Men's underwear sizes, measure waist and hips

Short answer: Measure the waist at the narrowest point and the hips at the widest point, with a soft tape and without pulling hard. Compare the numbers with the size guide for the exact model you are looking at. Here is a calm walk through the steps.

Use a soft tape measure

Use a tailor's tape made of fabric and not a stiff folding rule. A stiff measure does not follow the shape of the body, so the number becomes unreliable. If you have no tape, use a piece of string and lay it against a ruler afterwards, which gives the same result.

Measure the waist

The waist is where the body is narrowest, often a little above the belly button. Stand straight, breathe out calmly and read the number. Keep the tape level all the way round, and pull it only tight enough that it lies flat without pressing into the skin.

Measure the hips

You measure the hips at the widest point, often around the fullest part of the seat. Stand with your feet together and keep the tape level. That number often decides the size of bamboo underwear for men, so measure twice to be safe.

Compare with the size guide

Write the numbers down and hold them next to the guide on the product page. The guide is made for that exact model and can differ from other brands. So do not simply buy the size you always take if your measurements point somewhere else.

When you fall between two sizes

If your numbers fall between two sizes, think about the cut and how much the fabric stretches. A soft fabric with a little elastic gives more than a firm one. If you like it loose, take the larger size, and if you like it close, take the smaller one.

Leg length and cut

Size is only half the story. The leg length decides where the underwear ends on the thigh, and it matters for whether it rubs. Look at bamboo boxer briefs in a cut that suits your body, and check that the leg does not squeeze the thigh.

Try one pair first

If you are unsure, order one pair and see how it sits before you buy more. Wash it once so you know whether it changes. That saves you from buying many pairs in the wrong size.

Measure again now and then

The body changes over time with weight, age and exercise. So measure yourself again now and then. Your numbers can also help when you choose other pieces, for example bamboo T-shirts for men, but always check the guide for the individual model.

Frequently asked questions

Should I measure myself in underwear or without clothes?

It is best to measure on bare skin or over thin clothes. Thick clothes make the number too large. Stand relaxed and let the tape lie flat.

Which measurement matters most for men's underwear?

Waist and hips are the two key numbers. The hip measurement often decides the size, and the waist shows whether the band sits well. Always compare with the guide for the specific model.

What should I do if I am between two sizes?

Choose by how close you like your underwear to sit. The larger size sits looser and the smaller one closer. Order one pair first if you are unsure.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.