Brand Spotlight: Levi's 501 - The Only Jeans You Need

Some things don't need improvement. The 501 is one of them.

150 Years of Getting It Right

When Levi Strauss patented the riveted denim pant in 1873, he wasn't thinking about fashion. He was thinking about miners who needed pants that wouldn't fall apart. That focus on function over form is exactly why the 501 still works today.

The Specs That Matter

• Fit: Straight leg, sits at waist
• Rise: Regular (not too high, not too low)
• Button fly: Slower to put on, but never breaks
• Weight: 12.5 oz denim - heavy enough to last, light enough to move

Why Vintage 501s Are Better

Modern 501s are good. Vintage 501s are better. Here's why:

The Denim

Pre-1980s 501s used selvedge denim woven on shuttle looms. Denser, more durable, and they fade beautifully over time.

The Construction

Older pairs were made in the USA with chain-stitch hems and reinforced stress points. Built to work, not to sell.

The Character

A pair of 501s that's been worn and washed for years has a character that new jeans can't replicate. The fades tell a story.

Finding Your Pair

At Urban Refit, we source vintage and pre-owned 501s in various conditions:

• Like New: Minimal wear, deep indigo
• Excellent: Light fading, broken in
• Good: Character fades, soft hand feel

Size Guide

Vintage Levi's run different from modern. Here's the rule: buy your actual waist size. A 32" waist means a 32" jean. None of this vanity sizing nonsense.

The Investment

A quality pair of vintage 501s will outlast anything you can buy new today. Period.