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Best Overall
Levi’s 501 Original Fit Men’s Jeans
Now 30% Off
Credit: Eli SchmidtProsHuge range of sizing and washes availableFit that will never go out of styleRelaxed through the thigh for more comfortConsRise is a little high for some peopleCall it the blueprint, the original, the one that started it all—Levi’s 501 is the jean every other pair takes notes from. Trends come and go, but the 501’s straight leg, easy fit through the hip and thigh, and subtle taper below the knee make it basically timeless.
You get five different inseams to choose from, which is rare for jeans at this price. So whether you’re tall, short, or somewhere in between, you don’t need to mess with a tailor. You also get to pick your level of stretch: no stretch, low stretch, or high stretch. We tested all three and found that low stretch hits the sweet spot; it still feels like true denim but gives you enough flex to move around without any stiffness. That said, none of the options felt uncomfortable. Even the no-stretch version broke in nicely after a few wears, and the high-stretch ones felt more laid-back without losing shape, but just a tad less breathable.
We wore them for everything from office days to weekend errands, and the fit always held up. It was never too baggy, never too tight, even after multiple cycles. The button fly took a minute to get used to, but it adds to that vintage feel. Out of all the washes we tried, the medium stonewash was the standout. It’s soft straight out of the box, with just the right amount of fading. We found it worked with pretty much anything: oxfords, hoodies, boots, sneakers, you name it.
They’re as low maintenance as jeans get. You just wear them, wash them cold when needed, and hang dry. We’ve machine dried ours before and only saw minimal shrinkage, but we’d still recommend air drying to keep the fit where it’s at.
Read More: How to Wash Your Jeans
Fabric100% cottonFitStraight, slight taperWaist Size27-44Inseam29-40Denim TypeMedium washBest Athletic Fit
Abercrombie Athletic Slim Jean
Now 38% Off
Credit: Eli SchmidtProsTailored for athletic buildsSuperior stretch fabric that moves with youComes in light to dark washesConsMight be too snug if you’re not built athleticOur guys with bigger hips and thighs have struggled to find jeans that work for them. Fortunately, men’s clothing brands like Abercrombie have embraced the “athletic fit” movement, which accommodates men who don’t skip leg day. We came across this pair of dungarees and were really impressed: they gave space where needed to support lifters, runners, and guys who have built substantial muscle.
There’s plenty of room in the seat and thigh, so you’re not getting pinched when you sit, squat, or move around. But there’s also a clean taper from the knee down that keeps the silhouette sharp. You still look tailored, not shrink-wrapped. That balance is hard to find in athletic jeans, which can often be either way too tight or balloon-y. Abercrombie hit the mark here.
The fabric is another highlight. It’s a cotton-polyester blend with a touch of elastane, which gives it that perfect amount of give. The elastane helps the jeans flex with your movement, so bending down, getting in and out of a car, or sitting at a desk all day doesn’t feel restrictive. Compared to jeans that are 100% cotton or only have elastane without the poly blend, these feel more resilient. They stretch when needed but snap back into shape without sagging out by the end of the day. That poly infusion also gives them a lightweight, breathable feel that surprised us. They look sturdy but don’t feel heavy or stiff, even after a full day of wear.
Fabric94% cotton, 4% polyester, 2% elastaneFitAthleticWaist Size28-40Inseam28-43Denim TypeWashedAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Best Travel Jean
Bonobos Travel Jeans
ProsHuge range of waist sizes, colors and fit optionsVery soft and stretchyGarment dyed for that lived-in lookConsNot durable for jeansThis pair of travel jeans from Bonobos is the most flexible jean I’ve tested. Honestly, they wear more like athletic pants than traditional denim. The brand uses a stretch cotton blend with a generous dose of elastane, which gives you full range of motion to handle all kinds of airport chaos: twisting and turning through TSA, sprinting to your gate, or squeezing into a tight middle seat.
I usually fly in sweatpants because I can’t stand feeling restricted on long flights, but these jeans completely changed that. On a 13-hour flight back from Japan, I stayed comfortable the entire time. No pinching, no stiffness, and I wasn’t overheating, either. The fabric is super breathable and lightweight, so even during hot layovers and road trips, I didn’t feel like I was melting.
