How to Measure Inseam on Shorts: 4 Step by Step Guide

Measuring the inseam on shorts might seem tricky at first. But with a few simple steps, you can do it easily at home. Knowing the inseam length helps you find the perfect fit, ensuring that your shorts are neither too long nor too short and that the legs are in proportion.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to measure the inseam on shorts correctly. Whether you’re shopping online for a perfect pair of shorts or making your own garments, this skill is handy. Let’s get started!

What is an Inseam?

The inseam is the length of the inner leg seam on a pair of shorts, jeans, or pants. It runs from the crotch to the bottom of the shorts leg or pant leg. The inseam length determines how long the shorts or pants will be on your leg. A longer inseam means longer shorts, while a shorter inseam results in shorter shorts. Understanding the inseam length is important for ensuring the style of pants or shorts fits your body type and personal preference.

Tools You’ll Need

To measure the inseam, you need a few basic tools:

• A Measuring Tape: A flexible measuring tape is ideal for getting an accurate inseam measurement.
• A Flat Surface: A flat surface, such as a table or floor, helps you lay the shorts flat to take precise measurements.
• A Well-Fitting Pair of Shorts: Choose a pair of shorts or pants that you already love the fit of. This will help you determine the ideal inseam length.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measure Inseam on Shorts

Measuring the inseam on shorts is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to ensure accuracy. An accurate inseam measurement will help you find shorts that fit well and suit your style. Below, I’ll break down each step in detail so you can measure the inseam on your shorts with confidence.

1. Lay the Shorts Flat

First, find a clean, flat surface to work on. A table, countertop, or even the floor will work, as long as it is flat and firm. Place the shorts flat on this surface. Make sure they are not bunched up or folded. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases in the fabric. This is important because any folds or wrinkles can lead to inaccurate measurements.

Ensure that the shorts are lying naturally and are not stretched or pulled in any direction. The waistband should be even, and the legs should be lying flat, with the seams aligned properly. This helps in getting a true measurement from the crotch seam to the hem, resulting in an accurate inseam length.

2. Find the Crotch Seam,

The next step is to locate the crotch seam. The crotch seam is the point where the two legs of the shorts are joined together. It’s usually the center seam that runs along the bottom of the shorts, from one leg to the other. This seam forms an inverted “V” or “Y” shape in most shorts and jeans.

This is the starting point for measuring the inseam. It’s crucial to start from the correct point to get an exact inseam measurement. Place your fingers on the seam at the exact point where the two legs meet. This is where you will begin your measurement.

3. Measure Down the Inside Leg

Now that you’ve located the crotch seam, it’s time to measure the inseam. Take a flexible measuring tape and place the end of it at the crotch seam where the two legs of the shorts meet. Ensure that the measuring tape starts right at the intersection of the seams.

Carefully extend the measuring tape down along the inside of the shorts leg. Follow the seam line closely, keeping the tape straight and flat against the fabric. Make sure there are no twists or bends in the tape, as this could lead to an inaccurate inseam measurement.

Continue to measure all the way down to the bottom of the leg, at the hem. The hem is the edge of the fabric at the bottom of the shorts. Make sure to measure to the very end of the hem, not just to where the fabric starts to fold.

While measuring, it’s important to keep the shorts and measuring tape flat and straight. If the shorts have a fold or the tape is not aligned properly, it could add extra length to your measurement. The measuring tape should follow the natural curve of the shorts leg but remain as flat as possible against the fabric for a precise measurement.

4. Read the Measurement

Once you’ve measured all the way down to the hem, check the measurement on the tape. The number where the tape meets the hem of the shorts is your inseam length. Take note of this number.

It’s a good idea to double-check your measurement. To do this, repeat the measurement process to ensure accuracy. If both measurements match, you can be confident that you have the correct inseam length. If they don’t, check to make sure that the shorts were flat and that the measuring tape was straight and flat against the fabric.

Write down the inseam length or remember it for future reference. If you’re measuring inseams for different pairs of shorts, keep a record of each one.

Tips for Accurate Measurement

• Use a Well-Fitting Pair: Use a pair of shorts or jeans that you already like the fit of. This helps you get the most accurate inseam length that suits your style.
• Ensure the Shorts Are Completely Flat: Make sure the shorts are lying completely flat on the surface. Any bunching or wrinkles can affect the measurement.
• Measure Twice to Ensure Accuracy: Always measure twice to ensure accuracy. It’s better to double-check your work for the best results.

Why Inseam Measurement Matters

Knowing how to measure the inseam on shorts is incredibly useful. It helps you choose the right size when shopping, whether for shorts, jeans, or other sorts of garments. This avoids the hassle of returns or exchanges due to incorrect sizing. Plus, you get the comfort and style you want from your shorts or pants.

Inseam length can also vary based on personal preference. Some people prefer a longer inseam for more coverage, such as for a pair of skinny jeans or casual shorts. Others like a shorter inseam for a more relaxed, casual look. By measuring the inseam, you can find the perfect length for your body type and style.

Conclusion

Now you know how to measure the inseam on shorts! With this skill, you can always ensure a perfect fit, whether you’re buying shorts, pants, or jeans. Remember, it’s all about comfort and style. So, grab your measuring tape and start measuring today for the ideal inseam!