Buying a leather belt seems straightforward—until it doesn’t fit. A belt that’s too tight can feel uncomfortable, while one that’s too loose won’t stay in place. For men in Canada, selecting the correct belt size is not just about style, but also about comfort and function.

Unlike pants, belts follow a different sizing method. Many men end up with the wrong size because they rely only on their waist measurement. Others may not know how to read size charts or what “belt size” actually refers to. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, this guide will help you find the right fit using easy steps and helpful tips.

Let’s break down how to measure correctly so that you can buy a leather belt that fits right the first time.

Tips to Measure Leather Belt Sizes for Men

1. Don’t Just Go by Your Pant Size

This is the most common mistake men make. If you wear a size 34 in pants, that does not mean you should buy a size 34 belt.

Belt sizes are based on the length from the buckle to the middle hole, not the tip of the belt or the end of the leather. To get the right fit, add 2 inches to your pant size. That means if you wear 34-inch waist pants, your ideal belt size is 36 inches.

This small change makes a significant difference in comfort and the appearance of the belt when worn. Always size up, not down, when shopping for belts.

2. Measure a Belt You Already Own

If you have a well-fitting belt, use it to find your size. Lay it flat and measure from the buckle to the hole you use most. That number in inches is your belt size. For example, 38 inches means a size 38 belt. It’s an easy way to get the right leather belt sizes for men without measuring your body.

3. Use the Belt Hole Rule

Most belts come with five holes, spaced about 1 inch apart. Your belt should fit comfortably on the middle hole. This gives you flexibility to adjust tighter or looser depending on the day, the pants, or your position (standing or sitting).

If you frequently use the first or last hole, the belt size is likely incorrect. A good fit means the buckle fastens at the center hole with two holes left on each side.

4. Think About Belt Width

While width doesn’t directly affect the length, it does play a role in how the belt works with your clothes.

• For dress pants, opt for a narrow belt (approximately 1 to 1.25 inches wide).
  For jeans or casual wear, a wider belt (1.5 to 1.75 inches) is generally more suitable.

Always check the width of the belt loops on your pants. A belt that’s too wide won’t fit, and one that’s too slim may not provide proper support.

5. Understand Inches vs. Centimetres

Some belts, mainly those imported from Europe, are measured in centimeters rather than inches. In Canada, you’ll see both options depending on the brand.

To convert inches to centimetres, multiply by 2.54. For example:

• A 36-inch belt = 91.4 cm

If a belt is listed as 90 cm, that’s approximately 35.4 inches. Always double-check the unit of measurement before making a purchase. This will help you avoid returns and size confusion.

6. Try Belts On If Possible

In-store shopping allows you to try on belts before making a purchase. Wear pants that you usually wear a belt with, and loop the belt through. Fasten it on the middle hole and see how it feels.

• Does it feel snug but not tight?
• Does the end of the belt sit just past the first belt loop?
• Can you sit and move around comfortably?

If the answer to all three is yes, then the size is right.

For those buying online, use this same process at home once the belt arrives. Ensure the retailer has a fair return or exchange policy in place in case the size isn’t perfect.

7. Leather Will Stretch Slightly Over Time

Leather is a natural material that may stretch slightly with regular use. That’s normal.

If you’re between sizes—for example, unsure whether to choose a 36 or 38—it’s usually better to opt for the smaller size, especially for high-quality, thick belts. This helps the belt maintain shape and prevents sagging over time.

Just make sure you’re still able to fasten the belt on the middle hole when you first buy it.

Bottom Line

A good leather belt should fit well, feel comfortable, and last for years to come. The key to all of this is getting the size right from the start. Don’t guess—use a tape measure, refer to a belt you already own, or rely on a simple size-up rule from your pant size.

For Canadian shoppers, it’s also helpful to know how to convert between inches and centimetres and understand that belt sizing follows a different rule than pants.

If you’re looking for quality belts that are designed to fit right and built to last, NAB Leather offers handcrafted leather belts made for real-world use. Their sizing, materials, and designs are made to suit both daily and dress needs, so you don’t have to guess when it comes to fit.