If you need a bit of help understanding what size NATO clothing you need, our conversion guide will help you out.
We’ve created a really simple NATO size chart that converts NATO sizes into typical UK clothing sizes so you can make sure you’re choosing the correct item.
How NATO & British Army Sizing Works
NATO sizes are made up of 6-digit numbers, which represent metric cm sizing for different parts of the body.
This is how many army products are sized in Europe, so it’s worth being aware of the conversions so you choose the correct size you need.
They are structured as below:
NATO/British Army Jackets & Shirt Sizes
With shirts and jackets, NATO sizes will be displayed as ‘xxx/yy’ where ‘xxx’ is your full height in cms (not the length of the garment) and ‘yy’ is your chest size in cms.
‘xxx’ = Full height in cms
‘yy’ = Chest size in cms
NATO / British Army Trouser Sizes
Trousers are sized as ‘xx/yy/zz’ where ‘xx’ is your waist size in cms, ‘yy’ is inner leg size in cms and ‘zz’ is seat size in cms.
‘xx’ = Waist size in cms
‘yy’ = Inner leg size in cms
‘zz’ = Seat size in cms
British Army Uniform: An Overview
The British Army uniform is made up of sixteen categories. The most common of these categories is the Number 8 Combat Uniform, made up of a multi-terrain pattern smock, jacket and trousers.
Before 2011, there were additional designs suited for desert and more tropical uses; however, these have since been replaced with the one Combat Uniform – designed to blend in with a range of environments.
With hats, there are different coloured berets for the different regiments. These then have a regiment or corps badge attached when wearing the number 8 Combat Uniform.
NATO & British Army Size Chart: Clothing, Footwear & Accessories
The easiest way to work out your NATO clothing size is to use a conversion chart, just like ours above. Once you have your regular UK sizing measurements in inches, follow along the chart to find your NATO size.
Can You Wear NATO Clothing for Airsoft?
Yes, you can wear NATO and British Army clothing for airsoft. Just make sure you’re choosing the correct clothing sizes so your kit fits properly.
How Do NATO Sizes Work?
Understanding how NATO sizes are displayed will make it easier to understand which size you need. NATO shirts and jackets are displayed as ‘xxx/yy’ – ‘xxx’ represents your full height in cms, and ‘yy’ represents your chest size in cms. NATO trousers are displayed as ‘xx/yy/zz’ – ‘xx’ represents your waist size in cms, ‘yy’ represents your inner leg size in cms and ‘zz’ represents your seat size in cms.