Another big win: they hold their shape. A lot of high-stretch jeans get that saggy, baggy-knee look after a few hours, but not these. I’ve worn and washed them multiple times, and they still bounce back. And despite the gym-pant-level flexibility, they still look like real jeans; clean, tailored, and polished.
They’re also extremely low-maintenance. I packed them tightly into a carry-on for hours, pulled them out, and didn’t see a single crease. That wrinkle resistance is impressive. They looked crisp and ready to wear, no steamer or iron needed. And in true Bonobos fashion: they come in more waist sizes and fits than just about any brand we’ve tested, so no matter your build, you’ll find a version that works for you.
Fabric94% Cotton, 4% PBT, 2% ElastaneFitTailored, Slim Taper, Slim, Athletic, StraightWaist Size28-42Inseam28-34Denim TypeFive pocket twillBest Tailored Fit Jeans
Brooks Brothers Slim Fit Denim Jeans
ProsFlattering fitLooks great, especially dressed upCan transition from professional to casual settingsConsVery subtle stretch compared to othersBrooks Brothers may be known for Oxford shirts and chinos, but our fashion editors were thoroughly impressed by the Americana brand’s denim. Its slim fit pair is made with premium, mid-weight denim that’s super robust, but soft enough to wear for hours, with a hint of spandex for extra mobility. The fit is where the pair truly shine—a precise, tailored cut that contours through the hips and thighs for a clean silhouette without being super tight. Although the jeans fit closer to the body, you don’t feel like you’re suffocating.
Every stitch is strategically placed, reflecting Brooks Brothers’ heritage in classic menswear while still feeling fresh and contemporary. Style-wise, these jeans bridge the gap between smart-casual and laid-back cool, so we’ve worn them to a baseball game as well as an office meeting. These jeans are a dream for a lean to moderately athletic build, though if you have a muscular lower body, you might want to size up.
Fabric99% cotton, 1% SpandexFitSlimWaist Size28-38Inseam30-34Denim TypeWashedAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Best Selvedge Jean
Citizens of Humanity x Billy Reid Adler Jean
ProsPremium quality denim that feels rich and denseProvides plenty of flex and mobilityMade in the USAConsOnly comes in 32″ inseamBilly Reid teamed up with denim specialists Citizens of Humanity to create a jean that blends the former’s laid-back refinement with latter’s impeccable quality. The first thing that struck our tester when he tried this jean on was the rich, dense feel of the denim. It is 100% cotton but still provided plenty of flex and mobility, thanks to a fit that is just roomy enough.
The Adler was one of the most expensive jeans we tested, but it absolutely justified the cost. This is an investment piece that can last for decades of continuous wear with a little TLC. Think of it like splurging on a nice pair of boots, with pretty much the same price range, lifespan, and versatility.
Fabric98% cotton, 2% polyurethaneFitSlimWaist Size30-40Inseam32.5Denim TypeLight washBest Budget Jean
Amazon Essentials Slim-Fit Jeans
ProsVery affordableStretchy fabricComes in tons of washesIf affordability is your top priority, you can’t beat the Amazon Essential jeans. It has a slim fit that is comfortable and not at all tight. We liked that the balance of stretch felt just right in our testing. It does everything you need from a pair of jeans at an unbeatable price.
At this price, you’re going to have to sacrifice a few details and the biggest thing that stood out in our testing was the hardware. The zipper is a little flimsy and jammed a few times, plus the rivets and waist button didn’t feel as hard and durable as we expect from jeans.
Fabric99% cotton, 1% elastaneFitSlimWaist Size28-42Inseam28-43Denim TypeWashedAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Best White Jean
Ralph Lauren Hampton Relaxed Straight Stretch Jean
ProsBright white colorCan dress up with formalwearRelaxed fit through the seat and thighOur style editors did some research and it turns out that there is no rule saying you can only wear white denim during the summer. Every guy could use a pair in their wardrobe, and make good use of it all year around. The best option we found is this pair from Ralph Lauren that has a pearly white texture, while providing the rugged comfort of a pair of jeans. It’s a straight fit but not too loose, and there was just a hint of stretch for a little boost in comfort.
