Is 30 a short inseam?

Answered by Edward Huber

As a guy who is below the average height in America, I can definitely relate to the struggle of finding jeans with a shorter inseam. It seems like most men’s clothing stores start their sizing at 30”, which is simply too long for many of us.

The average height in America is 5’10”, but that doesn’t mean everyone falls into that range. There are plenty of us who are below that height and need jeans with a shorter inseam. And let me tell you, finding those jeans can be quite a challenge.

Most men’s jeans come with a minimum inseam length of 30”. This means that if you’re shorter than 5’10”, you’re likely going to need to get your jeans altered or hemmed. Finding a pair of jeans with an inseam below 30” at a typical men’s clothing store is like finding a needle in a haystack.

Not only is it frustrating to have to search high and low for jeans that actually fit properly, but it can also be costly to have them altered. Taking jeans to a tailor to get them hemmed is an added expense that many of us would rather avoid.

I remember when I first started shopping for jeans, I would often have to settle for a longer inseam and then spend extra money to get them altered. It was a hassle and it made me feel like my height was a burden rather than something to embrace.

I believe that clothing stores should cater to the needs of all individuals, regardless of their height. Offering a wider range of inseam lengths would not only benefit shorter guys like myself, but also those who are taller or have other unique body proportions.

Fortunately, there are some clothing brands that have recognized the need for shorter inseam lengths and have started offering more size options. Online retailers and specialty stores tend to have a better selection for those of us who need a shorter inseam.

A 30” inseam may not seem long for the average height individual, but for those of us who are below 5’10”, it is definitely considered a longer length. The struggle to find jeans with a shorter inseam is real, and it’s time for clothing stores to recognize and address the needs of shorter guys in their sizing options.