Finding the right outdoor gear for your body type (helmets, gloves, harnesses)
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1. Climbing/mountaineering helmet size guide
A poorly fitted helmet provides poor protection and quickly becomes uncomfortable. The key is your head circumference, measured above your eyebrows and ears.
How to choose?
- S/M: for a head circumference of 48 to 56 cm.
- M/L: for a head circumference of 55 to 61 cm.
- XL (rarer): over 61 cm.
Tips
- Always try on the helmet with a hat or balaclava if you plan to use it in winter.
- Adjust it: it should be stable even with the chin strap open.
- Opt for a model with an adjustable dial if you are between two sizes.
2. Technical glove size guide (skiing, mountaineering, climbing)
A glove that is too small restricts blood circulation (and thus thermal comfort). If it's too big, it loses precision and insulation.
How to measure?
- Hand circumference: measure the circumference of your hand (at the knuckles, excluding the thumb).
- Hand length: distance from wrist to the tip of the middle finger.
Conversion table
| Glove size | Hand circumference (cm) | Hand length (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 15 – 17 | 16 – 17.5 |
| S | 17 – 19 | 17.5 – 19 |
| M | 19 – 21 | 19 – 20.5 |
| L | 21 – 23 | 20.5 – 22 |
| XL | 23 – 25 | 22 – 23.5 |
| XXL | > 25 | > 23.5 |
👉 Always try on your gloves: some models run small or large depending on the brand.
3. Climbing harness size guide
A harness must fit perfectly around the waist and thighs to ensure safety and comfort.
How to choose?
- Waist circumference: measure above the hips.
- Thigh circumference: measure at the widest point.
Example of correspondence (depending on brand)
| Harness size | Waist circumference (cm) | Thigh circumference (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 60 – 70 | 45 – 55 |
| S | 68 – 78 | 48 – 58 |
| M | 75 – 85 | 53 – 63 |
| L | 82 – 92 | 58 – 68 |
| XL | 90 – 100 | 63 – 73 |
👉 Opt for an adjustable harness if you vary your activities (winter/summer).
Whether for a backpack, helmet, gloves, harness, or wetsuit, choosing the right size always depends on precise measurements of your body shape. A good fit guarantees comfort, safety, and performance in all your outdoor activities.
To find all the tips for choosing the right size for your equipment, visit our ultimate guide here
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