If you haven’t worn white denim in the past because you’re just not sure how to style it, the trick is to think of something you already know how to work with and just switch this jean in. If you wear chinos in any shade of khaki or brown, a pair of white jeans will give an edgier look without having to change anything else about the outfit. You get the opposite effect when it comes to bluejeans, where swapping them for white elevates the feel of, what is otherwise, the same outfit.
Fabric98% cotton, 2% elastaneFitStraightWaist Size28-42Inseam30-34Denim TypeWhiteBest Straight-fit Jean
Buck Mason Ford Standard Jean
ProsComplimentary hemming offered Made with a hint of stretch for comfortTapered at the leg for a streamlined fitFeel sturdy, but doesn’t require annoying break-in periodConsBack pockets sit a little lowI put on the Ford Standard Jeans from Buck Mason, and let me tell you—it’s strong. I mean, these jeans are tough as they come, built to last, and look damn good doing it. This denim is sourced from Japan’s Kaihara mills, which is known for blending traditional shuttle loom techniques with modern innovation. In other words, this fabric has that rich, textured character you expect from premium Japanese denim, but with a level of consistency that ensures long-term durability. At 14 oz, these jeans sit in that sweet spot—not too heavy, not too light—so it feels sturdy but won’t take forever to break in.
And unlike classic 100% cotton, this pair has a hint of stretch that lets me move freely from the jump. The mid-rise sits perfectly at my waist and I noticed the cut is straight through the thighs, giving ample room to breathe and take big, confident strides. If you’ve got some serious quads, that’s not a problem. These jeans can handle your muscles without compromising your style. It tapers neatly down below the knee, laying right on your sneakers for a clean, sharp finish. Whether I’m keeping it casual with a tee or dressing it up with a crisp button-down and blazer, it has that versatile edge to switch things up.
Fabric98% cotton, 2% spandexFitStraightWaist size28-38Inseam33.5, free hem offeredDenim typeSingle wash stretchAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Best Straight Leg
AG Everett
ProsHigh quality fabric and constructionSoft, aged feelRelaxed in the seatConsOnly comes in 33″ inseamIf you’re not sure what style of denim works best for your body, the Everett is a perfectly balanced fit that you can’t go wrong with. AG nailed that “straight but not too-loose” look which our style editors think best compliments most guys’ physiques. It felt comfortably relaxed in the seat, with a gentle tape in the legs that never got too tight.
Our style editors were impressed with the overall quality of AG’s jeans. The denim had that sturdy feel to it that we were looking for. All of the stitching was clean and the hardware felt tough and reliable. This is definitely a pair of jeans that will last a long time.
Fabric98% cotton, 2% elastaneFitStraightWaist Size28-44Inseam33Denim TypeLight washBest Black Jean
Lee Men’s Legendary Slim Straight Jean
ProsWide range of waist sizesAdorned with legendary hardware and logo patchSignature back pocket sitichingConsBack pockets sit pretty lowThe fit of a black jean is crucial to pulling off dressed up fit, and that is exactly what Lee did here. For starters, I’m 5’8 and the slim-straight cut elongates my profile, giving a sleek, balanced silhouette. This pair is tailored to hug my frame just right without feeling like I squeezed into skinny jeans. When wearing them out on multiple occasions, I still felt like I had enough room to move, thanks to the comforting stretch fabric.
Adorned with branded hardware and the leather logo patch, the aesthetic feels like a nod to the past, while the modern cut still keeps you looking fresh. In terms of style, this pair is the ultimate wardrobe chameleon, working in both casual and semi-dressy settings. It looked just as great with a simple tee and sneakers at a backyard BBQ, as it did with a sport coat and dress shoes at a theater show.
Fabric99% preferred cotton, 1% spandexFitStraightWaist Size28-42Inseam29-36Denim TypeBlackAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Best Outdoor Jeans
Eddie Bauer Voyager Flex 2.0 Slim Fit Jeans
ProsComfortable inner waistbandLight, flexible fabricOutseam has reflective tape for nighttime visbilityTwo-way stretchConsDoesn’t have a denim feelAt first glance, the Voyager Flex 2.0 looks like a standard pair of jeans. But we came across a few useful little features that make it specially designed for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and landscaping. We found that the blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex offered athletic level performance in both flexibility, and moisture and temperature control. The inner waistband is soft and stretchy, which eliminated cutting around the waist.
