The more common pre-shrunk versions come in a myriad of washes and finishes, each with that same iconic Levi’s denim which continues to be among the highest quality for the price. Add to that the brand’s perfect straight fit jeans, the iconic 501, and you’ve got menswear gold. For more, check out our breakdown of the best Levi’s jeans by the numbers.
Best Cheap Selvedge Denim Jeans: Uniqlo Selvedge Jeans
Sizes: 27- 34 | Material: 100% cotton | Fly: Zip | Colors: Indigo
Asking for raw selvedge Japanese denim for under $100 is laughable. But Uniqlo takes the request seriously and has been the one consistent retailer of such ludicrous fantasies. Selvedge denim takes longer to make and is much less common then the regular stuff. Since selvedge denim is woven on looms that leave a densely-woven, non-fraying self edge (that tell-tale stripe on the outer leg seam, usually white and red, and flexed with an upturned cuff), the result is a beautiful, rarer product, the kind of denim that fade-chashing nerds drool over. Also? It’s more expensive.
Uniqlo’s selvedge straight-leg jeans are mid-weight, a little crispy with a bit of a sheen, and unlike its longtime running slim-fit version, is made sans stretch. We’ve been a big fan of Uniqlo’s selvedge denim for years, and have long awaited a wider, non-slim fit. These straight-fit joints have answered our prayers.
Best Cheap Athletic-Fit Jeans: Lee Relaxed Fit Straight Leg Jean Pants
Sizes: 26×32 – 42×36 | Rise: Mid | Leg opening: 17″ | Material: 100% cotton | Fabric Weight: 10-13.5 ounces | Fly: Zipper | Colors: Varies
For those riding the menswear Dad Wave™ or for those with thick-thighed bodies, get yourself a pair of Lees. The fabric is hardy, the fit is boxy and perfect for athletic builds, and the wash is blissfully uniform, without any crazy distressing. Most important, they’ll only set you back $30. Because we all know affordability is the sine qua non of a great dad jean.
Best Cheap Baggy Jeans: Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra Baggy Jeans
Sizes: 28×28 – 40×34 | Material: 100% cotton | Fly: Zip | Colors: 11 washes
