frLa Sportiva Clothing Size Guide
Use the official La Sportiva size charts and our advice to choose the right size for jackets, fleeces, insulated jackets, tops, trousers, shorts and tights.
How do La Sportiva clothes fit?
La Sportiva clothing is designed for mountain activities, trail running, climbing, ski touring and mountaineering. The fit depends on the model, its cut and its intended use.
Some technical garments have a relatively close fit to reduce excess fabric and follow body movement. Other garments, particularly protective shells and certain insulated jackets, provide more room for layering.
Your usual clothing size provides an initial reference, but comparing your body measurements with the official chart is more reliable. For tops and jackets, use your chest measurement first. For trousers, shorts and tights, focus on waist, hip and inside-leg measurements.
European and international size conversions
La Sportiva uses different European and international indications. In the men's chart, EU XS corresponds to size 44 and US XXS. In the women's chart, La Sportiva provides two European references, such as 38 / 32.
Check the international size displayed on the product page first, then compare your measurements with the corresponding chart.
How should you take your measurements?
Use a flexible tape measure and take each measurement directly against the body without pulling the tape tight. Ideally, wear thin clothing.
Total height
Stand barefoot with your back straight and your heels on the floor. Measure from the top of your head to the ground.
Shoulder width
Measure horizontally across the back, between the outer ends of both shoulders. This measurement helps assess the fit of jackets, fleeces and technical tops.
Chest
Place the tape around the fullest part of your chest and under your arms. Keep it horizontal and breathe normally.
Waist
Measure around the narrowest part of your torso, generally above the navel. Do not hold in your stomach or tighten the tape.
Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, keeping the tape parallel to the floor.
Inside leg
Measure from the crotch down to the floor along the inside of your leg. This measurement is particularly useful when selecting trousers or tights.
La Sportiva men's clothing size chart
All body measurements in the chart are expressed in centimetres.
On mobile, swipe the table horizontally to view all columns.
| Size | XS / 44 | S / 46 | M / 48 | L / 50 | XL / 52 | XXL / 54 | XXXL / 56 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US conversion | XXS | XS | S | M | L | XL | XXL |
| Total height | 165 – 174 | 169 – 178 | 173 – 182 | 177 – 186 | 181 – 190 | 185 – 194 | 189 – 194 |
| Shoulder width | 40 – 42 | 42 – 44 | 44 – 46 | 46 – 48 | 48 – 50 | 50 – 52 | 52 – 54 |
| Chest | 89 – 93 | 93 – 97 | 97 – 101 | 101 – 105 | 105 – 110 | 110 – 115 | 115 – 120 |
| Waist | 73 – 77 | 77 – 81 | 81 – 85 | 85 – 89 | 89 – 94 | 94 – 99 | 99 – 104 |
| Hips | 90 – 94 | 94 – 98 | 98 – 102 | 102 – 106 | 106 – 111 | 111 – 116 | 116 – 121 |
| Inside leg | 79 – 83 | 81 – 85 | 83 – 87 | 85 – 89 | 87 – 91 | 89 – 93 | 91 – 95 |
La Sportiva women's clothing size chart
All body measurements in the chart are expressed in centimetres. The two European numbers represent the Italian and international European indications used by La Sportiva.
On mobile, swipe the table horizontally to view all columns.
| European size | 38 / 32 | 40 / 34 | 42 / 36 | 44 / 38 | 46 / 40 | 48 / 42 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| International size | XXS | XS | S | M | L | XL |
| Total height | 155 – 164 | 159 – 168 | 163 – 172 | 167 – 176 | 171 – 180 | 175 – 184 |
| Shoulder width | 36 – 37 | 37 – 38 | 38 – 39 | 39 – 40 | 40 – 41 | 41 – 42 |
| Chest | 80 – 84 | 84 – 88 | 88 – 92 | 92 – 96 | 96 – 100 | 100 – 105 |
| Waist | 60 – 64 | 64 – 68 | 68 – 72 | 72 – 76 | 76 – 80 | 80 – 85 |
| Hips | 86 – 90 | 90 – 94 | 94 – 98 | 98 – 102 | 102 – 106 | 106 – 111 |
| Inside leg | 74 – 79 | 76 – 81 | 78 – 83 | 80 – 85 | 82 – 87 | 84 – 89 |
Which measurement should you use?
