For Chris, a well-traveled guy who once lived life constantly on the move, slowing down wasn’t part of the plan. But like many, his world shifted when everything became more grounded. That shift marked the beginning of something unexpected—a denim journey that would last far longer than he imagined.

It started when we first released the Tuff Tony. Chris tried on a pair at The Galeries Store in Sydney and was hooked instantly. The relaxed fit and comfort struck a chord. His first wear? A road trip to Canberra—an experience that convinced him that loose-fit denim was the perfect companion for long drives. That was the moment he decided, almost on a whim, to start documenting the fades. From there, the jeans became a part of his everyday life.

They saw him through lockdown (remember lockdown?). Through a major move to a new city. Through the unforgettable moment of bringing newborn twins home to meet their two-year-old sibling. These jeans weren’t just along for the ride—they were part of the story. At first, Chris aimed for six months of wear before the first wash. Then it became seven. Then 250 days. Eventually, the challenge grew into something bigger: a full year. And he made it. One single wash on day 365, in the washing machine. One repair—at the hands of the skilled team at Zetland in Sydney, who reinforced the crotch and back of the knee.

But the journey didn’t stop there.
He kept going, pushing toward 500 wears. And he nearly made it. Before he could hit the milestone, we just had to reach out. Luckily for us, Chris felt it was the right time to pass the jeans on. Still, he admits, there’s not a week that goes by when he doesn’t miss them. 500 wears. 1 wash. 1 repair. A year of living in them. A whole story worn into every thread.

The entire journey was documented on Chris’s account, @snakeeyesselvedge, originally created just to chronicle this pair. What began as a personal experiment turned into a testament to conscious wear, slow living, and the quiet power of a well-worn garment. Chris didn’t just wear his Nudie Jeans - he lived in them.

Where are the jeans now you might wonder (so is Chris). Maria brought them with her to Italy as one of the inspirations for Life Tracks. Needless to say, she only brought the best of the best in that suitcase. You've only had a sneak peak of Life Tracks, so watch this space in August. Good things come to those who wait.

Ps. Chris is on a new wear-in journey, ready to be followed by us all.