Jeans size guide

Jeans sizes have two different measurements; one for the waist, and one for the length, generally in inches. Find some tips below to find the perfect pair of jeans.

How jeans sizes work

A jeans size like W32 L32 or 32×32 has two numbers, both in inches. W is the waist, measured where the jeans sit. L is the length of the inside leg seam (the inseam), from the crotch down to the hem. The same system is used for both men and women.

To find your size, measure your waist and inseam (men, women) and match them to the charts below. Measure your waist where your jeans actually sit, usually a little below the belly button, not at your natural waist.

Men’s jeans size chart

Waist

Above W34, most brands only make even sizes. If your measurement falls between two sizes, choose the larger one in rigid denim and the smaller one in stretch denim. Many brands cut their jeans a little bigger than the label says, so a W33 may measure closer to 34 inches.

Length (inseam)

Height is only a rough guide, since leg length varies between people of the same height. Your inseam is always the more reliable number. Skinny and slim jeans are often worn one size shorter, while bootcut and straight jeans worn with boots may need one size longer.

Women’s jeans size chart

Waist

Women’s jeans are often labeled with the waist number only, such as 27, instead of W27. In stretch denim, the smaller of two sizes usually fits best.

Length (inseam)

Some brands use Short, Regular and Long instead of an L number. These usually match L30, L32 and L34. Height is only a rough guide, and your inseam is the more reliable number. See also our measuring guide for women.

Find the right fit

Rise

The rise is the distance from the crotch to the top of the waistband. High-rise jeans sit at or above the natural waist, mid-rise sit just below it, and low-rise sit on the hips. The rise changes where you should measure your waist, so check it before choosing a size.

Stretch or rigid denim

Jeans with 1–2% elastane stretch and give more room for movement. They loosen up with wear, so a snug fit in the store is usually right. Rigid 100% cotton denim keeps its shape and lasts longer, but has almost no give. Choose your true size, and expect raw denim to shrink if you wash it.

Cut

Skinny jeans fit tight from hip to ankle. Slim jeans are close-fitting but with a little more room. Straight jeans have the same width from knee to hem. Bootcut and flare jeans widen below the knee. Relaxed and loose cuts have extra room in the seat and thighs. If you have muscular thighs, try a slim taper or athletic cut instead of going up a waist size.

Signs the size is right

You should be able to slide two fingers into the waistband without it gaping at the back. There should be no pulling across the front, no sagging in the seat, and the hem should just touch the top of your shoes. A tailor can easily shorten the legs or take in the waist, but very little can be let out.

Common questions

What does 32×32 mean in jeans?
It means a 32-inch waist and a 32-inch inseam (leg length). The first number is always the waist and the second is the length.

Is my jeans size the same as my pants size?
For men, usually yes, since both use the waist in inches. For women, jeans sizes (W24–W34) and US pants sizes (00–18) are different systems. Use the women’s chart above to convert between them.

Should I size up or down in jeans?
Size down by one in stretch denim if you’re between sizes, since it loosens with wear. In rigid denim, choose the larger size.

Why does my size differ between brands?
Many brands use vanity sizing, so the label is smaller than the actual measurement. The difference can be one or two inches. Always check the brand’s own size chart when there is one.

Last updated: October 2026