Belt Size Calculator
Convert your pant size or actual waist measurement into the correct belt size — belts are sized to the middle hole, not your waist.
How it works
Belt size = waist (or pant size) + 2 in, rounded to the nearest even size · Middle hole lands at your true waist
Belt length is measured from the buckle fold to the middle hole, and it should be about two inches larger than your waist so the pin lands on that centre hole with a hole to spare on each side. Buying a belt equal to your pant size leaves you buckling on the very first hole, which looks and wears badly. Belts are stocked in even sizes, so round to the nearest even number.
Worked example
For a 34 in pant size, add 2 to get 36, so you buy a size 36 belt. Threaded on, the buckle pin reaches the middle hole with room to loosen or tighten a hole as your waist changes through the day.
Frequently asked questions
Should I buy a belt equal to my pant size?
No — go up about 2 inches. A belt equal to your pant size makes you fasten on the first hole with no room to adjust, and the tail ends up too short to reach the keeper loop.
How do I measure if I don't know my belt size?
Thread a belt you already wear and measure from the buckle fold to the hole you use. That length in inches is your belt size. Alternatively, add 2 to your pant waist size.
What if I'm between even sizes?
Round up to the next even size. Most belts have five holes spanning about four inches, so one size covers a comfortable range and rounding up keeps the middle hole in reach.
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This calculator is for educational purposes. Double-check important results before acting on them.