Arc'teryx Pants Sizing Guide: How to Get the Right Fit
Arc'teryx pants sizing can be confusing — especially because they use their own sizing system that's different from most brands.
But once you understand how it works, it's actually pretty straightforward. And like their jackets, Arc'teryx pants sizing is consistent across products.
In this guide, I'll break down everything you need to know about Arc'teryx pants sizing.
The Short Answer
Arc'teryx pants use waist size (in inches) and inseam length (Regular, Long, Short). To find your size:
- 1Measure your waist
- 2Choose your inseam length (R = Regular, L = Long, S = Short)
- 3Check the size chart for the specific product
Understanding Arc'teryx Pants Sizing
Unlike some brands that use S/M/L for pants, Arc'teryx uses numerical waist sizes (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, etc.) with letter inseam lengths.
Waist Sizes
| Arc'teryx Size | Waist Measurement |
|---|---|
| 28 | 28-29" |
| 30 | 30-31" |
| 32 | 32-33" |
| 34 | 34-35" |
| 36 | 36-37" |
| 38 | 38-39" |
Inseam Lengths
| Code | Length | Recommended Height |
|---|---|---|
| S (Short) | 30" inseam | Under 5'7" |
| R (Regular) | 32" inseam | 5'7"-6'0" |
| L (Long) | 34" inseam | Over 6'0" |
Example: If you have a 32" waist and are 5'10", you'd be a 32R.
How to Measure Yourself
Waist
- •Measure around your natural waistline (above your belly button)
- •Don't measure where your pants sit — measure your actual waist
- •Keep the tape snug but not tight
Inseam
- •Measure from the top of your inner thigh to your ankle
- •Or: measure the inseam of a pair of pants that fit you well
Fit Types for Pants
Arc'teryx pants come in different fit types, just like their jackets:
Regular Fit
- •Most common
- •Room for layering (base layer underneath)
- •Comfortable for all-day wear
- •Examples: Gamma LT Pants, Lefroy Pants
Buy your normal size.
Athletic Fit
- •Trim, close-to-body cut
- •Less room for layering
- •Designed for technical activities
- •Examples: Alpha SL Pants, some climbing pants
Size up if you're between sizes or want to layer.
Relaxed Fit
- •Roomier cut
- •Extra room for movement and layering
- •Examples: some casual pants
You might be able to size down.
Common Pants Sizing Questions
"Do Arc'teryx pants run small?"
No. Arc'teryx pants are true to size. If you normally wear a 32" waist, get a 32.
"What inseam should I get?"
- •Under 5'7": Short (S)
- •5'7" to 6'0": Regular (R)
- •Over 6'0": Long (L)
If you're right on the border (e.g., 5'7"), go with Regular. You can always hem them if they're too long.
"Should I size up for winter layering?"
Yes, consider sizing up if you plan on wearing thick base layers underneath your pants. A base layer + Regular Fit pants in your normal size should work, but if you want to wear heavy base layers, you might need to size up.
"Are Arc'teryx pants sized differently for men and women?"
Yes. Men's and women's pants have different cuts and sizing. Make sure you're looking at the right size chart.
Tips for Outlet Shopping
- 1Know your measurements — waist and inseam
- 2Check the size chart for the specific product
- 3Popular waist sizes (32, 34) sell out fast — grab them when you see them
- 4Long inseams are rarer in the outlet — if you see your size, grab it
- 5Returns are free from the official outlet
Final Verdict
Arc'teryx pants sizing is straightforward once you understand the system. Measure your waist, choose your inseam, and buy with confidence.
The sizing is consistent across products — so once you know your size in one pair of Arc'teryx pants, you can buy other Arc'teryx pants in the same size.
Ready to find Arc'teryx pants at outlet prices? [Browse our catalog](/brand/arcteryx) and set up a price alert — we'll notify you when your size goes on sale.