How to Measure Your Leg Length

Whether you are looking to buy a new bicycle, getting your pants measurements, or checking for differences in leg lengths, knowing how to measure your leg length accurately is important. The process of measuring the inseam for selecting the correct bike size differs from measuring your actual leg length to check for discrepancies between your legs. The inseam is measured from the crotch seam down to the floor, while your actual leg length is measured from the starting point of your leg to your ankle. To ensure a more precise result, it’s best to have someone assist you. If no one is available, you can measure it yourself.

Take off your shoes and wear tight-fitting clothes. This will ensure that your measurements are more accurate. You can wear socks or go barefoot.

• Cycling shorts, leggings, or tight-fitting sportswear are ideal for taking precise measurements.

Stand up straight. It’s important to stand as upright as possible, as slumping your shoulders will affect the accuracy of your measurements. Avoid hunching your back to ensure the best results.

Pick a flat object as a reference and place it between your legs. Place this item naturally between your legs at the crotch area. Do not clamp it too tightly as it will impact your posture and lead to inaccurate measurements.

• A thin, long book, a ruler, a plumb line, or a large folder can all be used as markers.
• Aside from being a reference point, this object also simulates the position and height of a bicycle saddle.

Use a tape measure to measure the distance from the floor to the top of the reference object. Take at least three measurements and average them to ensure accuracy.

• You can measure in centimeters or inches, but centimeters will provide a more accurate measurement.
• Hard case tape measures (those with an outer casing) are the most suitable. These sturdy and heavy types will help you measure more precisely on your own.
• Write down the measurement. Once noted, you can use it to compare when checking size charts for pants or bicycles.
• The inseam measurement will vary depending on the type of bike you choose. With your base measurement, you will be able to find a bike that fits the right size.
• To determine the inseam length for pants, measure from the crotch (the point where you feel comfortable sitting) to the shoe sole.

Ask someone to help you measure your leg length. Measuring your leg length accurately is quite difficult, so assistance is necessary to get the correct results.

Position yourself on a flat surface. Lie flat on your back with your spine aligned, and spread your legs apart at hip width.

Take measurements from your hip to your ankle. Find the joint between your hip and leg. This is the front of your pelvis, also known as ASIS (anterior superior iliac spine). Measure the distance from this point to your ankle joint. Repeat the process on the other leg and record the results.

Contact a doctor if there is a significant difference in the measurements. A discrepancy between your leg lengths is common as no one has perfectly symmetrical legs. However, if the difference exceeds 15 mm, it may affect your gait.

• Note: Using a tape measure to determine leg length may not always be accurate and cannot replace a medical diagnosis. If you notice a considerable difference in leg length, visit a doctor for an official evaluation.