Nudie Jeans is a denim brand that was founded in 2001 and based in Gothenburg, Sweden. They’re known for their amazing fades, free repairs and focus on sustainability.
I had been eyeing the Lean Dean Dry Japan Selvage jeans for quite some time now. However, it was the higher price point that kept me back. Initially this lead me to less expensive jeans, but here’s why I wish I pulled the trigger from the get…
The Details
Straight from Nudie, here are the specs:
Organic cotton
13 oz Japanese stretch selvedge
Orange threads
Antique silver trims
Zip Fly
Slim tapered fit with slim leg opening
The Fit
Nudie Jeans has over 10 different styles of fits, which range from loose to tight. This particular fit is called ‘Lean Dean’. They’re not super tight, but have a slim contour that tapers from the thigh all the way down to a smaller leg opening. If you’re looking for something on the slim side with a tapered fit, definitely try on the Lean Dean style.
The jeans are made up of a 13 oz Japanese stretch selvedge. 98% cotton and 2% stretch to be exact. The first day they were slightly stiff, but nothing crazy. The 2% stretch seemed to help with the initial break in especially jumping on the Triumph Scrambler. Each time I wear them they feel better and start to take shape.
Sizing
I had the opportunity to try on a few sizes. Typically I wear a 32 waist but, knowing the dry denim would be stiff and eventually loosen up, I went one size down. If possible try on a few pairs and go with the smallest you can tolerate, because they will stretch out.
Concerns
The only issue I’ve had is with the front pockets being too short. Most of my other jeans have had deeper pockets. My phone (iPhone XR) doesn’t completely fit into them. A small portion of the phone is exposed unless I push it towards my inner thigh. In which case it feels like the phone is going to bend when lifting my leg up for higher steps or stairs. Although, I think this is something that will get better during the break in period.
thoughts
Overall, I’m impressed. From the attention to detail in the stitching to the overall fit. This was exactly what I was looking for… A great fitting, high quality pair of denim jeans that are built for the long haul.
I might have just found my new favorite pair of jeans.
