Denim

Denim is a heavy-duty cotton twill fabric with roots that stretch back to 17th-century France — originally known as serge de Nîmes. But its rugged reputation was forged in the American West. Indigo-dyed and tightly woven, denim has become synonymous with resilience, rebellion, and real-life wear.

Characteristics

Denim’s defining trait is its diagonal ribbing, thanks to the twill weave. It’s built for abrasion, designed to soften and mold with time. Raw denim — untouched by pre-washes — is particularly valued in rugged circles for the way it develops a personal patina through wear: honeycombs behind the knees, whiskers at the hips, and fades that tell your story.

Historical Use

From Gold Rush miners to 20th-century mechanics, denim was the uniform of hard-working men. Levi Strauss’ copper-riveted pants changed the landscape in 1873. What started as utilitarian garb became cultural armor for rebels, cowboys, and rock ’n rollers alike.

Connection to Rugged Style

Denim is the soul of rugged menswear. It’s tough, ageless, and unpretentious — a fabric that wears down beautifully but never wears out. Whether caked in dust on the back of a motorcycle or breaking in over time behind a workbench, denim embodies character earned the hard way.

In the Field

You’ll find raw selvedge denim in the kits of heritage enthusiasts, backcountry explorers, and city dwellers who want grit with their style. Worn with leather boots, flannel, and a well-worn field jacket, denim is the foundation of any timeless rugged uniform. Brands like Iron Heart, Samurai, and Fullcount make jeans that can take a beating and look better for it.