Rise of the Pant

What is rise?

The rise of a pant is the distance from the middle of the crotch seam (right between your legs) to the top of the waistband.  It could possibly be measured to the bottom of the waistband if that is specified on the size spec requirement.

   Front Rise: Measure from the crotch seam to the top of the front waistband.

   Back Rise: Similar to the front rise, measure from the crotch seam to the top of the back waistband.

The pant rise is important because it determines where your pants sit on your body, which in turn creates your perceived waistline.

When manufacturing or tailoring a pair of jeans, shorts, or any type of trouser determining the rise is one of the important measurements to consider.

Common versions include a low-rise, mid-rise, and high-rise.

   Low-rise are typically 7" to 8 ½" inches.  These styles are flattering to physically fit people (fashion model types).

   Mid-rise jeans & pants have a rise from approximately 8 ½ " - 10" inches.

   High-rise jeans: are generally anything over 10 ½ inches.  Be careful not to go too high or you will be accused of wearing mom jeans.

Note: the above mentioned measurement are not set in stone.  Also, in general when only one measurement for rise is indicated it usually is referring to the “front” rise of a pant.  When manufacturing the back rise should also be considered.

It is important to note that there are different ways to take garment measurements.  If you are working with a factory or need to convey exact measurements for a particular reason, be sure to discuss “how to measure” procedures.  It is critical that you are all using the same method to take a measurement.  If you say you want your pants manufactured with a 8” rise, you want to make sure that you are not measuring from the bottom of the waistband and your factory measuring from the top of the waistband.  It is critical that you are both using the same points of measure.

By the way, you should consider the front rise and back rise.  They are not always the same measurement.  Be sure to properly discuss points of measure (POM) and size specs.

Learn about body measurements as they pertain to fashion.  It would probably be a good idea to also learn about the various types of pants know that you understand the pant rise.

If you need help with this sort of thing, we suggest you contact a professional pattern maker to discuss.