Just because you're a size 38 doesn't mean you're 38 inches tall. learned the hard way today. I ordered 38 because my pants are that size. Put a belt in and thought it was the wrong size. nope The strap was medium sized, actually fitting 36 to 40 inches. Unfortunately, my thick pants might have fit a size 38, but I think the pants stretched with my stomach. I've been losing weight for a few months now so this belt will be great for me soon. In the meantime I have to get back on the bike.