Your measurements may not all correspond to the same size. Give priority to the measurement associated with the garment you are selecting.
Jackets, insulated jackets and fleeces
Chest and shoulder width are the main measurements. Check your total height as well if you require particularly long or short sleeves.
T-shirts, tank tops and base layers
Use your chest measurement first. Your waist measurement may also be useful for particularly close-fitting tops.
Trousers, shorts and tights
Compare your waist and hip measurements first. For full-length trousers, also check your inside-leg measurement.
When two measurements correspond to different sizes, generally choose the size associated with the larger part of your body. A slightly relaxed garment is usually more functional than one that compresses the body or restricts movement.
Choosing a size according to the type of garment
Base layers
A base layer is generally designed to remain relatively close to the body to follow your movements and help manage moisture. It should nevertheless allow you to breathe deeply and raise your arms without compression.
T-shirts and tank tops
For trail running and high-intensity activities, choose a size that provides freedom of movement without excessive fabric. For climbing or everyday wear, the choice may also depend on your preferred style.
Fleeces and midlayers
A fleece should fit over a base layer while remaining close enough to fit comfortably under a jacket. Check that the shoulders do not pull when you extend your arms forwards.
Insulated jackets
The appropriate fit depends on how the jacket will be worn. A midlayer can be relatively close-fitting, whereas an insulated outer layer must provide enough room for the garments worn underneath.
Waterproof and protective jackets
An outer shell must accommodate the layers intended for your activity. Try it with the same clothing you plan to wear for hiking, ski touring or mountaineering.
A jacket that is too small may compress insulation, ride up when you raise your arms and restrict movement. A jacket that is too large may create excess fabric and reduce precision.
Hiking and mountaineering trousers
Trousers should remain securely positioned at the waist without compressing your stomach. Check that you can lift your knee, squat and take a large step without excessive tension around the crotch or thighs.
Hiking, climbing and trail running shorts
Waist and hip measurements are the main criteria. Check that the shorts do not ride up excessively or compress your thighs while running or climbing.
Trail running tights and trousers
Tights should remain close to the body without restricting circulation or slipping during exercise. The waistband should remain stable and comfortable.
How should you choose a size for layering?
You do not need to select a larger size for every garment automatically. The different layers are generally designed to work together.
Choose a close-fitting base layer, a comfortable midlayer and an outer shell that accommodates the complete layering system. Consider the larger size if your measurements are near the top of the range, if you wear bulky insulation or if you feel tension around the shoulders and chest.
How can you tell whether the size is correct?
For a top or jacket, fasten the garment fully, raise your arms, cross them in front of your chest and rotate your upper body. The shoulders should not pull and the hem should not ride up excessively.
For trousers or shorts, walk, raise your knees and squat. The waistband should remain in place without excessive compression and the fabric should not restrict your movement.
What should you do if you are between two sizes?
Choose the smaller size if your measurements are near the lower end of the larger size, you prefer a close fit and the garment still provides full freedom of movement.
Choose the larger size if your measurements are near the top of the range, you have broad shoulders, you intend to layer several garments or the fabric pulls when you move.
For trousers, use the more restrictive measurement between your waist and hips. The larger size may be preferable if the waist fits but the garment is too close around your hips or thighs.
Choosing your size according to your activity
Trail running
Look for a fit that remains stable while running without restricting breathing or movement. Tops and tights may be close-fitting, while a jacket must accommodate the garment worn underneath.
Climbing
Freedom of movement around the shoulders, hips and knees is essential. Test the garment by raising your arms above your head and performing deep leg movements.
