How to Measure Trousers and Shorts and Size Chart

How to Measure Trousers and Shorts and Size Chart

Trousers and shorts are bottom wear; we can call them trouser pants or short pants. Measurement is the biggest part of clothes’ quality, and knowing the size chart is also important to determine the available size in the market. In this article, we discuss how to measure trousers and shorts, and their size charts.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Measure Trousers and Shorts:

1. Inside leg seam: measure from crotch point to hem along the seam
2. Outside leg seam: measure from the top of the waistband down the outside leg seam or center fold if one-piece leg to the hem
3. Tie/cord length: measure from exit point to end
4. Waist: measure straight across from side seam to side seam – waist position as specified
5. Waist extended on the half: hold the waistband and stretch the garment out to its fullest extent, taken at the top edge of the garment.
6. Waistband depth: top edge of waistband to waist seam
7. High hip: measure at the same angle of the waistband, position as specified on the size chart
8. Lower hip: measure at the same angle as the waistband, a position as specified on the size chart
9. Across fork/thigh: measure from the crotch point to the side seam
10. Knee width: measure straight across halfway down inside leg
11. Leg opening/hem width: measure along the hem edge of the garment.
12. Front rise: top edge of the waistband along the seam to crotch point, except for lap seam which is measured in the center of the twin needle
13. Back rise: top edge of the waistband along the seam to crotch point, except for lap seam which is measured in the center of the twin needle
14. Back pocket from waistband: measure from waist seam to top of pocket
15. Front pocket opening: measure along the finished opening
16. Back pocket position from center back seam: measure from center back seam to the pocket edge

Size Chart of Trousers and Shorts for Men and Women

Men’s Trousers Size Chart

Size (US)	Waist (inches)	Hips (inches)	Inseam (inches)
S (28–30)	28–30	34–36	30–32
M (32–34)	32–34	38–40	32–34
L (36–38)	36–38	42–44	32–34
XL (40–42)	40–42	46–48	32–34

Women’s Trousers Size Chart

Size (US)	Waist (inches)	Hips (inches)	Inseam (inches)
XS (0–2)	24–26	34–36	28–30
S (4–6)	26–28	36–38	29–31
M (8–10)	28–30	38–40	30–32
L (12–14)	30–32	40–42	31–33

Tip: Always check the brand’s specific size guide, as sizing may vary.

Men’s Shorts Size Chart

Size (US)	Waist (inches)	Hip (inches)	Inseam (inches)
XS (26–28)	26–28	33–35	7–9
S (28–30)	28–30	35–37	7–9
M (32–34)	32–34	38–40	9–11
L (36–38)	36–38	41–43	9–11
XL (40–42)	40–42	44–46	10–12
XXL (44–46)	44–46	47–49	10–12

Women’s Shorts Size Chart

Size (US)	Waist (inches)	Hip (inches)	Inseam (inches)
XS (0–2)	24–26	34–36	2–3
S (4–6)	26–28	36–38	3–4
M (8–10)	28–30	38–40	4–5
L (12–14)	31–33	41–43	5–6
XL (16–18)	34–36	44–46	5–6
XXL (20–22)	37–39	47–49	6–7

Note:

• Inseam length for shorts typically ranges from 2–12 inches, depending on the style (e.g., running shorts, Bermuda shorts).
• Always refer to the brand-specific size guide for the most accurate fit.