How do I choose the right size for my workwear?
How do I choose the right size for my workwear?
Check the brand-specific size chart on each product page, then order 2-3 sizes to try at home. Return what doesn't fit within 30 days (free return shipping). This is how most of our customers find their perfect fit.
Why we recommend ordering multiple sizes
The honest reason: Workwear sizing isn't standardized across brands yet. Different European brands use different sizing systems—some follow traditional country standards (German, Italian, Finnish), others use EN 13402 (the EU standard), and many use their own proprietary systems.
What we're doing about it: We're working with brands to transition to EN 13402 and improving our size charts with clearer measurements. But for now, the fastest way to get the right fit is to order a few sizes.
Why this works:
- Free return shipping when items pass inspection (unused, tags attached)
- 30-day return window (plenty of time)
- Try everything at home on clean floors
- Keep what fits, return the rest
Step-by-step: Finding your size
Step 1: Check the size chart on the product page
Every product has a brand-specific size chart. Look for:
- Chest/bust measurements (jackets, shirts)
- Waist measurements (pants, overalls)
- Foot length in cm (safety boots, shoes)
- Hand circumference (gloves)
Measure yourself before checking the chart. Don't guess—grab a measuring tape.
Read more: How do I measure myself for the best fit?
Step 2: Check fit feedback (if available)
Some products have feedback from other buyers:
- "Runs small—order one size up"
- "True to size"
- "Generous fit—size down for slim fit"
Not every product has feedback yet. We're collecting this data as more customers order and review.
Step 3: Order 2-3 sizes
Strategy that works:
- Order your usual size
- Order one size up
- Order one size down (if you're between sizes)
Example: Usually wear EU 42 pants? Order 40, 42, and 44.
Shipping cost: Orders over €80 per brand get free shipping. If you're ordering from one brand, hitting €80 is easy with multiple sizes.
Step 4: Try at home
Critical: Try items at HOME only—walk on clean floors indoors. Do NOT wear outdoors or to work, even once.
Why this matters: Items worn outdoors or at work pick up dirt and wear, which makes them non-returnable. Keep tags attached and packaging intact.
Read more: What condition must returned items be in?
Step 5: Return what doesn't fit
- Go to returns.droppe.com
- Select items to return
- Print free return label
- Ship within 30 days
Refund: 7-10 business days after return passes inspection.
Read more: How do I return a product?
Size chart tips by product type
Safety boots and shoes
Most important measurement: Foot length in centimeters.
How to measure:
- Stand on paper with heel against wall
- Mark longest toe
- Measure from wall to mark
- Add 0.5-1 cm for comfort
Sizing strategy: Order your exact measurement AND one size up. Boot fit varies—some brands run narrow, others wide.
Jackets and coats
Key measurements: Chest circumference and sleeve length.
Fit matters: Do you wear layers underneath? Thermal jackets, fleece, shirts—these add bulk. Size up if you need room for layering.
Try with layers: Put on what you'd wear underneath (at home), then try the jacket.
Pants and overalls
Key measurements: Waist and inseam (leg length).
Watch for: European brands often use waist measurement in centimeters, not inches. A "90" is 90 cm waist, not a US size.
Comfort check: Bend, squat, sit—workwear needs to move with you. If it's tight while standing, it won't work when you're actually working.
Gloves
Key measurement: Hand circumference at knuckles (excluding thumb).
Snug vs loose: Safety gloves should fit snug for dexterity. Insulated winter gloves can be slightly looser.
Try with tools: If possible, test grip at home—hold a tool, make a fist. Gloves that restrict movement won't work for actual tasks.
What if I'm still unsure?
Contact us BEFORE ordering. We can help:
- Interpret size charts
- Recommend sizing based on your measurements
- Share feedback from similar orders
- Suggest brands that run true to size
Contact info:
- Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Belgium, Italy: frage@droppe.com / +49 15735984668
- Finland: kysy@droppe.fi / +358 45 4909908
- Sweden: fraga@droppe.com / +46 76 692 47 11
- General orders: orders@droppe.com
Read more: Can I contact support for sizing help?
Different sizes for different brands?
Yes, totally normal. You might be a 42 in one brand and a 44 in another.
Why: Different brands use different sizing standards. German brands often run larger than Italian brands. Scandinavian brands might fit differently than Central European ones.
Solution: Always check the specific brand's size chart. Don't assume your size is the same across all products.
Read more: Why do sizes vary between brands?
Team orders: Coordinating sizes
Ordering for a whole team? Different process.
Recommended approach:
- Order sample sizes for 2-3 team members
- Confirm fit before ordering full team quantities
- Collect measurements from team members (we can help)
Read more: How do I coordinate sizes for a team order?
Questions?
Need help choosing? Contact us with your measurements and the product link. We'll recommend sizes based on the brand's chart and fit feedback.
Related articles:
- What if I'm between sizes?
- How do I measure myself for the best fit?
- Where can I find size charts?
- What if the size isn't right?
Updated on: 03/11/2025
Thank you!