Have you ever bought a pair of pants online, only to find they’re either flooding your ankles or dragging on the floor? Getting the right fit isn’t just about waist size it’s also about the outseam. If you’re looking to perfect your fit or tailor your clothing like a pro, knowing how to measure your outseam correctly is essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple, foolproof steps to measure your outseam at home. Whether you’re shopping for jeans, tailoring dress pants, or ordering custom-made trousers, this skill will help you make confident decisions and avoid frustrating returns.
What is an Outseam?
The outseam refers to the measurement from the top of your waistband (where your pants naturally sit) to the bottom of the pant leg along the outer edge of your leg. It’s different from the inseam, which runs along the inside of your leg from the crotch to the ankle.
Why the outseam matters:
- Ensures proper length for pants, joggers, and shorts.
- Crucial for custom-made and tailored garments.
- Affects how clothing sits and moves on your body.
Outseam vs. Inseam: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Outseam | Inseam |
|---|---|---|
| Starts From | Waistband | Crotch seam |
| Ends At | Bottom of pant leg (outer side) | Bottom of pant leg (inner side) |
| Measured Along | Outer leg | Inner leg |
| Common Usage | Tailoring, full pant length, skirts | Fitting jeans and trousers |
Knowing both measurements is vital when you want perfectly fitting bottoms. Brands may vary in how they size pants, so comparing both helps you buy with confidence.
What You’ll Need to Measure Your Outseam
Before diving in, gather the following:
- A measuring tape (soft and flexible, preferably cloth or tailor’s tape)
- A full-length mirror (optional but helpful)
- A helper (if possible, for more accurate measurements)
- A well-fitting pair of pants (as a reference, if needed)
- Notebook or phone to jot down the measurements
🔧 Pro Tip: Always stand straight during measurement for accuracy, and wear shoes similar to what you plan to wear with the pants.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Measure Your Outseam Correctly
Step 1: Stand Up Straight
Stand on a flat surface with your feet shoulder-width apart. It’s best to wear tight-fitting clothing or stand in your undergarments for a more accurate reading.
Step 2: Locate the Starting Point
Place the measuring tape at the top of your waistband not your hips or belly button, but where you normally wear your pants.
- For high-rise pants: Measure from the natural waistline.
- For low-rise pants: Measure from where the waistband sits on your hips.
Step 3: Measure Down to the Ankles
Let the measuring tape fall along the outer side of your leg all the way down to the ankle bone or where you want the pant leg to end (just above the heel).
- For full-length pants: End at the bottom of your ankle or desired break.
- For cropped styles: Stop mid-calf or above the ankle.
⚖️ Note: Keep the tape straight and taut but not too tight.
Measuring Outseam Using an Existing Pair of Pants
If you prefer not to measure on your body, you can also use a pair of well-fitting pants:
- Lay the pants flat on a surface.
- Smooth out wrinkles and align seams.
- Measure from the top of the waistband to the bottom of the leg along the outer edge.
- Record the measurement.
- This is a great method when buying clothes online based on garment dimensions rather than body size.
Step 4: Record the Measurement
Check the number where the tape meets the ankle. This is your outseam measurement in inches or centimeters (whichever you prefer).
Tips for Accurate Outseam Measurement
- Always measure both legs slight differences are normal.
- Re-measure to confirm accuracy.
- If you’re between sizes, round up for tailoring flexibility.
- For formal wear, factor in shoe height.
- Use a mirror or helper to check alignment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Measuring from the hips instead of the waistband.
❌ Letting the tape sag or curve around the leg.
❌ Wearing bulky shoes or clothing during measurement.
❌ Using a stiff ruler instead of a soft measuring tape.
Outseam Measurement by Pant Style
Different styles may require different outseam lengths:
| Pant Style | Recommended Outseam |
|---|---|
| Jeans | Down to ankle or slightly longer |
| Dress Pants | Just above the heel |
| Joggers | Above the ankle |
| Shorts | Mid-thigh or knee-length |
| Capris | Mid-calf |
Always consider the intended look and comfort level when adjusting your measurements.
Real-World Example: Why Outseam Measurement Matters
Consider Jane, who ordered custom-tailored slacks for a wedding. She only provided her inseam. When the pants arrived, they were too short an inch above her shoes. After re-measuring her outseam and providing it, the adjusted version fit perfectly.
Moral of the story? Inseam alone doesn’t cut it when it comes to precision.
Using Outseam When Shopping Online
Online retailers often include garment measurements. Use your outseam to:
- Compare against listed product dimensions.
- Filter out options that are too short or too long.
- Avoid costly returns or exchange delays.
Check if the store offers a size guide and whether they measure from the waistband or another point.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the average outseam length?
- For men: Around 40–44 inches (varies by height)
- For women: Around 36–42 inches
Can I convert outseam to inseam?
Not directly. They’re measured from different starting points. However, you can subtract the rise (distance from waistband to crotch) from the outseam to estimate the inseam.
Is outseam used in tailoring?
Absolutely. Tailors use both outseam and inseam to design trousers, suits, and even skirts to match the wearer’s proportions.
Conclusion: Measure Once, Fit Forever
Getting your outseam measurement right might seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference in how your pants fit, feel, and look. Whether you’re customizing trousers or ordering joggers online, knowing how to measure your outseam correctly saves time, frustration, and money.
✅ Stand straight
✅ Start at the waistband
✅ Measure down to your ankle
✅ Record and use your measurement confidently
Take these easy steps today and say goodbye to ill-fitting pants for good.