The coolest detail, which we have never even heard of before, is the reflective leg liner. Along the outseam, where you would normally see selvedge or stitching detail, there are two strips of reflective tape. This can come in handy when you’re working or hiking at night, you can fold it up for a bit of enhanced visibility.
FabricCotton, polyester, and spandexFitStraightWaist Size30-42Inseam30-34Denim TypeFaded indigoBest Dark Wash Jean
Mavi Steve Athletic Fit Jeans
ProsGreat indigo colorPlenty of stretchFabric is extra smooth and has solid weight to itConsRise is a little highIndigo is the dye that makes most jeans blue. When a brand uses a really rich indigo, like Mavi did here, you get a beautiful range from deep, dark navy and light sky blue. The lighter fades gradually show up and get more pronounced with each wear in a jean like this.
Mavi nailed the modern athletic fit in this jean, providing plenty of room in the hip and thigh, along with a taper in the lower leg that looks clean and stylish. This fit is assisted by a blend of cotton, tencel, polyester, and elastane that is lightweight and stretchy. It was one of the most comfortable jeans for our testers with big quads.
Fabric44% cotton, 43% tencel, 13% polyester, 1% elastaneFitAthleticWaist Size30-42Inseam30-34Denim TypeDark washAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Other Jeans to Consider
Best with Stretch
Uniqlo Stretch Selvedge Slim Jeans
ProsSuper affordable (under $50)No break-in periodDon’t stack at the ankleConsNot ideal if you want something more relaxedMost selvedge denim is rigid and stiff, but that’s not the case with this pair from Uniqlo. Since the cotton fabric blend is infused with a hint of spandex, it’s wearable out of the gate. We didn’t go through an annoying break-in period, so we could actually sit down, bike to the bodega, or bend down low without cutting off circulation. The fit is dialed in: slim, but not painted on. It’s tapered in all the right places so you get that clean, tailored silhouette without feeling like you borrowed your little cousin’s pants. And they’re not stacking weird at the ankle or drowning your sneakers; these sit just right, especially cuffed.
It’s not just any selvedge; this is Japanese selvedge denim from Kaihara Mills: a well-known denim mill famed for its high-quality fabrics and innovative production techniques, particularly in indigo dyeing. You usually see selvedge on $200+ jeans, but Uniqlo is offering heritage-level fabric, solid construction, and wear-anywhere stretch comfort for under $60. That combo doesn’t really exist elsewhere.
Fabric98% cotton, 2% spandexFitSlimWaist Size27-42Inseam32-34Denim TypeDark washAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Most Premium
A.P.C. New Standard Straight Fit Jeans
ProsContrast stitchingFits neatly over the thighHigh-quality denimConsStiff at first, but molds to your body over timeA.P.C. played a major role in popularizing the raw denim aesthetic and its New Standard Jeans aren’t like anything off-the-rack. They’re stiff as hell out of the box, but that’s the whole point: the brand made this jean to mold to your body over time, developing a unique patina with each wear. After a few weeks (maybe a couple months) of wear, this pair breaks in like a leather jacket and starts to feel like a second skin. The fit delivers a slimmer straight-leg, which doesn’t cross over into baggy territory. It hits that sweet spot that works whether you’re lacing up boots, rocking sneakers, or going full minimal-core with a Derby shoe.
Unlike trendy jeans that fall apart or go out of style in a season, this pair has so much style that I’ve kept it in rotation year-round. Also, this caliber of Japanese selvage is heavier than others I’ve tested, but doesn’t take a hit in the comfort department. It’s still very soft on the skin and doesn’t feel like I’m going to overheat. The fabric is also super clean, pre-shrunk, and woven tight. Most brands charge north of $300 for this kind of material, but A.P.C. sits just below that figure. Sure, dropping $270 on jeans might still sound absurd if you’re used to $60 pairs, but you’re paying for longevity, quality craftsmanship, and that low-key flex that fashion people instantly recognize.
