When it comes to pants, the right inseam can make all the difference in your outfit. The inseam is a measurement that runs from the inside of your pants leg down to the hem, determining the length and fit of your clothing. By measuring your inseam, you can make sure your pants or jeans are the perfect fit. Whether you’re shopping around for jeans, chinos, leggings, joggers or dress pants, your inseam measurement will help you find the right clothes for a comfortable and stylish look.
To help you, we’ve compiled this guide on how to measure your inseam. From denim to suits, explore the best ways to measure an inseam to find fitted pants for men and women.
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What Is An Inseam?
The inseam is the length between your crotch and ankle, also known as the inner leg seam on your pants. An inseam measurement will determine how your jeans or pants fit, allowing you to choose the right size for your height and leg length. For men and women who want fitted wardrobe items, measuring the distance from the top of your thigh down to the bottom of your leg can help you buy pants that are the perfect size for your body.
If you need help finding the inseam on pants, denim jeans often feature different color stitching along the area. The inseam is naturally the inside seam and the outseam can be found on the outside part.
How To Measure An Inseam
Measuring The Inseam on Pants
If you have a comfortable and fitted pair, you can measure the inseam of your pants. The best way to measure an inseam is to take a measuring tape and calculate the distance from the crotch area to the bottom of your pant leg. Whether you’re measuring pants or jeans, you’ll want to lay them flat on the bed and place the tape measure along the seam to determine the length. The number of inches is the inseam length.
You’ll need to choose a pair of pants that fits you well. Once you’ve measured the inseam, you can shop around for pants and jeans that correspond to your size. If you plan to roll or hem your pant legs, make sure to buy a size with an extra one to two inches in length. You can tailor your clothing to get the perfect fit.
Measuring The Inseam on Your Body
To measure the inseam on your body, you’ll need to use a measuring tape to figure out the length between your crotch and the cuff on the inside seam. Start by standing up straight and letting the tape measure fall in front of your body. Step on the measuring tape and make sure to note how many inches you are stepping on and where your pant leg would end so you can properly adjust your length.
Run the tape up your inner leg and press into your crotch or the uppermost part of your thigh to determine the number. When calculating your inseam, you’ll need to subtract the number of inches at the bottom. If you’re measuring your inseam for suit pants, consider putting on dress shoes to ensure the hem is the right length.
You can also ask a family member, friend or tailor to help take your body measurements.
Measure Inseam on Shorts
The inseam on your shorts should be measured from the crotch to inner leg along the inside. The most common short lengths are 5″, 7″, 9″ and 11″. Your inseam measurement can help you choose the right fit, determining where on your thigh you want your shorts to end. To measure the inseam on shorts, start by laying the item on a flat surface and stretching all the fabric out. Run a tape measure from the bottom of your shorts to the crotch area right below the zipper. This length in inches is the inseam for your shorts.
