Underwear Size Guide

Measure your waist, not your trouser size

Your trouser size and your actual waist are often different. Many trouser brands label generously, so a man who wears 32-inch trousers can easily measure 33 or 34 inches.

To measure, wrap a soft tape measure around your waist where the underwear waistband sits, usually just below the belly button. Keep the tape level and snug but not tight, and breathe normally. That number, in inches, is your underwear size.

Waist sizes in inches and centimetres

28 inch waist = 71cm. 30 inch = 76cm. 32 inch = 81cm. 34 inch = 86cm. 36 inch = 91cm. 38 inch = 97cm.

Our underwear is listed by waist size in inches, from 28 to 38 depending on the style. Always check the sizes shown on the product page, because not every style comes in every size.

Our size chart (UK standard)

XS fits a 26 to 28 inch waist (66 to 71cm).

S fits a 28 to 30 inch waist (71 to 76cm).

M fits a 32 to 34 inch waist (81 to 86cm).

L fits a 36 to 38 inch waist (91 to 97cm).

XL fits a 40 to 42 inch waist (102 to 107cm).

Where a style is sold in waist sizes rather than letters, simply choose your waist measurement in inches.

What size boxers for a 32 inch waist?

Choose a 32, or a Medium in letter sizes. On our UK standard chart, a Medium fits a 32 to 34 inch waist.

If you are at the very bottom of the Medium range and like a snug fit, a 32 in waist sizes will feel closer than a Medium.

What size boxers for a 34 or 36 inch waist?

Choose a 34 or a 36. On our chart, a 34 inch waist is a Medium and a 36 inch waist is a Large.

If you measure between two sizes, go up. Our boxers are cut for a snug fit with a contoured pouch, and a pair that is slightly roomy at the waist is more comfortable than one that is slightly tight.

Trunks, boxer briefs, boxers, briefs and jocks

Trunks are fitted with a short leg. In the UK, trunks usually means a shorter version of the boxer brief.

Boxer briefs are fitted like trunks but with a longer leg, which helps stop them riding up.

Boxer shorts are loose, woven and relaxed, with no support.

Briefs have no leg at all and sit higher on the thigh.

Jocks, or jockstraps, have a waistband and a front pouch with straps and an open back. They are popular for the gym and for their fit.

Women's sizes

Our women's sports underwear follows standard UK dress sizes: S fits UK 8 to 10, M fits 12 to 14, L fits 16 to 18 and XL fits 20 to 22. Check each product page for the sizes available in that style.

Still unsure?

Come and see the range at 73 Lower Richmond Road, Mortlake SW14, or contact us before you order and we will help you choose. Delivery options and your rights on returns are on our delivery and returns page.