How to measure your jeans size
Jeans are sized by waist (W) and inseam (L) in inches — e.g. W32 L32. Here's how to measure each.
WWaist measurement
Measure around your natural waist — roughly an inch above your belly button. Keep the tape snug but not tight. This gives you your waist number (e.g. 32 = 32 inch waist).
LInseam (leg length)
Measure from your crotch to the bottom of your ankle, with your legs straight. Common lengths are L28 (short), L30 (regular short), L32 (regular), L34 (tall). Most standard jeans are L32.
Men's jeans size chart — waist & UK equivalent
Find your waist size in inches and the equivalent UK trouser/dress size.
| Waist (inches) | Waist (cm) | UK trouser size | EU size | Label |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28" | 71 | 28 | 44 | XS |
| 29" | 74 | 29 | 46 | XS–S |
| 30" | 76 | 30 | 46–48 | S |
| 31" | 79 | 31 | 48 | S–M |
| 32" | 81 | 32 | 48–50 | M |
| 33" | 84 | 33 | 50 | M |
| 34" | 86 | 34 | 50–52 | L |
| 36" | 91 | 36 | 52–54 | L–XL |
| 38" | 97 | 38 | 54–56 | XL |
| 40" | 102 | 40 | 56–58 | XXL |
| 42" | 107 | 42 | 58–60 | 3XL |
* Waist sizes on jeans labels are often 1–2 inches larger than actual waist measurement (vanity sizing). Levi's in particular often run slightly large in the waist.
Inseam length guide
| Inseam label | Inches | CM | Height range |
|---|---|---|---|
| S (Short) | 28–29" | 71–74 | 5'5" – 5'7" (165–170cm) |
| R (Regular) | 30–32" | 76–81 | 5'8" – 5'11" (173–180cm) |
| L (Long) | 32–34" | 81–86 | 6'0" – 6'2" (183–188cm) |
| XL (Extra long) | 34–36" | 86–91 | 6'3"+ (190cm+) |
How major brands size their jeans
Each brand interprets waist sizes slightly differently — here's what to expect.
Levi's
Levi's jeans run slightly large in the waist — many go down 1–2 inches. 501s are roomier than 511s.
Runs slightly largeASOS
ASOS own-brand jeans are generally true to size. Wide range of lengths including XL (34") available.
True to sizeH&M
H&M jeans run true to size overall. Slim fits can be narrower in the thigh than expected.
True to sizeTopman
Topman jeans run slightly small in the waist. Size up by 1 inch for a comfortable fit.
Runs smallZara
Zara jeans run slim. The waist measurement on the label tends to be on the small side — size up.
Runs smallWrangler
Wrangler runs true to size with a classic straight fit. Consistent sizing across ranges.
True to sizeFind your jeans size by measurement or height/weight
FAQ
What does W32 L32 mean in jeans?
W32 means a 32-inch waist, L32 means a 32-inch inseam (inside leg length). These are the two measurements used to size men's jeans internationally. W32 L32 is the most common "standard" size — it fits men around 5'10"–5'11" with a 32-inch waist.
How do I convert my jeans size to UK trouser size?
UK trouser sizes use the same waist measurement in inches — a 32-inch waist is simply "32" in UK sizing. Some UK brands also use a numeric dress-size system (30, 32, 34, 36) which directly maps to the waist measurement.
What jeans size should I be if I'm a medium in clothing?
A men's Medium (M) label typically corresponds to a 32–34 inch waist (W32–W34). A standard M is most commonly W32 or W33. Your ideal inseam depends on your height — see the inseam table above.