Does the Brand adidas Run Big or Small on Clothes Sizing?

Adidas is one of the most iconic sportswear brands in the world, trusted by athletes, streetwear fans, and fashion-conscious consumers alike. But when it comes to adidas clothing sizing—does it run big, small, or true to size?

With so many product lines—Originals, Performance, Y-3, Stella McCartney, and collaborations—it can be hard to know whether your regular size will fit across the board. This guide breaks down how adidas fits, what customers say, and how to guarantee the right size first time.

Let’s clear up the sizing confusion for good.

How adidas Clothing Generally Fits

Across most categories, adidas clothing fits true to size. But like many global brands, that statement comes with caveats.

adidas Performance (activewear, gymwear): Typically runs true to size, especially tops. However, leggings and compression garments can feel snug due to performance stretch materials.
adidas Originals (casual/streetwear): Often features a looser, boxier cut, especially in items like sweatshirts, T-shirts, and tracksuits. Some buyers size down for a more fitted silhouette.
Collaborations (e.g. adidas x Yeezy, Ivy Park): Sizing can be inconsistent. Some pieces are oversized by design, while others fit small.
adidas by Stella McCartney: Often runs small, particularly in leggings and sports bras.

So—while adidas generally leans true to size, it heavily depends on the line and intended fit.

What Real Customers Say About adidas Sizing

At Tellar.co.uk, we analyse thousands of shopper reviews and returns data across over 1,500+ brands—including adidas. Here's what the data (and customer feedback) shows:

Men’s activewear tops (e.g. tech tees, climacool) – True to size
Men’s joggers and tracksuit bottoms – Can run large at the waist, especially in Originals
Women’s leggings and bras – Often run small, tight fit, especially compression ranges
Women’s oversized tees & sweatshirts – Designed to be baggy; many size down
Unisex collabs (e.g. adidas x Pharrell) – Fit varies; check product details carefully

Our Tellar users often comment that sizing down in adidas Originals gives a sharper look, while Performance wear fits as expected if you're familiar with UK sportswear sizes.

adidas Sizing Conversion: UK, EU, US

As a German-founded brand, adidas sizes are standardised in EU sizing globally—but here’s a quick size conversion guide for clarity:

UK Size	EU Size	US Men	US Women
XS	42–44	30–32	0–2
S	46	34	4–6
M	48–50	36–38	8–10
L	52–54	40–42	12–14
XL	56	44	16
XXL	58–60	46–48	18–20

Always double-check the item description—especially for collaboration pieces, as these may follow different patterns or have bespoke sizing charts.

Why adidas Sizes Can Feel Different

Global sportswear brands like adidas design for a wide customer base. This means sizing may differ depending on:

Region: EU, UK, and US fits sometimes vary slightly in cut, especially in women’s styles.
Gendered cuts: Unisex styles like tracksuits or windbreakers can feel oversized on petite frames.
Fabric choice: Compression or Dri-FIT-like synthetics often fit tighter than cotton basics.
Design intent: Oversized silhouettes in adidas Originals or collabs are intentional—but not always clearly flagged.

Adidas does provide size guides, but they’re generic. For example, “Size M fits chest 38–40 inches” can still vary depending on the item’s design.

How to Find Your Perfect adidas Size: Instantly

Tellar.co.uk solves sizing confusion in seconds

Tired of guessing your adidas size—or returning clothes that don’t fit? Tellar.co.uk is the UK’s leading free sizing tool that matches your body measurements to over 1,500 brands, including adidas.

All you do is:

Create your profile here
Enter your measurements once (chest, waist, hips)
Instantly get your size across adidas and other brands
Change between UK, EU or US sizing in a click

✔️ No more guessing

✔️ No more wasted returns

✔️ Always the right fit—first time

We even send you a free measuring tape when you join.

adidas Sizing Compared to Other Brands

Brand	Compared to adidas
Nike	Slightly slimmer fit overall
Puma	Similar but less consistent
Gymshark	Runs smaller than adidas
Under Armour	Tighter fit, especially tops
Zara	Tends to run smaller overall
H&M Active	Less structured, looser fit

If you’re switching between these brands, it’s best to use a tool like Tellar.co.uk to ensure size accuracy. You can compare your adidas size to other retailers in seconds via the store size lookup tool.

adidas Sizing for Men vs Women

There are key differences to note between men’s and women’s adidas sizing:

Men’s fits tend to be roomier and more consistent
Women’s fits vary widely depending on the line—Performance, Originals, or collaborations
Women’s leggings, compression wear, and cropped tops often run small
Unisex styles (e.g. sweatshirts, jackets) may be oversized for women unless sized down

This is where unit selection (CM/inches) makes a big difference. On Tellar.co.uk, you can view your recommended size in either unit depending on your preferences.

How to Measure Yourself for adidas Clothing

To get the most accurate fit, measure these three key points:

Chest: Fullest part around bust/pecs
Waist: Narrowest part of your torso
Hips: Widest part of your lower body

Use this free measurement guide from Tellar.co.uk to get it right. Once you’ve done it once, you’ll never have to guess your size again—for adidas or any other brand.

Key Tips Before Buying adidas Clothes Online

Read the product description: Look for terms like “oversized fit” or “compression”
Check reviews: Especially on collab pieces, sizing feedback from others is valuable
Avoid guessing between sizes: Use a measurement-based tool to get it right
Stick to familiar lines: If you like the fit of adidas Performance, stick with that line for consistency

Backed by Data, Built for You: Tellar.co.uk

Adidas sizing may mostly run true—but relying on luck isn’t enough when fit matters. Whether you're shopping gymwear, athleisure, or designer collabs, Tellar.co.uk gives you precision and peace of mind.

✅ Completely free to use
✅ One-time setup with your measurements
✅ Match your size instantly to adidas and 1,500+ brands
✅ Free tape measure posted to your door
✅ Works on desktop and mobile
✅ Always logged in and ready when you shop

Find your adidas size now at Tellar.co.uk

No more confusion. No more wrong sizes. It’s free & easy.

Stay up to date with the latest sizing updates, fit guides, and brand reviews:

How to Measure Yourself Properly
Why Sizing Varies So Much Between Brands
Does Nike Run Small or Large?
Tellar’s Store Lookup Tool

Final Thoughts: So, Does adidas Run Big or Small?

The short answer: It depends on the line.

Performance gear – true to size
Originals and collaborations – often oversized
Women’s leggings and compression – run small
Men’s joggers and tees – usually accurate

But you don’t need to second-guess. Use Tellar.co.uk to confirm your adidas size instantly and shop smarter.