Male vs Female Fits on Uniforms

Many industries wear uniforms to keep workers clean and safe while promoting a consistent look among employees. Without considering, many business leaders take one approach that fits all. They don’t consider uniforms for their female team members. A 2021 poll revealed that 31% of manufacturers struggle with uniform measurement accuracy.

Unisex uniforms may seem like a simple and modern approach. However, wearing ill-fitting uniforms can cause dangers and discomfort to the wearer.

But are men’s and women’s uniforms really that different?  Here are some of the largest differences in men’s and women’s fits on uniforms.

Men’s Versus Women’s : Pants

Men’s pants often feature a slim fit throughout the pant leg to allow for an opening that fits over most work boots. Large pockets allow for wear to store commonly used items such as writing utensils, work materials, and electronic devices.
Women’s pants often feature additional fabric space to fit the curvature of the hips and will slightly tamper in at the waist to help them fit more naturally. Ensure your pants are flexible for constant movement and offer plenty of pocket space.

Red Kap utility pants with Mimixtm are designed to offer both men and women the ultimate flexibility in their workplace. Flex panels are strategically placed on improving mobility and increasing comfort by 25%. These pants hold up with all the bending, squatting, and stretching your work requires. The Touchtex Technology as provides breathable comfort, lasting colors, and stain resistant. 

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Men’s Versus Women’s : Sleeves

The location of the arm cut on the sleeve varies depending on the wearer. Since men tend to have broader shoulders than women, their sleeves are cut higher on the sides. Men’s sleeves often have a looser fit and a larger range of motion than women’s.
Women’s sleeves also tend to be tighter on the arms and vary in length from short, mid-length, or long. MasterClass pulled together a comprehensive guide to the different types of sleeves that can be found in workwear fashion.

For individuals with a longer torso and arms, a uniform with a long fit will offer 2” additional inches.

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Men’s Versus Women’s : Chest

Men’s shirts are less form-fitting than women’s, however, they should lay flat on their backs and the seam over the shoulder should not slide down on the arms.
Women’s clothing has extra capacity in the chest area to provide a comfortable fit for all shapes and sizes.
Getting the correct size can be difficult, so here are some tips to help with getting the correct measurement:

Make sure you’re not breathing in or holding your breath. This may cause your measurement to be too small and your workwear to be too tight to work comfortably. Likewise, make sure you aren’t expanding your chest. This could cause your workwear to be too large and loose. 

Ensure the tape measure is loose and level across your bust. Once you are able to fit one finger under the tape, round up to the nearest whole number for an accurate measurement.

Your chest should “fill out” without pulling on the buttons while your arms are down when testing apparel options. You’ll have a full range of motion and the shirt should feel snug without being too tight.

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Men’s Versus Women’s : Buttons

Men – Buttons are often placed on the right side with the button-holes on the left side, making it easier to pull the hole over the button. Men’s attire often features a full button-down top or three button top, represented by the traditional polo shirt.
Women – Most buttons on women’s apparel are placed on the left side and the button-holes on the right. Necklines usually stops at ¼ inch in length or feature a V-shape, removing the need for buttons at the top.

The fun history behind why buttons are on their respective sides can relate back to social class and the war of the early Renaissance Era

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Nonetheless, high-quality, properly fitting uniforms are essential for any workplace. Poor fitting uniforms negatively affect productivity and bring unnecessary dangers into the workplace. Wearers can be impacted by:

• Overheating from wearing the wrong material
• Restricted movement or discomfort (constantly needing to readjust sleeves or pants)
• Variable of snagging on dangerous machinery

Overall, professional and properly fitted uniforms improve your business. Wildman’s uniform experts advise what uniforms fit your performance needs, compliance requirements, and desired style. When deciding on proper sizing, employees will have the opportunity to try on different sizes of their uniform choice so they’re guaranteed a uniform that fits.

Ranging from corporate branded apparel and restaurant uniforms to unique Oil Blok shirts and hi-visibility uniforms, Wildman helps your team look and feel great.