86–91 | 44–46 | 112–117 |
Product-Specific Guidance
Waterproof Jackets & Rain Gear
Ortlieb rain jackets are designed with generous cuts to accommodate base layers and allow full range of motion on the bike or trail. The brand recommends choosing a size that permits two fingers of space at the chest and waist for comfort with layers. Sleeves are typically slightly longer than standard fashion cuts to prevent water running up the wrist when arms are extended. If you're between sizes, size up for improved layering capacity and comfort during active use.
Cycling Shorts & Tights
Cycling-specific apparel from Ortlieb is engineered for aerodynamic fit and chamois comfort. Measure your inseam carefully and refer to the brand's per-product charts, as cycling shorts and tights follow a more fitted silhouette than casual wear. Waist sizing should feel snug without restricting movement; the band should sit low on your hips without sliding. Women's cuts feature an anatomical design with a shorter rise for cycling-specific comfort.
Backpacks & Rucksacks
Ortlieb backpack capacity is measured in litres (e.g., 20L, 35L, 45L). To determine the correct pack size, consider your trip duration and gear requirements rather than body size. For a proper fit, measure your torso length (base of neck to base of spine) and match it to the pack's torso adjustment range. Shoulder straps should sit approximately 2 centimetres below the base of your neck, and hip belts should rest on your hip bones. All Ortlieb packs offer adjustable torso lengths to accommodate different frame sizes within one size category.
Bags & Pannier Sets
Volume-based sizing applies to Ortlieb bags and panniers. Bags are measured in litres regardless of gender or body size; capacity is the primary selection criterion. Pannier attachment hardware is universal, though handlebar bags and seat-pack systems may have specific frame-size requirements. Consult the product description for compatibility with your bicycle geometry before ordering.
Sizing Tips
- Layer-First Approach: Ortlieb apparel is cut generously to accommodate base layers and mid-layer insulation. Measure while wearing or holding your typical cold-weather base layer to ensure proper fit.
- Waterproof Seams Require Movement Space: Unlike conventional clothing, waterproof jackets and trousers need a small amount of extra room to allow seams to flex and maintain integrity. A snug fit may compromise waterproofing over time.
- Check Per-Product Specs: Ortlieb publishes detailed product-specific fit guides. Sizing can vary between jacket styles, shorts cuts, and pack designs, so always review the individual item's measurements before purchasing.
- Test the Shoulder Seam Placement: For jackets and packs, the shoulder seam should sit at the edge of your shoulder bone. A seam sitting too far forward or back will compromise fit and waterproofing.
- Inseam Matters for Cycling Trousers: Cycling tights and shorts should break just at the top of your shoe when standing; longer inseams may drag on the pedal or crankarm. Measure with cycling shoes on.
- Pannier Attachment Before Purchase: If buying panniers, verify that your bicycle's rack is compatible with Ortlieb's universal attachment system. Measurement charts specify maximum rack dimensions.
- Return Policy: Due to the specialised nature of outdoor apparel and the variation between product styles, familiarise yourself with Ortlieb's return policy for your region before ordering if you are uncertain about fit.