Reference · Updated June 2026
Belt size reference
Belt sizes are labeled two different ways: by numeric size (matching pants waist in inches or cm) and by alpha size (S/M/L). The size refers to the distance from the buckle to the middle hole — not the end of the belt.
| US (in) | UK (in) | EU (cm) | Alpha |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 | 28 | 70 | XS |
| 30 | 30 | 75 | S |
| 32 | 32 | 80 | S |
| 34 | 34 | 85 | M |
| 36 | 36 | 90 | M |
| 38 | 38 | 95 | L |
| 40 | 40 | 100 | L |
| 42 | 42 | 105 | XL |
| 44 | 44 | 110 | XL |
| 46 | 46 | 115 | XXL |
| US (in) | UK (in) | EU (cm) | Alpha |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 | 24 | 60 | XS |
| 26 | 26 | 65 | S |
| 28 | 28 | 70 | S |
| 30 | 30 | 75 | M |
| 32 | 32 | 80 | M |
| 34 | 34 | 85 | L |
| 36 | 36 | 90 | L |
| 38 | 38 | 95 | XL |
| 40 | 40 | 100 | XL |
How to measure your belt size
Take a belt you already wear comfortably and measure from the point where the leather meets the buckle to the hole you actually use. That length in inches is your US belt size. In centimeters it's your EU size.
Buy one size up from your waist
If you're buying a belt without measuring an old one, order one size up from your pants waist size. A 34-inch waist typically fits a 36-inch belt because the belt sits on top of trousers and passes through belt loops.
Alpha sizes span two numeric sizes
A men's Medium usually covers 34-36 inches; Large covers 38-40. If you're between sizes, the middle hole should be the one you use — three holes to tighten, three to loosen.
Reversible and double-hole belts
Reversible belts are usually sold in alpha sizing only. Double-hole belts (with two rows of holes) accommodate a wider range and are useful if your waist fluctuates.
Common questions
- Is my belt size the same as my pants size?
- Close, but usually one size larger. A 32-inch waist typically wears a 34-inch belt to account for the belt passing over trousers through belt loops.
- How do I convert EU belt sizes to US?
- Divide the EU size (in cm) by 2.54, then round to the nearest inch. EU 85 = 33.5 inches ≈ US 34.
- What's the difference between belt sizes S, M, L?
- Alpha sizes are ranges: Small typically 30-32 inches, Medium 34-36, Large 38-40, XL 42-44. Ranges vary slightly by brand.