This is the funniest thing. And I will do everything in my power to make it read as few hints as possible. This would be the second time I have purchased a belt through Amazon; and I really wish I had just planned the "objects closer than they seem" syndrome. My current waistline for the last two calendar years is 34-36 max. (- and this time after my mistake with the 38 belt. I went for 40)! I even googled something on Amazon to be sure. And everyone said: DO 40! but the first loop of different jeans hardly passes. My advice to everyone is don't buy a belt in person. walk more. Add min. 8-10 inches to your waist. So in my case 42-44 va 40. I plan to get more in the future but this will work for my outdoor work and for work. So no complaints about the belt - quite adequate for its size. Please note that there are various fashionable belt length options. All my life I like it when the tape goes 1/3 of the way after the first loop. so extra 3-5 inches. Short version - 40 inch fits US 34-36 waist. But it's tighter than expected.