I'm around 35" and my small fits me fine. But individual body shape will be a factor.
I spoke with Mark the other day about devising a method of measuring a person's body in order to determine size.
IMO, for saddles and slings, the waist isn't what we should measure. Its out butt that needs to fit, not our waist.
I measured around my butt to my hip pointers...basically square with the front of my hips. That measures 32" on me. My small Recon fits my size ass.
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I'm also a 35" waist, and my build is "average to trim". For what it's worth, my woman says that I have an "average" size butt. Sizing was a concern for me. I was concerned that in New England, I go from very lightweight early-season clothes to very heavyweight late-season clothes, so I asked Mark Cama at Treehopper what he recommended for me. He recommended the "Regular" size RECON sling, which I suppose is the "medium" now that he's making small and large sizes too.
"At a 35 inch waist you’ll be good to go with the regular size...with or without heavy hunting clothes". - Mark Cama
He's right. I find that it's
slightly on the loose side with just a pair of jeans, but when I have long johns, pants, and bibs on, the fit isn't loose, nor is it tight.
@Allegheny Tom is right ... the best size is going to be very dependent on body type, size, and shape. If you're not sure about sizing, just ask Mark Cama for his recommendation. If you're not happy with the fit, you can always return it for an exchange or a refund. As his website says: "Give it a try and if you’re not completely satisfied, ship it back for a full refund of the purchase price."
BTW, I agree with all of the comments in this thread that tout the advantages of the RECON sling. The ability to shift the two panels independently to get good support for your butt as well as for your lower back (simultaneously), gives me the initial impression that I will like it better than my new Tethrd Phantom, but hang-time will tell.
@Ontariofarmer is right that the comfort, quality, and price make the RECON a no brainer decision for the price conscious saddle buyer.
I too await Tethrd's release of the Eberhart Signature Saddle (ESS) ... they may offer some slick new features in the ESS design, and I may give it a try if they do. (Depends how pricey it is!) The last email I got from John Eberhart indicated that the product release of the ESS would be in June, but that was before this whole pandemic disruption happened to the economy, so I wouldn't be surprised if the release date changes. One thing is for sure, though - it will be difficult to match the combination of build quality and price offered by the Treehopper RECON.