Rigid denim, or rigid jeans, refers to stiff denim, though the exact definition can vary depending on who you ask. For us, rigid denim means denim without elastic fibers—non-elastic or non-stretch denim. Most often, this translates to 100% organic cotton denim, though it can also include other fibers such as recycled cotton, linen, hemp, or lyocell.

We choose rigid denim for fits that benefit from its qualities, particularly those that don’t require the stretch provided by elastic fibers. While tight or slim fits may need some elasticity for comfort and ease of movement, when a fit allows enough room for movement and is supported by a well-crafted pattern, there’s no need for stretch denim. In these cases, we always opt for rigid denim for two main reasons.

First, we aim to reduce our reliance on synthetic fibers, which improves the post-consumer recyclability of our jeans. Second, rigid denim offers superior textural properties. Even though there are ways to enhance texture in stretch denim—and as denim enthusiasts, we’re always looking to offer the best of both worlds—rigid denim remains particularly special to us. Its aesthetic properties, with richer and more pronounced textures, make it our favorite type of denim to work with.