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Getting the right size matters more with cut-resistant base layers than regular ski gear.
These are protective equipment. The fabric needs to sit close to your skin to work properly, but not so tight it restricts movement or becomes uncomfortable over a full day skiing.
Quick Answer
Measure your waist, hip, and inseam using the instructions below. Match those numbers to our size charts. If you're between sizes, size up.
VIX base layers stretch a lot, so each size fits a range of body types. Most people find their normal base layer size works. But if you've ever been between sizes or struggled with fit in technical gear, read on.
Jump to:
How to Measure Yourself (waist, hip, inseam)
Size Charts (Men's, Women's, Youth)
Between Sizes? (which way to go)
How Base Layers Should Fit (snug but not restrictive)
Youth Sizing (one size, when to go adult)
90-Day Returns (your safety net)
How to Measure Yourself
You need three measurements: waist, hip, and inseam. Use a soft measuring tape, the kind tailors use. Don't have one? A piece of string and a ruler works fine.
Waist:
Stand naturally. Don't suck in. Measure around the narrowest part of your torso, typically 1–2 inches above your belly button. The tape should sit snug but not tight. You should be able to slide one finger underneath comfortably.
Hip:
Stand with your feet together. Measure around the fullest part of your hips and glutes. This is usually 7–9 inches below your waist. Keep the tape parallel to the floor.
Inseam:
Measure from your crotch to the floor, down the inside of your leg. Stand straight with your feet slightly apart. Run the tape from the top of your inner thigh straight down to the ground. Wear the shoes you'd normally ski in, or go barefoot and add an inch.
Write these three numbers down. You'll match them to the size charts below.
Size Charts
Men's
| Size | Waist (inches) | Hip (inches) | Inseam (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 28-30 | 33-35 | 28-30 |
| S | 30-32 | 35-37 | 30-31 |
| M | 32-34 | 37-39 | 31-32 |
| L | 34-36 | 39-41 | 32-33 |
| XL | 36-38 | 41-43 | 33-34 |
Women's
| Size | Waist (inches) | Hip (inches) | Inseam (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 24-26 | 33-35 | 28-30 |
| S | 26-28 | 35-37 | 29-31 |
| M | 28-30 | 37-39 | 30-32 |
| L | 30-32 | 39-41 | 31-33 |
| XL | 32-34 | 41-43 | 32-34 |
Youth
| Size | Waist (inches) | Inseam (inches) | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Y | 23-26 | 26-27.5 | Under 5'0" |
We currently offer one youth size. It fits most junior racers under 5'0".
Between Sizes?
Size up.
These go under your ski pants. Too tight and they'll restrict blood flow and get uncomfortable over a full day. Slightly loose and the fabric still stays in place and does its job.
There's a lot of overlap between sizes. Our founder has fit comfortably in everything from S to XL, with M and L feeling about the same. A slightly larger size doesn't compromise protection. A too-small size makes you less likely to wear the gear, which defeats the purpose.
If you prefer a tight compression feel (like high-end running tights), stick with the smaller size. If you prefer a looser, jogger-like fit, size up. Most people are fine with their normal size.
How Base Layers Should Fit
Think high-performance running tights or technical ski underwear, not compression gear.
What to expect:
- Snug, not tight. The fabric should sit close to your skin without pinching or binding.
- No bunching. When you bend your knees or squat, the fabric moves with you. It shouldn't gather behind your knees or around your hips.
- No restriction. You should be able to do a full deep knee bend, spread eagle, or lunge without feeling like the fabric is fighting you.
- Room for layers. These go under your ski pants. If your ski pants normally fit comfortably, VIX base layers won't change that.
Knee braces?
The fabric stretches a lot, and many skiers wear a brace under it, but brace shapes vary. Start with your measurements and normal size. If the brace changes your leg circumference much, contact us before ordering.
First wear:
The fabric feels firmer when new. Give it a few wears before you judge the fit.
If it still feels off after a few washes, you might've sized down too much. Contact us and we'll help.
Youth Sizing
We offer one youth size (Y) that fits most junior racers under 5'0" with a 23-26" waist and 26-27.5" inseam. The fabric stretches significantly, so it works across a range of builds within that window.
If your child is close to 5'0" or has a waist over 26", they'll likely be more comfortable in a Women's XS or Men's XS instead.
Racing requirements:
Every FIS Alpine event requires minimum 3-star cut-resistant pants, including Level 2+ FIS races and FIS Masters. Non-FIS youth requirements still vary by organizer and national federation, so confirm whether the event is FIS-sanctioned and then check the current domestic rules.
For more on youth racing requirements, and how to decide when protection isn't mandatory, see our parent's guide to cut-resistant ski gear.
90-Day Returns
We offer 90-day returns, no questions asked.
If the fit isn't right, send it back. We'd rather you get the correct size and wear the gear than keep something that doesn't fit.
Exchanges for sizing are free. Contact us at info@vixprotection.com and we'll walk you through it.
Still Not Sure?
Read reviews on the Men's Comfort Pro or Women's Comfort Pro product pages. Real customers talk about fit, comfort, and how the sizing worked for them.
Or just contact us. We'd rather spend five minutes helping you pick the right size than deal with an exchange later. Whether you buy VIX or not, we're happy to help.
For more on how cut-resistant base layers work and why protection matters, see our complete guide to cut-resistant ski base layers.
Product Information
The competition-rule summary was checked against FIS, Specifications for Alpine Competition Equipment 2026/27, §§3.5.3.3–3.5.3.4.