We already went through what an inseam was here, now we will answer the question ¨what is an outseam?¨
Another really important measurement when you are looking for the perfect fit. It might seem like overkill, but trust me, when you get the measurements right and you are not having to tug at your crotch every two minutes, you will thank me.
In this blog post, I’ll explain what an outseam is and provide a practical guide to help you measure it accurately.
What is an Outseam?
The outseam is the outer seam of pants or jeans, running from the top of the waistband down to the hem at the bottom of the leg.
It´s the opposite of the inseam, and is literally opposite too.
It’s the full length of the pant leg along the outer side of your body. Measuring the outseam helps determine the overall length of the pants and how they will fit on your frame.
Practical Guide to Measuring Your Outseam:
To accurately measure your outseam, follow these simple 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. Find a Flat Surface:
Lay your pants or jeans flat on a surface with the front facing up. Ensure the waistband is straight and not twisted.
3. Start Measuring:
For pants that fit well: Begin measuring from the top of the waistband (where it sits on your waist) down to the hem at the bottom of the leg.
For pants that are too long or too short: Measure from the top of the waistband to your desired pant length.
4. Take Note of the Measurement:
Record the measurement in inches or centimeters. This number represents your outseam measurement.
5. Understand Different Outseams for Different Styles:
Keep in mind that outseam measurements can vary based on the style of the pants or jeans. For example, high-waisted pants will have a longer outseam than low-rise styles.
6. Compare with Sizing Charts:
Now that you have your outseam measurement, check sizing charts provided by brands or retailers to find pants that match your desired length.
| Height Range (in feet and inches) | Outseam Range (in inches) |
|---|---|
| 5'0" - 5'2" | 34" - 36" |
| 5'3" - 5'5" | 35" - 37" |
| 5'6" - 5'8" | 36" - 38" |
| 5'9" - 5'11" | 37" - 39" |
| 6'0" - 6'2" | 38" - 40" |
| 6'3" - 6'5" | 39" - 41" |
| 6'6" - 6'8" | 40" - 42" |
Conclusion:
As I said at the start, getting these two measurements right makes all the difference. You might even find that getting one or the other tailored gives you an even better fit.
Once you have all the measurements down, and you get your first few pairs of perfectly fitting jeans, you will be much better informed and know what you may want to tailor specific to you.