Finding shorts that fit properly seems straightforward until you've ordered the wrong size online or ended up with shorts that looked fine in the store but feel all wrong during activity. Size inconsistencies between brands, confusing sizing charts, and the difficulty of assessing fit for different activities make getting the right size more challenging than it should be.

This guide provides practical methods for determining your correct shorts size and evaluating fit for different purposes. Whether you're shopping online or in-store, these techniques will help you find shorts that actually fit.

Taking Your Measurements

Accurate body measurements are the foundation of finding well-fitting shorts. You'll need a flexible measuring tape for these measurements.

Waist Measurement

Measure around your natural waist, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso, usually about 2.5cm above your belly button. Keep the tape snug but not tight. Don't hold your breath or suck in your stomach, as this will give you an inaccurate measurement that leads to shorts that are too small.

Hip Measurement

Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. Stand with your feet together and keep the tape level around your body. This measurement is particularly important for shorts with a fitted cut or for anyone who carries weight in their hips.

Inseam Reference

While shorts inseam is typically provided by the manufacturer as a design specification rather than something you match to your body, knowing your preferred inseam length helps when comparing options. Measure an existing pair of shorts that fits well, from the crotch seam to the bottom hem.

Measurement Tips
  • Measure over thin clothing or underwear, not over bulky garments
  • Have someone help you if possible for more accurate readings
  • Take measurements at the same time of day (bodies can vary slightly)
  • Write down your measurements and keep them handy for online shopping

Understanding Sizing Charts

Most brands provide sizing charts that correlate body measurements to their sizes. Learning to read these charts effectively is crucial for online shopping success.

Waist vs. Hip Sizing

Some brands size primarily by waist measurement, others by hip measurement, and some provide both. Check which measurement the brand considers primary and compare your corresponding measurement. If both are provided, ensure both fall within the size range.

Size Ranges

Sizing charts typically show ranges (e.g., waist 81-86cm for Medium). If your measurement falls between sizes or at the top of one range and bottom of another, consider how you prefer your shorts to fit. For a relaxed fit, size up. For a snug fit, size down.

Brand Variations

Sizes vary significantly between brands. A Medium in one brand might fit like a Large in another. Never assume your size is consistent across brands. Always check the specific sizing chart for each brand you're considering.

Sizing Chart Checklist
  • Always check the brand's specific sizing chart, don't assume from previous purchases
  • Compare your waist AND hip measurements when both are provided
  • Note whether measurements are in centimetres or inches
  • Consider your fit preference when between sizes
  • Read customer reviews for insights on whether items run large or small

Fit by Shorts Type

Different types of shorts should fit differently based on their intended purpose.

Athletic/Running Shorts

Running and athletic shorts should fit snugly at the waist without requiring constant adjustment during movement. The legs should allow complete freedom of motion without excessive fabric bunching or flapping. When you raise your knee to your chest, the shorts shouldn't restrict the movement or ride up uncomfortably.

Casual Shorts

Casual shorts typically have a more relaxed fit. They should sit comfortably at your natural waist or hips (depending on the style) without being tight. You should be able to sit, squat, and move comfortably. Overly tight casual shorts look and feel uncomfortable.

Board Shorts

Board shorts fit at the hips rather than the waist. They should be secure enough to stay in place during water activities but not so tight that they restrict movement. When wet, fabric can feel tighter, so ensure they have adequate room when dry.

Compression Shorts

Compression shorts should fit snugly throughout, providing constant gentle pressure. However, they shouldn't be so tight that they restrict movement, cause numbness, or leave deep marks on your skin. If you see red marks that don't fade quickly, the shorts are too tight.

Evaluating Fit When Trying On

Whether shopping in-store or evaluating an online purchase, use these criteria to assess fit.

Waistband Check

The waistband should sit comfortably without digging in or sliding down. You should be able to fit two fingers between the waistband and your body. For elastic waists, check that the elastic doesn't feel overly tight or loose. Drawstrings should adjust comfortably to secure the shorts.

Movement Test

Always perform movement tests appropriate to how you'll use the shorts. For athletic shorts, try high knee raises, squats, and lunges. For casual shorts, sit down and cross your legs. For board shorts, simulate paddling motions. Shorts that restrict any intended movement are the wrong size or cut.

Length Assessment

Check the length while standing and sitting. Shorts that seem an appropriate length standing may reveal more than you'd like when seated. Consider where you want the shorts to hit on your thigh and ensure they achieve that both standing and sitting.

Thigh Room

The leg openings should have adequate room for your thighs without being excessively baggy. Tight leg openings restrict movement and can cause chafing. Overly loose openings may look disproportionate and allow unwanted exposure during activity.

Signs of Poor Fit
  • Waistband that rolls, digs in, or constantly slides down
  • Fabric that bunches at the crotch when standing
  • Leg openings that ride up during movement
  • Visible strain lines across the hips or thighs
  • Restricted range of motion in any direction
  • Shorts that feel noticeably different wet vs. dry (for water activities)

Common Fit Issues and Solutions

Shorts That Ride Up

If shorts consistently ride up during activity, the leg openings may be too tight, the inseam too short for your body type, or the fit too loose at the waist causing them to shift. Try a different cut, longer inseam, or size down at the waist.

Waistband Problems

A waistband that won't stay in place often indicates the wrong size. Try sizing up if the waistband is tight but the shorts fit elsewhere. Try sizing down if the shorts fit well through the hips but the waist is loose. Some bodies are better suited to different waistband styles.

Too Tight Through the Thighs

If shorts fit at the waist but feel tight in the thighs, look for styles cut with more room in the legs. Athletic or relaxed fits typically offer more thigh room than slim or tailored cuts.

Online Shopping Tips

Shopping for shorts online requires extra care to avoid returns.

  • Measure yourself freshly rather than relying on old measurements
  • Read the sizing chart for the specific item, not just the brand's general chart
  • Look for customer reviews mentioning fit (runs large, runs small, true to size)
  • Check the return policy before ordering
  • Consider ordering two sizes if you're between sizes
  • Look for detailed product images showing fit on models similar to your build

When to Size Up or Down

Your intended use should influence sizing decisions when you're between sizes.

Consider sizing up when:

  • You prefer a relaxed, comfortable fit
  • You'll wear the shorts for activities requiring lots of movement
  • You plan to wear layers underneath
  • You tend to bloat or your size fluctuates

Consider sizing down when:

  • You prefer a fitted, athletic look
  • The shorts have significant stretch in the fabric
  • You're buying compression shorts
  • Customer reviews indicate the item runs large

The perfect fit is ultimately subjective. What feels comfortable to one person may feel too loose or too tight to another. Use these guidelines as a starting point, but trust your own comfort and preferences when making the final decision. If shorts don't feel right when you try them on, they probably won't feel right during use either.