What Size Leather Belt Should I Buy? (Sizing Guide) | Leather Makers
What Size Leather Belt Should I Buy?
Belt sizing causes more confusion than almost any other accessory — and a belt that's too big or too small is a frustrating thing to get in the post. The good news: there are three simple, reliable ways to find your size, and at least one of them needs nothing but a belt you already own. Here's how.
How belt sizing works
First, the principle. A well-fitting belt should fasten on the middle hole of its five holes. That middle hole is the belt's stated size, and the extra holes either side give you room to adjust as needed. So when you buy, you're aiming for the middle hole to land comfortably at your natural waist.
Method 1: By your trouser size (the quick rule)
The fastest estimate: your belt size is usually about 2 inches larger than your trouser waist size. So if you wear 34-inch trousers, you'd typically take a 36-inch belt. It's a reliable starting point — though because trouser sizing varies between brands, the next two methods are more precise.
Method 2: Measure a belt you already own (the most reliable)
This is the most accurate method, because it's based on a belt that actually fits you:
- Take a belt you wear comfortably and lay it flat.
- Measure from the point where the strap meets the buckle (not the buckle's end) to the hole you currently use.
- That measurement, in inches, is your belt size.
If your favourite belt measures 36 inches to your usual hole, order a 36.
Method 3: Measure yourself
No belt to hand? Measure your body where you'll wear the belt:
- Wrap a soft tape measure around your waist at the point you wear your trousers, over a shirt (not bare skin).
- Take that measurement in inches.
- Add 1–2 inches for comfort — that's your belt size.
A few sizing tips
- Wear position matters — if you wear trousers lower on the hips, measure there, not at your natural waist.
- Round up if between sizes — easier to use a tighter hole than to wish for more length.
- Buckle style — very chunky buckles can affect fit slightly; the methods above account for normal buckles.
Still unsure?
If you're between sizes or sizing for a gift (where you can't measure the person), check the specific measurements on the product page — and feel free to contact us before ordering. For choosing the belt itself, see How to Choose a Leather Belt, and for the full accessory range, our accessories guide.
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FAQs
What size belt should I buy for 34-inch trousers? Typically a 36-inch belt — belt size is usually about 2 inches larger than your trouser waist. For precision, measure a belt that already fits you.
How do I measure my belt size? The most reliable way: lay a belt that fits flat, and measure from where the strap meets the buckle to the hole you use. That measurement in inches is your size.
Which hole should a belt fasten on? The middle hole of five. That's the belt's stated size, with the other holes giving room to adjust.
What if I'm between belt sizes? Round up to the larger size — it's easier to use a tighter hole than to run out of length. Check the product page measurements if unsure.