Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThere is no single best pair of Levi’s jeans for everyone. Start with the silhouette and feel you want: the 501 Original is a straight, non-stretch classic with a button fly; the 505 Regular offers a roomier straight fit and zip fly; and other models trade thigh room, rise and leg shape in different ways. Use the fit descriptions below to make a shortlist, then check the size chart and details for the exact wash you plan to buy.
How to choose a Levi’s fit
Compare a few design details rather than treating the model number as a sizing system. Levi’s says its style numbers can indicate features such as fit, rise, fly and leg opening; nearby numbers do not necessarily mean similar cuts. The descriptions here are Levi’s US guidance, not independent wear tests or a ranking of quality. Fabric and fit details may vary by wash or specific product.
- Room: Decide whether you want a closer fit, regular room, extra thigh space or a relaxed silhouette.
- Rise: Check where the waistband is designed to sit, and whether you prefer a lower, mid or higher rise.
- Leg shape: Choose among straight, tapered, skinny, bootcut or ankle-length styles.
- Fabric and fly: Check the exact listing for stretch level and whether it has a button or zip fly.
- Length and proportions: Consider inseam and desired break. For women’s fits, also consider whether extra seat and thigh room or a tailored hip-to-waist ratio is relevant to your preference.
Which Levi’s fit should I choose?
501 Original: straight leg, non-stretch denim
Choose the 501 Original as a starting point if you want a straight leg, regular thigh and button fly, and are comfortable with non-stretch denim. Levi’s describes both its men’s and women’s versions as sitting at the waist and having a straight leg. It is a useful reference for comparing other cuts, not a universal winner. See Levi’s 501 Original fit details.
505 Regular: straight with more ease and a zip fly
Consider the 505 Regular if you want a straight fit with a little more room and prefer a zip fly. Levi’s describes it as slightly roomy, with a mid rise and room through the waist and thigh. See Levi’s fit guide.
#1 Best Overall
511 Slim: close fit with more ankle room than the 510
The 511 Slim is close through the hip and leg. Levi’s describes it as having more room at the ankle than the 510 Skinny, making it an option if you want a slim silhouette without the 510’s more ankle-hugging fit.
502 Taper: extra thigh room, narrower lower leg
Consider the 502 Taper if you want extra room in the thigh and a leg that narrows toward the ankle.
Rank #2
- Ideal for Gifting
- Ideal for a bookworm
- Compact for travelling
517 Bootcut: wider from knee to ankle
The 517 Bootcut widens from the knee toward the ankle. Choose it if that flared shape is the silhouette you want, including when you prefer a leg opening that can accommodate boots.
550 Relaxed: roomier with a slight taper
The 550 Relaxed is roomier than the 501 and has a slight taper. It is an option when you want a more relaxed silhouette without a fully straight leg.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Women’s 501 Curve: extra seat and thigh room
The 501 Curve has extra room through the seat and thigh and a tailored hip-to-waist ratio. It may be worth considering if those proportions are closer to what you want; take measurements and consult the model’s chart rather than assuming the fit will suit every body.
Women’s 501 ’90s: looser through hip and thigh
The 501 ’90s is looser through the hip and thigh. Levi’s suggests sizing down or trying the 501 Original for a slimmer fit.
Rank #4
Women’s Ribcage Straight: super-high rise
The Ribcage Straight is described by Levi’s as super-high-rise, slim through the hip and thigh, and straight through the leg. Choose it if that high-rise proportion is your preference.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to find your Levi’s size
Measurements are a better starting point than assuming one Levi’s model will fit like another. Levi’s US size guidance asks men to measure waist, seat, thigh and inseam. Use the chart as a reference, then check the product page for the chosen model, wash and fabric: the published guidance does not establish one sizing rule that applies across every cut and material. Consult Levi’s US size guide.
Best Value
- It can be a gift option
- Comes with secure packaging
- Helpful in various ways
- Waist: Measure around the smallest part of your waist.
- Seat: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, keeping the tape horizontal.
- Thigh: Measure around the fullest part of your thigh.
- Inseam: Measure down the inside of your leg from the crotch to the ankle.
- Compare: Match your measurements to the size chart and review the exact product’s rise, fabric and fit details before choosing.
What the Levi’s 501 name represents
Levi’s company-published history says that on May 20, 1873, Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis were granted patent number 139,121 for riveting work pants. That date and account are presented in the brand’s Women’s 501 Jeans Guide.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
