I read the note explaining the size"Note: 1X does not equal XL, 2X does not equal XXL, 3X does not equal 3XL." Then read the size chart. So if you are a size 18 them order the 18 to 20 size if you are a 20 then get the 22 to 24 size. This is perfect for a bugout bag I am making. I will try it out this fall.