Written by Wesley Kang
Denim shopping should be simple, but with so many choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you’re debating between the 501 and 505, you’re not alone. I've walked into a store and got confused over all the Levi Strauss styles, from straight fit to straight cut, and all the nuances.
These two classic styles in Levi's jeans have been around for decades, but knowing which one suits your lifestyle, body type, and personal style best can be tricky.
Are you looking for a business casual jeans look with button-downs and blazers? Or are you going for a heritage-inspired aesthetic that gets better with age? Maybe you just need a reliable pair of jeans that won’t go out of style and can handle years of wear.
Whatever the case, this article is here to help. We’re going to break down the fit, comfort, durability, and style of the 501 and 505, ensuring you can confidently walk into a Levi’s store knowing exactly what you want.
A Brief History of the Levi’s 501
The 501 is the original blue jean—literally. First introduced in 1873, this was the jean that started it all. Designed initially for miners and laborers, the 501 quickly evolved into an everyday staple for men who wanted a tough, stylish, and dependable pair of jeans.
Over the decades, the 501 became a cultural icon, worn by Hollywood legends, rockstars, and working professionals alike.
M62, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Fit and Style
The 501 features a straight-leg, regular fit with a mid-rise waist that sits comfortably on your hips. It’s a structured jean, meaning it holds its shape well and isn’t too loose or too tight. The straight leg opening makes it versatile—you can wear it with one of your best dress shoes, sneakers, or boots.
One thing to note: the 501 comes with a button fly. If you’re used to a zipper fly, this might take some getting used to. However, many denim enthusiasts prefer the button fly for its durability and classic look.
Who is the 501 Best For?
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Men who want a classic, structured jean that will never go out of style
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Those who appreciate heritage denim with a vintage feel
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Guys who want a straight-leg jean that pairs well with smart casual dress codes
If you’re aiming for a timeless, effortlessly cool look that pairs well with oxfords, one of our favorite Chelsea boots, or best white casual sneakers, the 501 is a fantastic choice.
A Brief History of the Levi’s 505
How the Levi’s 505 Came to Be
While the 501 is legendary, Levi’s introduced the 505 in 1967 as a more modern, relaxed alternative. Designed for comfort and ease, the 505 quickly became a go-to for men who wanted a classic look without the rigidity of the 501.
These jeans gained popularity in the 1970s rock scene—it was famously worn by rockstars like The Ramones and became a favorite among men who wanted style with comfort.
Fit and Style
The 505 features a regular fit but offers more room in the thigh area than the 501. This makes it ideal for men who have larger legs or prefer a little extra space.
Unlike the 501, the 505 has a zip fly, which makes it more convenient and quicker to put on. It also has a straight but slight taper leg, giving it a clean, polished look that works well in business casual settings.
Who is the 505 Best For?
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Men who prefer a slightly roomier fit, especially in the thigh area
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Those who want a zip fly for convenience
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Guys looking for a jean that works well for casual Fridays with cuffed jeans and date nights out
If you’re looking for a comfortable, everyday jean that looks great with loafers, business casual sneakers, or even dress boots, the 505 is an excellent pick. Try pairing with loafers and a suit or sneakers with a suit.
Levi’s 501 vs. 505: Fit Comparison
When it comes to choosing between the 501 and 505, fit is one of the most important factors to consider. As a menswear brand that specializes in unique slim fit dress shirts, we can't write this article without really breaking down the fit for Levi's jeans.
While both jeans offer a classic straight-leg silhouette, they cater to slightly different body types and preferences.
Overall Fit: Structured vs. Relaxed
Shop the Levi's 501The 501 has a regular fit that sits at the waist with a straight leg from the hip to the ankle. It’s a structured jeans that maintains its shape well and has a more tailored feel, making it a great choice for men who appreciate a classic, slim silhouette. Since it doesn’t have much extra room in the thighs, it works best for those with average to a slimmer fit build.
On the other hand, the Levi’s 505 offers a roomier fit through the thighs while maintaining a straight leg. This makes it a more comfortable option for men with larger legs or those who prefer a more relaxed fit.
The slightly looser cut allows for easier movement, making it a great choice for all-day wear, especially for men who are active or spend long hours sitting at a desk.
Waist and Rise Comparison
Both the 501 and 505 sit at the waist, but the 501 has a slightly higher rise, meaning it sits just a bit above the hips. This gives a more vintage-inspired fit, which some men prefer for its timeless, put-together appearance.
The 505 has a mid-rise fit that feels a bit more modern, not slim fit, making it easier to wear with untucked shirts or casual outfits. It offers a bit more give in the waist area, making it ideal for men who prioritize comfort over a snug, tailored look.
