Āhua Performance Size Guide
Āhua Performance is designed for movement, flexibility and strength, supporting your tinana as it trains, competes and recovers.
⚠️ Important Performance Fit Note Our Performance shorts are designed for a firm compression fit. If you prefer a more relaxed feel or are between sizes, choose the larger size. The shorts have a mid-thigh fit of approximately 15–16 cm.
📏 Youth Boys Compression Shorts
Y-front construction. Use waist and hip body measurements for the best fit.
| Size | Age | Height | Waist | Hip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Youth 4 | 4–5 yrs | 105–115 cm | 55 cm | 60 cm |
| Youth 6 | 5–6 yrs | 115–123 cm | 57 cm | 64 cm |
| Youth 8 | 7–8 yrs | 123–132 cm | 60 cm | 68 cm |
| Youth 10 | 9–10 yrs | 132–140 cm | 63 cm | 72 cm |
| Youth 12 | 10–11 yrs | 140–150 cm | 66 cm | 76 cm |
| Youth 14 | 11–12 yrs | 150–158 cm | 68 cm | 79 cm |
| Youth 16 | 12–13 yrs | 158–165 cm | 70 cm | 82 cm |
Youth 16 transitions naturally into Men’s XS. If between sizes, choose the larger size.
📏 Men’s Compression Shorts
Use waist measurements as the main guide. If between sizes, choose the larger size.
| Size | Waist (in) | Hip (in) | Waist (cm) | Hip (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 28 | 28–29 | 71–74 | 71–74 |
| SM | 30 | 29–31 | 74–79 | 74–79 |
| MD | 32–33 | 31–34 | 79–86 | 79–86 |
| LG | 34–36 | 34–37 | 86–94 | 86–94 |
| XL | 38–40 | 37–41 | 94–104 | 94–104 |
| XXL | 42–44 | 41–45.5 | 104–116 | 104–116 |
| 3XL | 46–48 | 45.5–50 | 116–127 | 116–127 |
| 4XL | 50–52 | 50–54.5 | 127–138 | 127–138 |
| 5XL | 54–56 | 54.5–59 | 138–150 | 138–150 |
True size provides firm compression. Choose one size larger for a more relaxed fit.
📐 How to Measure
- Waist: Measure around the natural waist or where the waistband will sit. Keep the tape level and firm, not tight.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of the hips and seat with feet together.
- Height: For youth sizing, measure barefoot from the floor to the top of the head.
Measure directly against the body or over light clothing. Do not pull the tape tightly.
📏 Youth Girls Compression Shorts
Smooth-front construction with a firm compression fit. These measurements refer to the shorts themselves.
| Size | Waistband | Inseam | Outseam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth 4 | 41 cm | 9 cm | 21 cm |
| Youth 6 | 44.5 cm | 9.5 cm | 22 cm |
| Youth 8 | 48.5 cm | 9.5 cm | 23 cm |
| Youth 10 | 52.5 cm | 10 cm | 24 cm |
| Youth 12 | 56.5 cm | 10.5 cm | 24.5 cm |
| Youth 14 | 60.5 cm | 11 cm | 25.5 cm |
| Youth 16 | 64.5 cm | 11.5 cm | 26.5 cm |
If between sizes or fuller through the hips or thighs, choose the larger size.
📏 Women’s Compression Shorts
Use your usual NZ women’s clothing size as the starting point.
| Āhua Size | Approx. NZ Size |
|---|---|
| S | 10 |
| M | 12 |
| L | 14 |
| XL | 16 |
| XXL | 18 |
Choose your usual size for firm compression. If between sizes or wanting a more relaxed fit, choose the larger size.
❓ Choosing Between Sizes
- Choose your usual size for a firm compression fit.
- Choose the larger size for a more relaxed feel or easier pull-on fit.
- If waist and hip measurements differ, follow the larger measurement.
- For fuller thighs, choose the larger size rather than sizing down.
✨ First Wear & Movement
- Step into the shorts and work them up gradually in small sections.
- Position the waistband evenly without pulling from one point.
- Adjust the leg openings so the fabric sits smooth and flat.
- Walk, squat and bend before training to check that the fit feels secure and comfortable.
Performance compression should feel supportive and secure while still allowing full movement. It should never cause pain, numbness or restricted breathing.
Need Help Choosing?
Send us the wearer’s age, height, waist and hip measurements, and let us know whether you are choosing Youth Boys, Youth Girls, Men’s or Women’s Performance shorts. We will help you choose the best fit.