Squat Suit: Measuring for Optimal Fit, Performance, and Safety

How to Measure for a Squat Suit?

Accurately measuring for a squat suit is crucial for maximizing performance, ensuring safety, and optimizing comfort; it involves precise body measurements compared against the specific manufacturer's sizing chart to achieve a skin-tight, supportive fit.

Understanding the Squat Suit: Purpose and Importance of Fit

A squat suit is a specialized piece of supportive apparel worn by powerlifters to enhance performance in the squat lift. Typically constructed from extremely strong, woven materials like denim, canvas, or polyester, it compresses the body and stores kinetic energy during the eccentric (lowering) phase of the squat. This stored energy is then released during the concentric (ascending) phase, providing an elastic rebound that assists the lifter in moving heavier loads.

The fit of a squat suit is paramount. An ill-fitting suit can not only compromise performance by failing to provide optimal support but also significantly increase the risk of injury, particularly to the hips, knees, and lower back. A suit that is too loose will not offer the necessary compression and rebound, while one that is too tight can restrict movement, cause discomfort, and even lead to tears in the fabric or, more critically, soft tissue injuries to the lifter.

Essential Tools for Accurate Measurement

Before you begin the measurement process, ensure you have the correct tools readily available:

• Flexible Tape Measure: A fabric or tailor's tape measure is essential. Avoid rigid metal tape measures, as they cannot accurately conform to the curves of the body.
• Pen and Paper (or Digital Device): To meticulously record each measurement.
• A Helper: While not strictly mandatory, having another person assist you will significantly improve the accuracy of your measurements, especially for areas that are difficult to reach or view on your own.

Preparing for Measurement

Proper preparation ensures the most accurate readings:

• Minimal Clothing: Wear only underwear or very thin, form-fitting athletic shorts. Bulky clothing will add inches to your measurements, leading to an oversized suit.
• Natural Posture: Stand in a relaxed, natural upright posture. Do not suck in your stomach or flex your muscles, as this will distort measurements.
• Consistency: Take each measurement multiple times to ensure consistency. If there's a slight variation, use the average or the larger measurement for safety, especially when dealing with tight-fitting gear.
• Snug, Not Constricting: When measuring, pull the tape measure snugly against the skin, but do not compress the flesh. It should be tight enough to not slip but loose enough that you can comfortably slide a finger underneath.

Key Body Measurements for Squat Suits

While specific manufacturers may request slightly different data points, the following are the most common and critical measurements for sizing a squat suit:

• Chest/Upper Torso: Measure the circumference around the fullest part of your chest, typically just under the armpits and across the shoulder blades. While squat suits cover the lower body, this measurement helps determine the fit of the bib or strap system for overall torso length.
• Waist: Measure the circumference at your natural waistline, which is usually the narrowest part of your torso, often just above the navel.
• Hips/Glutes: This is one of the most crucial measurements. Measure the circumference around the fullest part of your hips and glutes, ensuring the tape measure is level all the way around. This dictates how easily you can get into the suit and the initial fit around your largest lower body dimension.
• Thigh (Mid-Thigh): Measure the circumference of your thigh at its thickest point, typically about 6-8 inches below the crotch. Measure both thighs and record the larger measurement if there's a difference. This ensures the leg openings of the suit are appropriately sized.
• Inseam: Measure from the crotch (where the seams of your pants would meet) straight down the inside of your leg to the floor. This helps determine the appropriate leg length of the suit, which usually ends just above the ankle bone.
• Torso Length (Optional but Helpful): Some manufacturers may ask for a torso length measurement. This is typically taken from the top of the shoulder (near the neck) down through the crotch. This helps determine the overall vertical fit of the suit and the tension on the shoulder straps.

Interpreting Size Charts and Brand Variations

It is imperative to understand that size charts are not universal across brands. A "medium" from Inzer may be vastly different from a "medium" from Titan or Metal.

• Always Consult the Specific Brand's Chart: Once you have your measurements, compare them directly to the size chart provided by the manufacturer of the squat suit you intend to purchase.
• Between Sizes: If your measurements fall between two sizes, it is generally recommended to opt for the smaller size. Squat suits are designed to be extremely tight and will stretch slightly with use and breaking in. A slightly tighter suit will provide more support, whereas a slightly looser one will not offer the intended benefits.
• Consider Experience Level: Novice lifters might choose to go with the upper end of a size range or even the next size up if they are between sizes, to ease the breaking-in process. Experienced lifters often prefer the tightest possible fit for maximum support and carryover.
• Contact Customer Support: If you are uncertain about your measurements or the sizing chart, do not hesitate to contact the manufacturer's customer service or a reputable powerlifting gear retailer. They often have experienced staff who can guide you.

Tips for Optimal Suit Fit and Performance

• Expect Extreme Tightness: A new squat suit will feel incredibly tight, almost uncomfortably so. This is normal and necessary for its function.
• Breaking In is Essential: New suits are very stiff. They require a significant breaking-in period, which involves wearing the suit during lighter training sessions to allow the material to conform to your body and become more pliable.
• Lubrication: Applying a thin layer of baby powder or a specialized suit slick to your legs and hips can help you slide into the suit more easily.
• Professional Guidance: If possible, seek assistance from an experienced powerlifting coach or a seasoned lifter who is familiar with using squat suits. They can offer invaluable advice on proper sizing, donning the suit, and maximizing its benefits.

Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid

• Measuring Over Clothes: This is the most common error and leads to inaccurate, oversized measurements.
• Holding the Tape Incorrectly: Too loose or too tight will skew results.
• Not Measuring Key Areas: Skipping crucial measurements like hips or thighs will result in an ill-fitting suit.
• Ignoring Brand-Specific Charts: Assuming a size based on regular clothing or another brand's chart is a recipe for error.
• Not Re-measuring: If your body composition changes significantly (e.g., gaining or losing weight), re-measure yourself before purchasing a new suit.

Conclusion

Measuring for a squat suit is a precise process that directly impacts your safety, comfort, and lifting performance. By meticulously following these guidelines, taking accurate measurements, and diligently cross-referencing with the specific manufacturer's sizing chart, you can ensure you select a suit that provides optimal support and helps you achieve your powerlifting goals. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to finding your perfect fit.