How Sneakershyllan Measures Pants – And How to Find the Right Fit When Shopping Second Hand

Buying pants second hand online is a great way to find unique pieces, vintage styles and quality garments that may no longer be available in stores.

But finding the right size can sometimes be tricky.

A size 32, M or 48 does not necessarily mean the same fit across different brands, models or eras. Two pairs of pants with the same size on the label can have completely different measurements.

That is why actual garment measurements are so important when shopping second hand.

At Sneakershyllan, we measure our pants in a consistent way to make it easier for you to understand the actual size and fit of each garment.

Here is exactly how we measure them.

How does Sneakershyllan measure pants?

All pants are measured while laying flat.

We use four main measurements:

1. Waist
2. Outer leg
3. Inner leg
4. Leg opening

Understanding these measurements gives you a much better idea of how a pair of second hand pants will fit.

1. Waist – measured flat × 2

The waist is measured while the pants are laying flat.

We measure from one side of the waistband to the other and multiply the measurement by 2.

Example

If the waist measures 40 cm across:

40 cm × 2 = 80 cm

The approximate waist measurement is therefore 80 cm.

Why does the waist measurement matter?

The size shown on the label is not always an accurate representation of the actual measurement, especially when buying vintage or second hand clothing.

Comparing the waist measurement with a pair of pants you already own is often much more useful.

2. Outer leg – from waist to cuff

The outer leg is measured along the outside of the pants, from the waist all the way down to the cuff.

This measurement gives you an idea of the overall length of the pants. Sometimes the pants has been altered and there for not the same length as the label would indicate.

It can be especially useful if you already know what kind of pant length you prefer.

3. Inner leg – from crotch to cuff

The inner leg is measured from the crotch down to the cuff.

This is one of the most useful measurements when comparing the length of different pairs of pants.

For example, if you have a pair at home that fits you perfectly and has an inner leg measurement of 78 cm, you can compare that measurement with the second hand pair you're considering.

4. Leg opening – measured flat × 2

The leg opening is the width of the pant leg at the bottom.

We measure it while laying flat and multiply the measurement by 2.

Example

If the leg opening measures 20 cm flat:

20 cm × 2 = 40 cm

The approximate leg opening is therefore 40 cm around.

This measurement is particularly useful when you're trying to understand how wide the pants will be.

A narrower opening will create a different silhouette compared with a wider, more relaxed leg opening.

Why are measurements so important when buying second hand pants?

When shopping for new pants in a store, you can usually try them on.

When shopping second hand online, you often can't.

That's why measurements become especially important.

Sizing varies between brands

A vintage pair marked W32 does not necessarily have the same measurements as a modern pair marked W32.

Sizing can vary depending on:

• brand
• model
• country
• year
• material
• fit
• vintage vs. modern sizing

That's why we recommend not relying solely on the size shown on the label.

The easiest way to find your size

The best way to use our measurements is to find a pair of pants you already own that fits you well.

Lay them flat and measure the same points:

Waist → outer leg → inner leg → leg opening.

Then compare those measurements with the measurements listed for the Sneakershyllan product.

This allows you to compare garment to garment, rather than trying to convert sizing between different brands.

Think about fit – not just size

Two pairs of pants can have the exact same waist measurement and still fit completely differently.

This can be due to:

• cut
• rise
• thigh width
• knee width
• leg opening
• fabric
• stretch

Our measurements are therefore designed to help you understand the actual proportions of the garment.

If you prefer an oversized or baggy fit, for example, you may want different measurements than someone who prefers a straight or slimmer silhouette.

When you shop online at Sneakershyllan you always have 14 days return policy. Read more about it here.

Vintage sizing can be different

This is particularly important when shopping vintage.

Older garments can use sizing systems that don't correspond directly to modern sizing. Vintage pants may also have changed slightly over time due to wear and washing.

A good rule of thumb is:

Measurements first – label size second.

Use the size on the label as a reference, but use the actual measurements to determine whether the pants are likely to fit you.

What should I check before buying second hand pants?

Here is our Sneakershyllan checklist:

1. Check the waist

Compare it with a pair of pants you already know fits you well.

2. Check the inner leg

This helps you determine whether the pants are long enough.

3. Look at the outer leg

This gives you an idea of the overall length.

4. Check the leg opening

Especially important if you have a particular silhouette or styling in mind.

5. Don't rely only on the label size

The labeled size does not guarantee a specific actual measurement.

6. Consider the cut

Straight, relaxed, loose, baggy and slim fits will all feel different, even with the same waist measurement.

7. Compare with something you already own

This is often the most reliable way to determine whether second hand pants will fit.

FAQ – Buying Second Hand Pants

How does Sneakershyllan measure pants?

Sneakershyllan measures pants while laying flat. The waist and leg opening are measured flat and multiplied by two. The outer leg is measured from the waist to the cuff, while the inner leg is measured from the crotch to the cuff.

Should I rely on the size on the label?

Not on its own. Sizing can vary between brands, models and different eras. Compare the actual measurements with a pair of pants you already own and know fits well.

How do you measure the waist of pants?

Lay the pants flat and measure from one side of the waistband to the other. Multiply the measurement by two to get the approximate waist circumference.

How do you measure the inner leg of pants?

Measure from the crotch down along the inside of the leg to the cuff.

How do you measure the outer leg?

Measure from the waist down along the outside of the pants to the cuff.

How do you measure the leg opening?

Lay the bottom of the pant leg flat and measure across the opening. Sneakershyllan then multiplies this measurement by two.

Why are vintage pants different in size?

Sizing systems and fits have changed over time and also vary between brands and countries. As a result, the same labeled size can have different actual measurements.

How do I know if second hand pants will fit me?

The safest approach is to compare the waist, inner leg, outer leg and leg opening with a pair of pants you already own and know fits you well.

When you shop online at Sneakershyllan you always have 14 days return policy. Read more about it here.

In short

When buying second hand pants online, actual measurements are more important than the size on the label. Sneakershyllan measures the waist and leg opening flat and multiplies them by two, while the outer leg is measured from the waist to the cuff and the inner leg from the crotch to the cuff.

By comparing these measurements with a pair of pants you already own, you can make a much more informed decision and increase your chances of finding the right fit when shopping vintage and second hand online.