The Ultimate Red Kap Sizing Guide
Finding the right fit in industrial workwear is different than buying casual clothing. Red Kap garments are engineered for movement and durability, which means they often feature a more generous cut than your standard retail apparel.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to measure yourself for the three most common Red Kap categories: Shirts, Pants, and Coveralls.
1. How to Measure for Red Kap Work Shirts
Red Kap shirts are designed with "Action Back" pleats and roomier shoulders to allow for overhead reaching and heavy labor.
The Chest Measurement
Wrap a soft measuring tape under your arms, across the fullest part of your chest, and around your shoulder blades. Keep the tape level and firm but not tight.
The Neck Measurement
Measure around the base of your neck where a collared shirt would sit. Add a half-inch to this measurement for comfort if you plan on buttoning the top button frequently.
2. Measuring for Red Kap Work Pants
Industrial work pants should sit at your natural waist, not on your hips like modern jeans.
- Waist: Measure around your waistline, just above your hip bones, where you prefer to wear your pants.
- Inseam: Measure from the base of the crotch seam down to the top of your work boot. If you prefer a "stack" or more coverage, add 1 inch to this measurement.
3. The "Irregular" Advantage: Fit vs. Finish
Many shoppers ask if Red Kap Irregulars fit differently than standard retail lines.
[!NOTE] The answer is no. Red Kap Irregulars follow the exact same size patterns and templates as regular stock. Any "irregularity" is purely cosmetic (like a thread variance or shade difference) and never affects the actual dimensions or "specs" of the garment.
Summary Checklist for a Professional Fit
- Use a soft measuring tape (not a metal one).
- Measure over the clothes you intend to wear underneath.
- Round up to the nearest whole inch if you fall between sizes.
- When in doubt, go one size up for outerwear (like jackets or coveralls) to allow for layering.
Need more help? Contact our support team for a personalized fit consultation!
Written By
Liliana
Industrial Specialist