Levi's 511 Slim Performance Cool Jeans vs Levi's 511 Slim Fit Jean

Both are the same 511 Slim cut: below the waist, narrow through seat and thigh, slim leg with a bit of stretch from the 1% elastane. The Performance Cool pair adds Levi's moisture-wicking, breathable fabric, which owners of hot-weather 511s tend to praise; the standard pair is the plain cotton-blend denim that has made the 511 a long-running staple. Buy the Performance Cool for warm climates or active days, and the standard 511 for a straightforward everyday jean in a classic dark wash.

• Choose the Levi's 511 Performance Cool if you run hot, commute or work outdoors, or want a jean that wicks moisture and feels lighter in summer.
• Choose the standard Levi's 511 Slim if you want the plain cotton-elastane 511 in a clean dark wash and don't need cooling fabric.