How much do the Levi's 501 Shrink-To-Fit jeans shrink?

Expect roughly one inch of shrinkage in the waist and two to three inches in length after the first soak or wash. Buy a size up in the waist and length to land on your finished fit.

Do I need to soak them before wearing?

Yes. Levi's recommends soaking or washing the raw denim before regular wear so the shrinkage happens up front and the fit settles. Skipping it means the jeans will shrink later, after you have worn them.

How do these compare with pre-washed 501 Original jeans?

Same straight-leg, button-fly cut, but the shrink-to-fit denim is rigid and unsanforized, so it molds to you and fades harder. Pre-washed 501s are soft from day one but stretch out faster.

Will the black dye rub off?

Raw black denim can crock, meaning dye transfers onto light fabrics, shoes and upholstery in the first weeks. Wash the jeans before wearing and avoid light-colored seats until the dye settles.

What is the leg opening and rise like?

The 501 is a straight leg with a regular, normal waist and a mid rise, sitting at the natural waist. The leg stays straight from thigh to hem rather than tapering.

Are these good for everyday wear?

Once broken in, yes. The rigid denim softens with wear and holds its shape, but expect a stiff first few weeks and a fit that changes after the first wash.