Bariatric briefs and underwear: sizing beyond XL

Bariatric briefs and underwear: sizing beyond XL

Sizes beyond XL go by several labels, including 2XL, 3XL and bariatric, and the labels do not mean the same thing from one maker to the next. At this end of the range, your own measurements are a better guide than a label or a clothing size. This guide explains how larger sizes are named, how to measure accurately, and which features help with fit.

How larger sizes are labelled

There is no single standard. You may see XL, then XXL or 2XL (two ways of writing the same label), 3XL, or a size called bariatric. Three listings show the variety:

Because a Large in one line can cover a wider range than a Large in another, treat the letters as a starting point and the stated range as the answer. Our sizing guide has a general adult chart in inches and centimetres.

Measuring accurately at larger sizes

At the top of a size range, a couple of inches of error can mean a different size, so take your time.

  1. Use a soft tape measure over thin clothing. If the tape is too short, mark where it ends, carry on from that point and add the two lengths.
  2. Measure the waist just below the navel, or wherever the midsection is widest, and the hips around the widest part of the hips and seat. Keep the tape level all the way around.
  3. Keep the tape snug against the body without pressing into it.
  4. Write both numbers down in inches and centimetres (1 inch is 2.54 cm).

Compare the larger of the two numbers with the chart, unless the product page says to use one measurement in particular. Measure again whenever your weight or shape changes, and before switching to a new product line.

Tab-style or pull-on: what comes in bigger sizes

Both styles are made in larger sizes by some makers, though there can be fewer options near the top of the range. In our listings, briefs generally means tab-style and underwear means pull-on, so confirm the style on the product page.

  • Tab-style briefs are fastened on the body and can be adjusted, which helps when the waist and hips differ a lot. They can also suit a caregiver who changes the product while the person is lying down.
  • Pull-on underwear is put on like regular underwear, which can suit someone who manages their own changes while standing.

Features that help: wider side panels and a longer rise

When you read product descriptions at larger sizes, look for the details below. A title may not list them, so check the full description or ask us.

  • Wider side panels or tabs: a wider panel gives more area to fasten across, which spreads the pull over the hips.
  • A longer rise: a product that reaches higher at the front and back has more height to stay in place over a fuller midsection.
  • Refastenable tabs: tabs that can be opened and closed again make small adjustments possible.
  • Stretch at the waist or sides: flexibility lets the product move with the body when you sit or bend.

Common fit problems and what they point to

What you notice What it often points to What to try
Waistband or tabs dig in and leave deep marks Size too small, or tabs fastened too tightly Loosen the tabs first, then try the next size up
Product slides down at the back Rise too short, or waist too loose Pull it up and refasten; if it repeats, look for a longer rise
Tabs fasten at the very edge of the front panel Not enough width across the hips or midsection Try the next size up, or a line with stretch sides

If marks from the waist or legs are sore, or the skin looks red or broken, ask a doctor, nurse or pharmacist. A change of size alone will not answer that.

Ordering: pack counts and trying one size first

Pack counts differ by line and by size, and a larger size can come with fewer pieces in the pack than a smaller size of the same line. Compare the count and size in the product name, and see the current price on the product page. It also helps to work out how many changes you need in a day, so you know how long a pack will last.

Confirm the fit before you commit to volume. The Wings listing above is a case of 72, so if you can, try a smaller pack of any new line first. On the first wear, check that the tabs stay closed when you sit, that the waistband stays flat instead of rolling under the midsection, and that the side panels do not strain when you bend. If the fit is close but not right, try the next size in the same line before you change brands, since the shape is likely to be similar. Browse larger sizes in our incontinence products collection.

Shop this guide

Prices are on each product page. Free shipping on orders of $100 or more within Canada.

Common questions

What size is bariatric?

There is no single measurement. The general chart in our sizing guide uses it for 3XL and up, but makers apply the term in their own way, so go by the range on the product page and your own measurements.

Does my clothing size tell me the product size?

Not reliably. Clothing and protective products are cut differently, so measure your body and compare the numbers with the product chart.

Does a larger size hold more?

Not necessarily. Size describes the body the product is cut for, and absorbency is stated separately in the product name or description. Check both before you order.

Should the measurement be taken standing or lying down?

Use the position that is safe and comfortable for the person, with a helper if needed, and use the same position each time. If you are unsure how to measure safely, ask a nurse or another member of the care team.

Not sure which larger size to order? Send us your waist and hip measurements through our contact page and we will help you choose. We reply within one business day.