Hiking and trekking
Prioritise long-lasting comfort and test the garment with your intended backpack. Seams, pockets and waistbands should not create pressure beneath shoulder straps or the hip belt.
Ski touring
Account for your layering system and the range of movement required during ascents. Trousers must allow large steps and remain compatible with ski boots.
Mountaineering
Test the clothing with your intended layers, harness and footwear. A jacket should remain long enough when your arms are raised, while trousers should not restrict movement beneath a harness.
Other La Sportiva accessories
How should you choose La Sportiva sock sizes?
Socks are generally selected according to shoe size. Use the size range shown on the individual product page and choose the range containing your usual shoe size.
When you are at the boundary between two ranges, the smaller size usually provides a closer fit, whereas the larger size provides more room. Socks should not crease inside the shoe or compress your toes.
How should you choose a La Sportiva hat or headband?
Some accessories are available in one size, while others come in several sizes. When a measurement is provided, measure horizontally around your head, approximately one centimetre above your eyebrows and ears.
The hat or headband should remain securely in place without causing excessive pressure. Also check its compatibility with a helmet when it will be worn for climbing, skiing or mountaineering.
Frequently asked questions about La Sportiva sizing
Do La Sportiva clothes run small?
The fit depends on the model's cut and intended use. Some technical garments are designed to remain close to the body, whereas outer shells provide more room. Compare your measurements with the chart rather than automatically choosing a larger size.
What is a men's La Sportiva size M?
In the men's chart, EU M corresponds to size 48. La Sportiva also lists a US S conversion. Always check the sizing system displayed on the product page.
What is a women's La Sportiva size M?
In the women's chart, M corresponds to the European indications 44 / 38. These numbers reflect the different European references used by the brand.
Why are there two European numbers in the women's chart?
La Sportiva displays an Italian size and an international European size. Italian size 44 corresponds, for example, to European size 38 and international size M.
Should I choose a larger La Sportiva size?
Not automatically. Choose the larger size if your measurements are near the top of the range, if you intend to wear thick layers or if your usual size restricts movement.
Which measurement should I use for a jacket?
Use your chest and shoulder measurements first. Total height also helps assess the expected body and sleeve length.
Which measurements should I use for trousers?
Compare your waist, hip and inside-leg measurements. When waist and hips correspond to different sizes, generally select the larger measurement.
How should I choose a shell worn over an insulated jacket?
Compare your measurements with the chart and test the complete system with your intended insulation. The shell should fasten without compressing the insulation and allow you to raise your arms freely.
Should a base layer fit very tightly?
It should remain close to the body without restricting breathing, compressing the shoulders or limiting movement.
How should I choose between two trouser sizes?
Choose the size that allows you to move freely without the waistband slipping. If the waist fits but the hips or thighs are too tight, choose the larger size.
Are La Sportiva women's clothes simply smaller versions?
No. Women's garments use a specific measurement chart and may have a different shape around the chest, waist, hips and shoulders.
How can I check the sleeve length?
The sleeves should cover your wrists with your arms relaxed and retain sufficient length when your arms are extended. They should not excessively cover your hands.
How should I test climbing trousers?
Squat, raise your knees and take large steps. Also check that the waistband remains comfortable beneath a climbing harness.
How should I choose a size for ski touring?
Account for the layers worn underneath, the range of movement required during ascents and the compatibility of the trouser cuffs with ski boots.
Is the inside-leg measurement the actual trouser length?
No. It is a body measurement taken from the crotch to the floor. The finished garment length may vary according to its cut and intended use.
Do La Sportiva socks use shoe sizes?
Socks use shoe-size ranges. Choose the range containing your shoe size and check that the fabric remains smooth without creasing or compressing your foot.
How should I measure my head circumference?
Place the tape horizontally around your head, approximately one centimetre above your eyebrows and ears. Do not pull the tape tight.
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