If you’ve ever shopped for pants or jeans, you’ve probably come across the term “inseam.” What is an inseam you ask?
While it might sound technical, the inseam is a straightforward measurement that’s crucial in finding the perfect fit for your bottoms. In this blog post, I’ll explain what an inseam is and provide a practical guide to help you measure it accurately, ensuring you choose pants that fit you like a glove.
Before learning about the inseam, how to measure it and so on, I would just try on every pair of jeans until they fit. But, knowing your inseam makes it much easier for you to shop online, and you know what to ask for when you go to a store.
By the end of this, you’ll be able to measure your own inseam, put it on a note in your phone, and you have it ready to hand.
What is an Inseam?
¨Inseam¨ is a word you will typically hear when you are getting a tailored suit or on a product description online. The inseam is the inner seam running from the crotch of a pair of trousers/jeans down to the hem at the bottom.
It is an essential measurement, as it determines the length of the leg and where the trousers will fall on your body. Properly measuring your inseam is important for achieving a comfortable fit and preventing any unwanted bunching or dragging.
You might be going to a wedding and you need to know these measurements to order your suit. Or you might be getting more interested in fashion and style and just want to know your measurements.
How to Measuring Your Inseam:
I want to give you a practical guide to measuring your inseam so you can get it over and done with, with no hassle.
To measure your inseam accurately, follow these easy steps:
1. Gather the Essentials:
- A flexible measuring tape or a ruler.
- A pair of pants or jeans that fit you well and have the desired length.
2. Wear the Right Shoes:
Put on the shoes you plan to wear with the jeans you are measuring. Different shoes can impact the length and fit, so it’s essential to wear the ones you intend to pair with the pants.
3. Stand Straight and Relaxed:
Stand against a wall with your back straight and your feet about hip-width apart. Make sure your body is relaxed, and your weight is evenly distributed.
4. Measure from Crotch to Ankle:
For pants that fit well: Start measuring from the crotch seam where the two legs meet, down to the hem at the bottom of the leg.
For pants that are too long or too short: Measure from the crotch seam to your desired pant length.
5. Note the Measurement:
Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters. This number is your inseam measurement, and it will help you find pants that are the perfect length for your legs.
6. Compare with Sizing Charts:
Now that you have your inseam measurement, check the sizing charts provided by brands or retailers to find pants that match your inseam length.
Inseam Chart
Below is a chart that shows the average height to inseam ratio for adults based on general body proportions. Keep in mind that this chart provides rough estimates and individual variations may exist.
| Height Range (in feet and inches) | Inseam Range (in inches) |
|---|---|
| 5'0" - 5'2" | 27" - 29" |
| 5'3" - 5'5" | 29" - 31" |
| 5'6" - 5'8" | 31" - 33" |
| 5'9" - 5'11" | 32" - 34" |
| 6'0" - 6'2" | 33" - 35" |
| 6'3" - 6'5" | 34" - 36" |
| 6'6" - 6'8" | 35" - 37" |
Conclusion:
Understanding what an inseam is and how to measure it ensures you’ll confidently find pants or jeans that fit you comfortably and flatter your body shape. By following this practical guide, you can master the art of measuring your inseam and make well-informed decisions when shopping for bottoms. Armed with your inseam measurement, you’ll enjoy a wardrobe filled with perfectly fitting pants that enhance your style and keep you looking and feeling your best.