I went against the size chart which I think is also different from hsgi here. I have a 36" waist and wear a size 38s. I bought the XL belt because I tried it on in the store. it has such a huge range of adjustment. other belts will work if you plan to always have the same waist size .the excess fully captures the velcro.hsgi is the only one who got this belt right in my opinion.mainly due to the location of the velcro and the length of these straps.