How to Measure Your Waist for Underwear That Fits Right

Quick answer

To measure your waist for underwear, wrap a soft measuring tape around your natural waist—the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above your belly button. Keep the tape snug but not tight, and note the measurement in inches. For hip measurement, wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. Always compare your measurements to the specific brand's size chart, as sizing varies between brands and styles.

Why waist and hip measurements both matter for underwear fit

Your waist measurement determines the waistband size, but your hip measurement ensures the underwear won't be too tight across your seat or too loose. For boxer briefs and briefs, the hip measurement is especially important because these styles rely on a snug fit to stay in place. If you only use your waist size, you might end up with underwear that rides up or digs in. Taking both measurements gives you a more accurate picture of your body shape and helps you choose the right size on any underwear size guide men rely on.

How to measure your waist correctly

Stand straight and relax your body. Find your natural waist by bending to one side—the crease that forms is your natural waistline. Wrap a soft measuring tape around this point, keeping it parallel to the floor. Don't pull the tape tight or let it sag. Breathe normally and record the number where the tape meets. If you're between sizes, round up for a more comfortable fit, especially for styles with less stretch.

How to measure your hips for underwear

Stand with your feet together. Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks, usually about 7 to 9 inches below your waist. Ensure the tape is level all the way around and not twisted. This measurement helps you avoid underwear that's too tight across the seat or too baggy. For briefs, which have a higher cut, your hip measurement is key to preventing the leg openings from digging in.

Using a boxer brief size chart effectively

Every brand's boxer brief size chart can differ, so always check the specific chart for the style you're buying. Compare your waist and hip measurements to the chart's ranges. If your waist falls into one size and your hips into another, choose the size that accommodates the larger measurement for comfort. Pay attention to the fabric—stretchy materials like Modal or Supplex can offer more forgiveness, while less elastic fabrics require a closer match.

Common measuring mistakes to avoid

Measuring over thick clothing, pulling the tape too tight, or letting it slant can all skew your results. Always measure against bare skin or thin underwear. Another mistake is using an old measurement—body shapes change, so re-measure every few months or before buying a new brand. Lastly, don't assume you're the same size in every style; a brief fit measurement may differ from a boxer brief due to cut and coverage.

Step-by-step: measure yourself for underwear

1. Gather your tools: Use a soft measuring tape. If you don't have one, use a string and then measure it against a ruler. Checkpoint: Ensure the tape is flexible and not stretched out.
2. Find your natural waist: Bend to one side to locate the crease. Stand straight and wrap the tape around this narrowest point, keeping it level. Mistake to avoid: Measuring over clothing or holding your breath.
3. Measure your hips: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks, usually 7-9 inches below your waist. Keep it parallel to the floor. Checkpoint: The tape should touch your skin without compressing it.
4. Record and compare: Write down both measurements. Compare them to the brand's size chart, choosing the size that fits your larger measurement. Next step: If between sizes, size up for comfort, especially in less stretchy fabrics.

Product facts

• CX94BR Flexmode Boxer Brief: CX94BR Flexmode Boxer Brief features luxurious ribbed Italian-made FlexMode fabric and the Original Pouch for enhancing lift. The stretchy, breathable fabric accommodates slight size variations, while the pouch design provides support without extra bulk.
• CX01MD Modal Brief: CX01MD Modal Brief is made with soft, breathable Modal fabric and a high-cut brief design with the Original Pouch. Modal's natural stretch and moisture-wicking properties keep you fresh, and the high-cut leg means your hip measurement is crucial for avoiding tightness.