How to Measure for Jeans
Four measurements — waist, hips, rise and inseam — are all you need to buy jeans online with confidence.
The short answer: the most accurate way is to measure a pair of jeans that already fit you well — lay them flat and measure the waist, hips, rise and inseam. Then compare those numbers with the size chart of the jeans you want.
Measuring your best-fitting jeans
Waist
Button the jeans and lay them flat. Measure straight across the top of the waistband from edge to edge, then double it.
Hips
Measure straight across the widest point, usually just below the fly, and double it.
Rise
The front rise runs from the crotch seam to the top of the front waistband. Rise determines where the jeans sit: roughly, low rise sits below the hips, mid rise just below the navel and high rise at or above it.
Inseam
Measure from the crotch seam down the inside of the leg to the hem.
Measuring your body instead
No jeans that fit? Measure your body where you'll wear the waistband (which may be lower than your natural waist), around the fullest part of your hips, and your inside leg from crotch to ankle.
Comparing with a size chart
Jeans are sized in many ways: waist/length in inches (32/30), numbered sizes (US 8, EU 38) or letters. Find the size where waist and hips both fit, then check the rise and inseam.
How jean fits change your size choice
| Fit | What it means | Sizing note |
|---|---|---|
| Skinny | Tight from hip to ankle | Usually stretch; hips and thighs matter most |
| Slim | Close but not tight | Check thigh measurement if available |
| Straight | Even width from knee down | Waist and hips decide the size |
| Relaxed | Roomy through seat and thigh | Waist is the main measurement |
| Wide / loose | Generous leg throughout | Waist and rise decide the size |
For help choosing a fit, read how to choose jeans, then browse women's jeans or men's jeans.