Model in blue suit being fitted by 2 seamstresses

HOW TO MEASURE LEG LENGTH

Getting your inside leg measurement right is crucial for a perfect fit. This guide walks you through understanding and accurately measuring your inside leg.

Measuring tape

INSIDE LEG MEASUREMENTS - HOW TO MEASURE TROUSER LEG LENGTH

Ever bought trousers online, guessing the length, only to find they’re either too short or bunched up around your ankles? Getting the inside leg measurement right is crucial for a perfect fit, affecting both comfort and style. This guide walks you through understanding and accurately measuring your inside leg, ensuring your trousers always look tailormade.

UNDERSTANDING INSIDE LEG MEASUREMENTS

Figuring out your inside leg measurement is key to getting trousers that fit just right. It's simply the length from your crotch down to where you want your trousers to end, usually around your ankle. Knowing this measurement makes a big difference in how your trousers look and how comfy they feel. Your inside leg length can change depending on how tall you are, how your body is shaped, and even the length you like your trousers. Get this right, and your trousers will sit properly on your shoes, avoiding that bunched-up look at the ankles and giving you a neat, tailored appearance.

HOW TO MEASURE INSIDE LEG FOR TROUSERS

It’s easy to measure your inside leg at home. Here’s what to do:

1. Stand up straight, with your feet a little apart. Wear thin socks or go barefoot.

2. Grab a flexible tape measure and put one end as high as you can comfortably on your inner thigh, close to your crotch.

3. Run the tape straight down the inside of your leg to where you want your trousers to finish, usually around your ankle bone.

4. Write down the measurement. You can use inches or centimetres, whichever you prefer.

To get the best result, ask someone to help you. Bending over can mess up the measurement. Make sure the tape measure is straight, not twisted. It’s a good idea to measure a couple of times and take an average, just to be sure.

Denim material with labels laid over the top. The label's read "Tapered fit", "Bootcut fit", "Loose fit" and "Skinny fit"

MEASURING FOR JEANS

Measuring for jeans is pretty much the same. Just remember that jeans often sit a bit lower on your waist, so you might want to start the measurement a touch lower on your thigh. Think about how you like your jeans to fit at the bottom – do you want them to bunch a little on your shoes or sit neatly?

JACAMO’S INSIDE LEG MEASUREMENTS

We’re proud to deliver men’s fashion that fits, no matter your build or size. Covering sizes S - 5XL (and we’ve now introduced some 6XL options too), our trousers and jeans come in waist sizes 28 inches to 54 inches and our leg lengths range from 27 inches to 35 inches. See our full size guide for an extended view here.

Inside leg Measurements;

XS – Extra Short Leg Length - 27 inches (69cm)

S – Short Leg Length – 29 inches (74cm)

R – Regular Leg Length – 31 inches (79cm)

L – Long Leg Length – 33 inches (84cm)

XL – Extra Long Leg Length – 35 inches (89cm)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Is leg length measurement the same as inside leg measurement?

A: Yes, when buying trousers or jeans, “leg length” almost always refers to the “inside leg measurement” or “inseam.” These three terms are generally used interchangeably in the context of clothing sizes.

Q: Should I measure barefoot or with shoes on?

A: When measuring a garment, it doesn’t matter, as the garment itself dictates the length. However, when trying to figure out your ideal length, consider the shoes you’ll wear most often.

Q: What’s a “break” in trousers, and why does it matter for leg length?

A: The “break” refers to the slight crease or fold that forms at the bottom of your trousers when the fabric rests on your shoes.

Q: My jeans always seem to shrink after washing. What should I do?

A: Ah, the dreaded denim shrinkage! If you know a particular brand or style of jeans shrinks on you, you have a couple of options: Buy slightly longer: If they consistently shrink an inch, buy them an inch longer than your ideal. Wash cold and air dry: Washing in cold water and letting them air dry (or tumble dry on low heat) can significantly reduce shrinkage. Follow our denim care guide for more info.

Q: I have different shoes. Should I get different leg lengths for different trousers?

A: For a truly optimal look, yes. Dress trousers worn with formal shoes might need a slightly longer inseam than casual chinos worn with trainers. However, for simplicity, most men find a “sweet spot” measurement that works well with the majority of their footwear.

Q: Can I just go by my height when buying trousers?

A: Not reliably! While height gives a general idea, leg length varies greatly from person to person, even among those of the same height. Some people have longer torsos and shorter legs, and vice versa. Always rely on an actual inside leg measurement for the best fit.

Q: I’m between sizes for leg length. Should I go up or down?

A: For trousers and jeans, it’s generally safer to go slightly longer if you’re between sizes. It’s always easier to shorten trousers (a simple alteration) than to lengthen them.