Hi-Vis Workwear Sizing Guide: How to Get the Right Fit for Site Work

11 Jul 2026

Buying workwear online means getting the sizing right before you order. Hi-vis clothing in Australia follows a mix of standard S–XXL sizing for tops and a separate trade sizing system for pants — if you're not familiar with it, it can catch you out.

Shirt and Jacket Sizing

Hi-vis shirts, polos, hoodies and jackets use standard Australian sizing: S, M, L, XL, XXL. As a general guide:

S — chest 86–90cm
M — chest 91–96cm
L — chest 97–102cm
XL — chest 103–108cm
XXL — chest 109–114cm

For site shirts, err on the side of your regular size or one up if you're between sizes — you want room to move, not a fitted silhouette. Long-sleeve shirts in particular need to be comfortable when your arms are raised.

Trade Pants Sizing (77R, 82R, 87R...)

Australian work pants use a sizing system based on waist measurement in centimetres, followed by a letter indicating leg length:

R — Regular length (suits most people up to around 182cm)
L — Long (for heights above 182cm)
S — Short (for heights below 170cm)

So 82R means an 82cm waist, regular leg length. The number roughly equals your waist in centimetres — use a tape measure around your natural waist (not your hip) for accuracy.

Common trade sizes and their approximate equivalents:

77R — waist ~77cm (approx. size 30" in standard sizing)
82R — waist ~82cm (approx. size 32")
87R — waist ~87cm (approx. size 34")
92R — waist ~92cm (approx. size 36")
97R — waist ~97cm (approx. size 38")

What Makes a Good Fit for Site Work

A well-fitting work garment should:

Allow full range of arm movement without pulling across the back
Sit at the natural waistline without riding up when you bend or crouch
Have cuffs that stay in place rather than sliding back when your arms are raised
Not be so baggy that loose fabric catches on equipment

Tips for Buying Online

If you're between sizes in a shirt, size up — you want comfort, not a fitted look
Measure your waist before ordering pants — don't guess from your jeans size
Check the returns policy before ordering — Okuch accepts returns on unworn items within 14 days

Browse our workwear range or contact us if you're unsure about sizing.