I'm a 40 or so depending on where I wear my trou, so I figured XL should do me. I have a pair of 'Nam Tiger Stripe look-a-likes by the same maker in XL and they're perfect... a little tension on the side pulls a they're as comfy as can me... These bears on the other hand, I have to cinch the side pulls tight or I'm looking like some gang banger with my drawers at mid knee. Go figure. I'd return them for the Large, but my luck stinks so why bother. If you're toting a 40" waistline, get to the gym or take your chances with these in XL