Jeans size calculator
Jeans sizes: W and L explained
W30 L32? See at a glance which German women's or men's size is behind it — and which waist and length your own measurements call for.
Jeans sizes conversion: the short answer
On jeans, W (width) is the waist size and L (length) the inseam, both in inches (1 inch = 2.54 cm). W32 is roughly a men's 48 or a women's 42 in German sizes, and L32 is an inseam of about 81 cm.
Jeans size chart: waist (W) in German sizes
| W | cm | EU Women | EU Men | INT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| W24 | 61 | 32 | – | XXS |
| W25 | 64 | 34 | – | XS |
| W26 | 66 | 34 | – | XS |
| W27 | 69 | 36 | – | S |
| W28 | 71 | 38 | 42 | S |
| W29 | 74 | 38 | 44 | M |
| W30 | 76 | 40 | 44 | M |
| W31 | 79 | 42 | 46 | M |
| W32 | 81 | 42 | 48 | L |
| W33 | 84 | 44 | 48 | L |
| W34 | 86 | 46 | 50 | L |
| W36 | 91 | 48 | 52 | XL |
| W38 | 97 | 50 | 54 | XL |
| W40 | 102 | 52 | 56 | XXL |
| W42 | 107 | 54 | 58 | XXL |
Waist measurement = W × 2.54 cm, rounded. The match to German sizes is a guide value, because jeans sit higher or lower depending on the cut.
- W – Waist in inches
- cm – Waist in centimeters
- EU Women – EU women's size
- EU Men – EU men's size
- INT – Letter sizes (XXS–XXL)
Jeans length (L) in centimeters
| Length | Inseam cm |
|---|---|
| L28 | 71 |
| L30 | 76 |
| L32 | 81 |
| L34 | 86 |
| L36 | 91 |
| L38 | 97 |
Choosing the right length (L)
The length L measures the inseam from the crotch to the hem. As a rough guide by height:
- up to about 5'5" (1.65 m): L28–L30
- about 5'5"–5'9" (1.65–1.75 m): L30–L32
- about 5'9"–6'1" (1.75–1.85 m): L32–L34
- over 6'1" (1.85 m): L34–L36
Your own inseam is more precise — enter it in the calculator under “By measurements”.
Measure W on a pair of jeans
- Button the jeans, lay them flat and smooth out the waistband.
- Measure the waistband straight across, edge to edge.
- Double that number and divide it by 2.54 — that is the waist in inches.
Example: 40.5 cm × 2 = 81 cm ÷ 2.54 ≈ W32.
The cuts at a glance
- Skinny: skin-tight from waistband to ankle.
- Slim: narrow, but not clinging.
- Straight / regular: straight from the knee down.
- Relaxed / loose: roomy through thigh and leg.
- Bootcut / flared: widening from the knee.
- Mom / boyfriend: high-waisted or loose-fitting, often a little shorter.
Tips for getting the size right
Stretch content
Jeans with elastane give. If you are between two waist sizes, the smaller one usually fits in stretch denim.
Rise
Low-waist styles sit lower on the hips, where you are wider. Here it pays to take one waist size more.
Plan for cuffing
If you like to roll your hems, pick one length more. For sneakers without stacking, pick one length less.
FAQ about jeans sizes
What size is W30 in EU sizes?
W30 is a waist of about 76 cm — roughly a men's size 44 or a women's size 40 in German sizes.
What size is W32 L32?
W32 L32 is roughly a men's size 48 with an inseam of about 81 cm, or a women's size 42.
What jeans length do I need at 5'11" (1.80 m)?
At 5'11" (1.80 m), L32 or L34 usually fits. Measure your inseam for an exact answer.
What W size is women's size 38?
German women's size 38 is usually a W28 or W29.