Thigh and Leg Opening Differences
One of the most noticeable differences between the two jeans is the fit in the thigh area.
The 501 has a standard, straight fit through the thigh, meaning it provides enough room for movement but remains structured. This is a great option if you prefer a jean that sits cleanly on the leg without any extra fabric bunching up.
In contrast, the 505 has a slightly looser thigh fit, making it a better choice for men who have muscular legs or prefer more space for movement. This added room provides better comfort when sitting, walking, or bending down.
The leg openings on both jeans are straight, but the 505 tapers ever so slightly, creating a subtler, more streamlined look.
This minor difference makes the 505 slightly easier to pair with modern footwear, whereas the 501 maintains its traditional straight-leg cut, which works well with boots like one of these best Chukka boots for men or vintage-style sneakers.
Flexibility and Ease of Wear
The 501’s structured fit means that it holds its shape well, which is great for men who appreciate a tailored appearance that doesn’t stretch out too much over time. However, this also means it can feel slightly rigid, especially if you opt for the classic 100% cotton "Shrink to Fit" version.
The 505 is a more forgiving jean, thanks to its extra thigh room and zip fly. It’s easier to put on and take off, and it offers a bit more comfort during long hours of wear. Some versions even include stretch denim, adding an extra layer of flexibility.
Which Fit is Right for You?
If you’re looking for a classic, structured fit that molds to your body over time, the Levi’s 501 is the better choice. It’s great for men who prefer a tailored yet casual look that works well in business casual settings and more polished outfits.
If you need a jean that offers a bit more comfort and room to move, the Levi’s 505 is the ideal option. It’s especially great for men with bigger legs or those who prefer a relaxed fit without going too baggy.
Ultimately, both jeans offer timeless styles, but the right choice comes down to personal comfort preferences and lifestyle needs. In short:
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The 505 offers a bit more room, making it easier to move around in.
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The 501, with its button fly and traditional fit, may feel more rigid but also holds its shape better over time.
505 vs 501 Table Comparision
| Feature | Levi’s 501 |
Levi’s 505
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|---|---|---|
| Fit | Regular fit, straight leg | Regular fit, slightly relaxed thigh |
| Fly | Button fly | Zip fly |
| Leg Opening | Straight | Straight but slightly tapered |
| Comfort Level | More structured | More relaxed |
| Fabric Options | Shrink-to-Fit and pre-shrunk | Pre-shrunk only |
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Which One is Better for You?
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Choose the 501 if you want a timeless, structured fit that will mold your body over time.
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Choose the 505 if you prefer a slightly looser fit with the convenience of a zip fly.
Still unsure? We created this style calculator to make things even easier! Take our style quiz to see which of these jeans make the most sense for your classic menswear style.
Levi’s 501 vs. 505 Style Calculator
Conclusion
Both Levi’s 501 and 505 are excellent choices, but they serve different preferences. To recap:
The 501 is ideal for those who love a classic, vintage feel, while the 505 is perfect for those who want a little extra comfort and ease.
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Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal style and lifestyle. If you want a rugged, old-school denim experience, go for the 501. If you’re after a more relaxed, everyday jean, the 505 is a solid pick.
FAQs about levi's jeans
What is the difference between 501 and 505 Levi's?
The biggest difference between the Levi’s 501 and 505 is the fit and the fly closure. The 501 has a regular fit with a straight fit and a button fly, giving it a structured, vintage feel.
The 505, on the other hand, has a regular fit but with more room in the thighs and a zip fly, making it more relaxed and easier to wear for everyday use.
Are 501s meant to be baggy?
No, the Levi’s 501 is not designed to be baggy. It has a regular fit with a straight fit, meaning it sits comfortably on the body without being too tight or too loose.
However, the fit may vary depending on your body type. If you want a looser feel, you may consider sizing up or opting for a relaxed-fit jean like the Levi’s 505 or 550.
Did Levi's change the 505?
Yes, Levi’s has updated the 505 over the years. While the classic 505 Regular Fit remains a staple, Levi’s also introduced a 505C (Customized Fit), which has a slightly slimmer fit leg for a more modern look.
Additionally, fabric compositions have evolved, with some 505 styles incorporating stretch denim for added comfort. However, the overall fit and zip-fly design remains true to the original.
What is the difference between Levi 501 and 555?
The Levi’s 501 and 555 differ mainly in fit. The 501 has a straight-leg, regular fit, while the 555 is a more relaxed-fit jean with extra room in the seat and thighs.
The 555 is a great option for those who find the 501 too snug and prefer a roomier, looser feel. Both styles offer classic Levi’s quality but cater to different comfort levels and body types.
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