If you are a man who wears jeans, you have probably found on more than one occasion that the jeans just don't fit right in your waist. If you are looking for the perfect size of jeans, then check out the following sections. We have covered step-by-step guidelines on how to measure men’s waist size for jeans and more information on different types of jeans and cuts.

How to Measure Men's Waist Size for Jeans

Method 1

The easiest method to determine the size of the jeans is to measure another existing pair of jeans that fit very well using a measuring tape. Jeans are measured using two dimensions: the waist and the length of the trousers. The waist is measured using the tape from the upper corner of the waistband to the right – note down the number, as that is the waist size measured from an existing pair of trousers.

Next, measure the length of the jeans from the inner seam to the bottom corner and note down the second number. If for the first measurement you got 34 and the second is 32, then you need to purchase a pair of jeans that is 34/32.

Additionally, there are some extra tips to help you make the correct measurements. Before using the measuring tape, place the jeans flat on the floor. Ensure that the front button is fastened before proceeding.

To calculate the waist size, use the tape to measure from the upper corner of the waistband, measuring from left to right. When you measure the length, ensure that you measure the inner jeans length, from the gusset to the hem.

Method 2

If the first method cannot be used for any reason, you can take body measurements and calculate the size of the jeans by yourself.

It is important to measure accurately to determine the correct size of the jeans. The correct measurement takes the waistband’s narrowest point – the waist, but it depends on the type of jeans.

If you want to purchase low-rise pants, the widest part of the body needs to be measured instead – the top of the buttocks. When measuring the length, you need to use the inside part of the leg. Depending on the type of jeans, you may measure down to the ankle or the heel, the first measurement for reduced length or down to the heel for longer jeans.

Noting down both measurements for the waist and length, you will end up with one of the measurements available: 28/30 with 28 inches for waist and 30 inches for length, 29/30, 30/32, and so on. It is important to remember that the waist is measured from left to right.

What Does W/L Mean?

Jean sizes often come with the abbreviation W/L. W stands for waist, and L stands for length. For instance, if the jeans are 34/32, it means that they fit a waist of 34 inches, and they are 32 inches long.

How Accurate Are These Measurements?

Jeans come with different shapes, such as comfort fit, slim fit, regular fit, and differing waistlines, either low rise, high rise, or medium rise. These eventually will impact the fit of the jeans. Therefore, measurements will most likely serve only as a guideline. For the best results, if you measure existing jeans, the new pair should have the same shape and waistline. However, it is recommended to try the new jeans on.

Why Are Measurements Only Guidelines?

Apart front the waist size and the length of the jeans, jean cuts will most likely impact the overall fit. For instance, if the buttocks are larger or the pelvis wider, the jean cut might not fit as expected, even though the width and length are correct. When it comes to standard jeans sizes, the physical characteristics of individuals are not considered.

In order to solve these problems, most jeans nowadays are made with cotton and elastane materials, which make the jeans fabric smoother and possibly elastic. If you cannot try the jeans on before purchasing, it is recommended to go for slightly smoother, more elastic fabrics to ensure a good fit.

What are the Cuts of Classic Jeans?

As we’ve mentioned above, jeans’ shapes differ, which also impacts their fit, despite having the correct waist and length size. For instance, loose fit jeans are designed to fit loosely as the name implies, so they are often more comfortable and used on appropriate occasions. Another jean cut that allows somewhat more freedom is the baggy jean, which is more comfortable and wider.

Boot cut jeans are often paired with boots, which means they have a narrow thigh area and are wide from the knee down so that it covers the boot. Alternatively, skinny jeans follow the body’s shape closely, similar to French cut jeans. In terms of the waistline, there are high waist jeans that go above the waistline – so pay attention to the waistline!

Wrapping Up

All in all, measuring the waist size for men is not an exact science, but it can still be much simpler than with women’s jeans. You can measure one of the existing pairs of jeans that have a good size by noting down the waistband from left to right and the inner leg’s length from groin to the bottom.

Another option is to take body measurements. Unless the new pair of jeans are exactly the same cut and shape, it is highly likely that they will not be a perfect fit. You should measure the correct waistline – the waist (narrower part of the middle body) if you are looking for high waist jeans, or the wider part around the buttocks area if you need lower waist jeans. Similarly, measure the inner leg for length measurements.

The results, therefore, indicate the size, using the W/L mechanism. For instance, if you get 34 inches for waist and 30 inches for leg length, the new jeans need to be 34/30. You may use a jean size conversion chart for sizes outside of the US, such as the European or UK sizing system. Lastly, make sure you try them on if possible. Jean cuts differ significantly, and they might not fit as expected.