Levi's 501 Original Fit Jeans vs Levi's 501 Original Stretch Jeans

Both are Levi's 501 Originals with the same straight fit, button fly and five-pocket build. The 501-0115 is rigid non-stretch denim in a dark rinse; the 501 Original Stretch 005013673 uses stretch fabric in a mid-blue wash. Buy the rigid pair if you want the classic 501 that molds to you and fades with wear; buy the stretch pair if you want comfort from day one and a softer, more casual look. Owners of rigid 501s praise the durability and the way they break in, but many find the first weeks stiff; stretch owners like the give but note it can bag at the knees over time.

• Choose the 501-0115 if you want the traditional rigid 501 that breaks in to your body and holds a sharp dark-rinse look.
• Choose the 501 Original Stretch if you want the 501 silhouette with give through the seat and thigh and a softer everyday feel.