The single biggest reason people return activewear is size. Not quality, not colour — size. And it's usually because they guessed instead of measuring.
Five minutes with a tape measure removes almost all of that risk.
What you need
A soft tape measure. If you don't have one, use a piece of string and measure it against a ruler afterwards.
Measure over bare skin or thin underwear, not over clothing. Keep the tape snug but not tight — you shouldn't be compressing anything.
The four measurements that matter
Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape level all the way around and parallel to the floor. Don't hold your breath.
This determines your size for tops, tees, tanks and sports bras.
Underbust
Measure directly under your bust, where a bra band sits. Keep it firm — this is one measurement where snug is correct.
This is the more important of the two for sports bras, because the band does the supporting work.
Waist
Measure at your natural waist — the narrowest point, usually just above the belly button. If you can't find it, bend sideways; the crease that forms is your natural waist.
This determines your size for leggings, shorts and pants with a high-rise waistband.
Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, roughly 20cm below your natural waist, keeping the tape level.
For bottoms, this is often the measurement that decides your size — especially in fitted styles.
How to read a size chart
Size charts give you a range for each size. Three rules make them much easier to use.
Size to your largest measurement. If your waist says medium and your hips say large, buy the large. You can't stretch fabric that's too small, but a slightly loose waistband on a high-rise style still works.
If you're between sizes, consider the fabric. A high-spandex blend has enough stretch that sizing down gives you compression. A cotton or waffle knit with little stretch should be sized up.
Check whether the garment is cut oversized. An oversized tee is already larger than its stated size. Buy your normal size — sizing up on an already-oversized cut is the most common fit mistake. We covered this in detail in how to wear an oversized tee.
Different pieces size differently
- Leggings and bike shorts should feel snug when you put them on. High-stretch fabric relaxes slightly with body heat and wear.
- Sports bras should feel firm at the band, on the loosest setting if adjustable — that gives you room to tighten as it stretches over time.
- Oversized tees and hoodies — take your normal size.
- Joggers and sweatpants — size by waist, and check the inseam if you're tall or petite.
Use a garment you already own
The most reliable method of all: find a piece in your wardrobe that fits exactly how you want, lay it flat, and measure it.
For leggings, measure the waistband flat from side to side and the inseam from crotch to hem. For tees, measure pit to pit across the chest and the length from the highest point of the shoulder to the hem.
Compare those numbers to the product measurements rather than to a general size chart. It's the closest thing to trying it on.
When in doubt
Email us at contact@wellvico.com with your measurements and which piece you're looking at, and we'll tell you which size to take. It's faster than a return, and we'd rather get it right the first time.