How to Measure Belt Size

Two easy methods to find your belt size. All you need is a tape measure or a belt you already own.

1

Tape Measure Method

What you need: A flexible tape measure (the kind used for sewing).

  1. Step 1Wear the pants you plan to wear with the belt. Stand naturally and avoid sucking in your stomach.
  2. Step 2Wrap the tape measure around your waist through the belt loops of your pants. Position it where you normally wear a belt.
  3. Step 3Pull the tape snug but not tight. You should be able to fit one finger between the tape and your body.
  4. Step 4Note the measurement in inches or centimeters. Find this measurement in our belt size chart to determine your size.

Tip: If you only have a rigid ruler, use a piece of string first, then measure the string against the ruler.

2

Existing Belt Method

What you need: A belt that fits you well and a ruler or tape measure.

  1. Step 1Lay your best-fitting belt flat on a table.
  2. Step 2Measure from where the buckle pin meets the leather (the fold or end of the buckle) to the hole you use most often.
  3. Step 3This measurement in inches is your belt size. Match it to our size chart, or use the converter.

Tip: This is the most accurate method because it accounts for how you actually wear your belt.

Tips for Accurate Measurement

  • •Add 2 inches to your pants size. If you know your pants waist size, adding 2 inches gives a good estimate of your belt size. Wear size 32 pants? Start with a 34 belt.
  • •Measure where you wear it. Dress belts worn at the natural waist will need a different size than casual belts worn at the hips.
  • •Account for clothing layers. If you often wear tucked-in shirts or thicker pants, measure over those layers.
  • •Aim for the middle hole. When choosing between sizes, pick the one that lets you buckle at the center hole for the most adjustment range.
  • •When in doubt, size up. A belt that is slightly too long can be tucked, but a belt that is too short will not buckle comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is belt size the same as pants size?

No. Belt size is typically 2 inches larger than your pants waist size. For example, if you wear size 34 pants, you would likely need a size 36 belt.

Should I measure my waist or my hips for belt size?

Measure where you actually wear the belt. Dress belts are typically worn at the natural waist (above the navel), while casual belts sit at the hips. Measure at the position you plan to wear the belt.

What if my belt size falls between two sizes?

Round up to the next size. A slightly longer belt can be adjusted with the buckle, but a belt that is too short cannot be lengthened.

Do leather belts stretch over time?

Yes. Full-grain and top-grain leather belts will stretch slightly with regular wear, typically about half an inch over the first few months. Bonded leather and synthetic belts stretch very little.

How should a belt fit properly?

A properly fitting belt should fasten comfortably at the middle hole. This gives you room to adjust one or two holes tighter or looser as needed. The tail of the belt should reach the first belt loop past the buckle.