FabricCottonFitStraightWaist Size28-36Inseam30-38Denim TypeIndigoBest Relaxed-Fit
Madewell The 1991 Straight-Leg Jean
ProsSoftens and molds to your body for custom feelGreat for stockier buildsHold structure over timeMadewell’s 1991 Straight-Leg denim nails what a relaxed-fit jean should be: it’s roomy in the right places, clean in the leg, and actually gets better the more you wear it. Made with 100% cotton, this is true rigid denim: no stretch, no spandex, no shortcuts. But it doesn’t cancel comfort or style. It starts off structured like denim used to be, and then slowly softens and molds to your body, giving you a custom feel over time that stretch jeans just can’t match.
The relaxed fit through the hip and thigh makes it ideal for guys who want breathing room without looking sloppy. Whether you’ve got a stockier build, hit leg day regularly, or just prefer not to feel constricted by your pants, this cut gives you space without sacrificing style. It’s generous up top, but the straight leg keeps it looking balanced and intentional, not baggy. It’s the kind of silhouette that works just as well with sneakers and a hoodie as it does with boots and a button-down.
In testing, we found this pair especially useful for days when you’re on your feet a lot or moving around a lot; running errands, commuting, or hanging out on weekends. The cotton wears in beautifully too, developing natural fades and creases that give it character the more you live in them. And unlike stretch jeans that tend to lose their shape over time, this pair holds its structure, aging like a good pair of boots.
Fabric100% cottonFitRelaxedWaist Size28-40Inseam30-34Denim TypeLight blueAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
How to Find the Best Fit for You in Men’s JeansThe rule of thumb for finding the best fit in jeans for men, is that men’s jeans should fit perfectly right below the waist, have enough ease to sit comfortably, and hug all of the right curves. Below is a breakdown of the main fits for jeans to guide you through.
Classic/StraightThis everyman’s jean is just snug enough to show off your sculpted lower half, but not so much that you’ll look like a beanpole since it offers enough room through the seat, thigh, and leg. Taller guys should pick straight-leg cuts in a medium rise to maintain proper proportions. Meanwhile, most thinner guys should go with a straight-leg, low-rise fit to ensure that the style sits comfortably on your hips and leaves a few extra inches of legroom.
RelaxedThese laid-back slacks are cut fuller from the thigh to the hem, allowing ample legroom for maximum comfort. A popular ’90s trend, this cut is back in style and is especially flattering for taller and stockier guys. After all, relaxed-fit jeans cut bigger guys some slack, creating interior real estate so legs can flex and move.
SlimUsually tapered below the knee, slim fit closely follows the contours of the body without being overly tight. In jeans, a slim fit is a tailored cut that offers a more fitted appearance through the thighs, knees, and calves. This style provides a modern and streamlined silhouette, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a well-fitting yet comfortable option.
AthleticFor men with muscular thighs, athletic-fit jeans are designed to accommodate your strapping quads while still accentuating your calves—without forcing you to cut back on leg days. Loose and relaxed above the knee, athletic-fit jeans offer more room at the thigh and hip areas to do justice to your thick quads; below the knee, they can sport a straight or even tapered leg to lend a more tailored fit.
How to Style Men’s JeansAs the most versatile article of clothing a man can own, jeans have the ability to traverse many different types of formality. Given that denim originates from workwear, it inherently embodies a casual nature. That’s why I suggest throwing in some contrast, like rocking penny loafers with laid-back tailoring.
For a more laid-back look, pair your jeans with a well-fitted tee and canvas or leather sneakers. But when aiming for a smarter appearance, combining dark wash jeans with a crisp button-down shirt or sweater with a pair of boots is a great idea as well.
On the other hand, for a business casual look, throw on a pair of suede loafers with dark denim, an oxford button down, and timeless accessories. Take those same jeans and style your denim with a pair of low-top sneakers like common projects white sneakers, or a heavyweight crewneck sweatshirt and you’ve got a great weekend look for fall.
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As the Style and Commerce Editor for Men’s Health, Joseph covers all-things fashion and grooming. Previously, Cheatham was a commerce editor for Spy, and he has written for Travel + Leisure.
Christian is the deputy commerce editor at Men’s Health and Women’s Health, where he oversees shopping content for both brands. He started his magazine career as an accessories assistant at Vogue, and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he’s not online shopping, you can find him on long walks with his two corgis.
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