Just a word of warning, this is my first athletic belt I have ever purchased. I've been tossing and turning between this belt and more expensive ones and am very happy with my purchase. It is rigid and does not pull the pants together under stress. In terms of size, I have a 32 inch waist. When I measure my jeans I'm about 33/34. I chose a large belt and it fits perfectly. The only downside I have, which is why I didn't give it 5 stars, is its width. It is advertised as a 1.5" wide strap, but it is slightly wider and my 1.5" Safariland mag pouches will not fit.