When it comes to finding the right pair of jeans, material matters the most. The type of denim you choose affects how the pants look, how comfortable they are, how long they last, and more. That’s why it’s important to consider both stretch and rigid denim when choosing the right jeans for boys.

Both options have their advantages and drawbacks depending on where, why, and how you want to wear them. Learn all about the different types of materials and how they affect the look and feel of your jeans with this guide.

What Makes Denim Stretchy?

Before you pick what kind of jeans you want, it’s important to understand what goes into them. Both stretch and non-stretch jeans consist of denim, but they aren’t quite the same. Rigid jeans consist of 100 percent cotton denim. Stretchy jeans, on the other hand, incorporate polyester and spandex to achieve their softer, more flexible feel.

Pure cotton jeans are the traditional option. Their stiff, durable design is perfect for their original purpose of holding up against long days on the ranch or in the saddle. Stretch jeans are newer in comparison and arose with the introduction of spandex in the mid-20th century. More and more modern jeans use some kind of blend, making them more flexible than traditional, raw denim rigid jeans.

Advantages of Stretchy Denim

There are several reasons why you might want stretchy denim instead of rigid denim for your jeans. First and foremost is comfort. Stretch denim is softer and more flexible; it moves with your body more easily than rigid denim does. As a result, it feels nicer against your skin. It’s also easier to bend, twist, run, and be more active in them right away, because they automatically conform to your body as soon as you try them on.

That also means they have a nice shape right away. Instead of having to stretch and mold to your body over time the way rigid jeans do, stretch denim fits the way it’s supposed to on day one. This makes stretch jeans ideal for easy, stylish outfits.

But style isn’t the only thing they have going for them because stretch jeans are as versatile as they are comfortable. They look great dressed up with a nice button-up or dressed down with tennis shoes and a t-shirt. You can wear a dark pair of stretch jeans to the office, on a date, or while hanging out with friends. But if you’re looking for more active outfits, they’re also great for going hiking, running errands, or just having a comfy day at home.

Disadvantages of Stretchy Denim

Stretch denim does have its downsides, though. The biggest one is durability. Because they consist of a cotton blend rather than raw denim, stretch jeans break down more easily over time. They’re also more likely to stretch in the wash, leading to a worsened fit over time.

Another drawback of stretch denim is that it doesn’t offer the same custom fit rigid denim does. Though it looks good right off the rack, it doesn’t conform to your body and only offers a standard fit. This can sometimes make it harder to find a pair that looks perfect or made just for you.

Advantages of Rigid Denim

Rigid denim is the more durable of the two options. Its sturdy design means that your jeans won’t wear out as quickly, even if you’re moving around and working hard in them. Rigid denim jeans also offer a custom fit. As you break them in, they shape to your body, creating a fit that looks tailor-made for you. This also makes them more comfortable over time.

Once you break them in, they’ll hold their shape and continue to offer a stylish, comfortable, custom fit. If you want jeans that hold up and look perfect on you, rigid denim is the way to go.

Rigid denim is also as versatile as stretch denim. The heavier weight and sturdier material means rigid jeans are perfect for physical work, adventuring in the great outdoors, and other high-intensity activities. However, if you keep your jeans nice and clean, they also pair well with dressier outfits to create a sleek, charming look.

Disadvantages of Rigid Denim

As mentioned above, rigid denim isn’t as soft as stretch denim. This means rigid jeans can feel rough and stiff when you first try them on. It’s difficult to stretch, bend, and move around while your jeans are still new, which limits how you can wear them right away.

Rigid denim also needs breaking in. This process can be long and potentially uncomfortable, so it might be a while before you can truly enjoy the custom fit and feel of your rigid jeans.

Try Jeans Before You Buy

One of the most important tips when choosing between stretch or rigid denim for boys is to try the jeans on. You never know exactly how they’re going to look and feel before they’re on. Trying them out lets you see the fit for yourself.

This is also a good time to move around—including walking, stretching, sitting, and kneeling—to see if the jeans feel comfortable. While rigid denim will transform over time, stretch denim should feel comfortable in the dressing room. If it isn’t, it’s time to try a different size or style.

Give Rigid Denim Time To Break In

Rigid denim starts out stiff and conforms to your shape over time. This process takes time, so if you’re going to buy rigid denim, be prepared to put some effort in.

Try to move around a lot the first few times you wear your rigid jeans. Squat, stretch, or even do a quick workout in them to help them stretch and shape to your legs. Soaking the denim and then either wearing the jeans to dry them or putting them on when they’re still just a little damp will also help the denim conform to your body.

Choosing the Right Pair

Whether you want stretch or rigid denim comes down to your own preferences and what you need out of your next pair of jeans. Stretch denim will be more comfortable and easier to wear right away. It’s your best option if you’re going for an instant stylish addition to your wardrobe. If you want to invest in a custom fit that lasts for years, though, rigid denim is the way to go.

No matter what kind of jeans you’re looking for, you can find quality and style at Eli’s Western Wear. Shop our selection of boys’ Western jeans and other options for the whole family when you visit us today.