Brand
Levi's
The model owners most often point to
Levi's 501 jeans
Denim owners wear for years and patch rather than toss.
What owners say
- Many blame added stretch or elastane denim for the drop in longevity, and note the pricier Premium, Made and Crafted, or selvedge lines hold up better.
- Beyond crotch and seam blowouts, a couple of owners report the belt loops tearing off on multiple pairs.
- One longtime 501 wearer reports regular pairs lasting 10 to 15 years while recent stretch-blend pairs look ratty after about 3.
More durable picks in Apparel & Basics
-
Darn Tough
Socks with a replacement-guarantee reputation. The community default when a sock has to last.
-
Patagonia
Outdoor apparel owners cite again and again for its repair-and-guarantee reputation.
-
Carhartt
Workwear owners beat on, job after job, for years.
-
Duluth Trading
Rugged workwear with a hard-wearing reputation.
-
Smartwool
Merino socks and layers cited for holding up through long wear.
-
Pendleton
Wool blankets and shirts owners keep for years.