The British Army's 1960 Pattern and later 1968 Pattern combat uniforms remain some of the most popular pieces of post-war military clothing amongst collectors, reenactors and outdoor enthusiasts.
Unlike modern British Army clothing, these uniforms were not labelled using NATO sizes. Instead, both the Combat Smock and Combat Trousers used a simple numbered sizing system from Size 1 to Size 9.
If you've found a smock or pair of trousers marked Size 4, Size 7 or Size 9 and are wondering what that actually means, the conversion tables below should help.
British Army 1960 & 1968 Pattern Combat Smock Size Guide
| Army Size | Height | Chest | Modern Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size 1 | Up to 5'7" | 34–36" | Small Short |
| Size 2 | Up to 5'7" | 37–39" | Medium Short |
| Size 3 | Up to 5'7" | 40–43" | Large Short |
| Size 4 | 5'7"–5'10" | 34–36" | Small Regular |
| Size 5 | 5'7"–5'10" | 37–39" | Medium Regular |
| Size 6 | 5'7"–5'10" | 40–43" | Large Regular |
| Size 7 | 5'10"–6'2" | 36–38" | Small Long |
| Size 8 | 5'10"–6'2" | 39–42" | Medium Long |
| Size 9 | 5'10"–6'2" | 43–46" | Large Long |
British Army 1960 & 1968 Pattern Combat Trouser Size Guide
| Army Size | Height | Waist | Inside Leg | Modern Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size 1 | 5'3"–5'6" | 28–30" | 30" | Small Short |
| Size 2 | 5'3"–5'6" | 31–33" | 30" | Medium Short |
| Size 3 | 5'3"–5'6" | 34–37" | 30" | Large Short |
| Size 4 | 5'7"–5'10" | 28–30" | 32" | Small Regular |
| Size 5 | 5'7"–5'10" | 31–33" | 32" | Medium Regular |
| Size 6 | 5'7"–5'10" | 34–37" | 32" | Large Regular |
| Size 7 | 5'11"–6'2" | 30–32" | 34½" | Small Long |
| Size 8 | 5'11"–6'2" | 33–36" | 34½" | Medium Long |
| Size 9 | 5'11"–6'2" | 37–40" | 34½" | Large Long |
A Quick Note About Fit
Original British Army combat clothing was designed to be worn over other layers of clothing, including a wool shirt and jersey. As a result, 1960 and 1968 Pattern uniforms often feel roomier than modern civilian clothing with similar chest or waist measurements.
For the best fit, we always recommend comparing the measurements in our listings with a jacket or pair of trousers that already fits you well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the 1960 Pattern and 1968 Pattern size systems the same?
Yes. Both patterns use the same numbered size system from Size 1 to Size 9, making this guide suitable for both uniforms.
What is a British Army Size 5 smock?
A Size 5 Combat Smock is designed for someone approximately 5'7" to 5'10" tall with a 37–39 inch chest. In modern terms, this is roughly equivalent to a Medium Regular.
What is a British Army Size 7 smock?
A Size 7 Combat Smock is intended for someone approximately 5'10" to 6'2" tall with a 36–38 inch chest, making it approximately a Small Long.
Are these the same as NATO sizes?
No. The numbered Size 1–9 system was used before the British Army adopted the NATO sizing system found on later combat clothing.
Why does my original smock feel larger than a modern jacket?
British Army combat clothing was designed to be worn over additional layers, so it generally has a more generous fit than modern civilian clothing.
Where can I find the size label?
On most original uniforms, the size label is sewn inside the garment and will normally include the size number, manufacturer, year of manufacture and contract details. For a smock, either at the neckline or inside flap. Trousers, at the waistline.
Can different manufacturers vary slightly?
Yes. Although all manufacturers followed the same Army specification, small differences in cut can occur. Many uniforms have also shrunk or stretched slightly after decades of use and washing.
Should I choose my modern clothing size?
Not necessarily. We recommend using the conversion tables above together with the measurements provided in the listing to ensure the best possible fit.
We hope this guide has helped explain the British Army's 1960 & 1968 Pattern sizing system. If you're looking for an original Combat Smock or Combat Trousers, browse our latest arrivals here at The Militaria Shop.
Further Reading
At The Militaria Shop, we’re collectors ourselves — and we know how much a good reference guide can help. We’ve been building out a library of guides covering everything from German helmet sizes and RZM codes to British uniform sizing and War Department stamps. We add new ones as we get the time, so there’s always something new in the works.
You can find all our guides on the Militaria Collectors Guides page, or browse a selection below.
