The Levi’s 501 Jeans Mega-Test: I Tried On 20 Different Pairs to Find the Best Ones

Summary: GQ tested 20 different pairs of Levi’s 501 jeans to find the best ones. The 501 has changed a lot since it was created in 1890. The "Original" is a great basic choice, but 100% cotton is best because stretch denim wears out fast. For a custom fit, the "Shrink-to-Fit" needs to be bought two sizes larger and washed to fit your body. Vintage lovers might like the 1947 version for its classic shape, or the 1980s version made famous by Bruce Springsteen. Avoid buying the new "Loose" fit, which just feels baggy in the wrong places.

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