Fed up with having to break in your new denim? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Jeans are a key component in any guy’s wardrobe, but just like a pair of leather shoes, they can take a while to hit peak performance. To help, we’ve pulled together the best men’s stretch jeans to suit every taste and occasion.
Stretch jeans are your fast-track ticket to free-moving comfort, whether you’re hiking, commuting to the office, or simply want to be more comfortable day-to-day. An equally stylish (but more forgiving design) than its raw denim counterpart, the stretch jean gives you the freedom of movement that usually only hard-worn denim provides.
But where can you find the best stretch jeans for men? We searched high and low and handpicked the very best on the market. Good news is, there’s plenty of stretch to go around — no matter what your taste or budget is. So keep reading, and you may just find your new favorite pair.
If you haven’t heard of
Part of the label’s ‘Made in Japan’ collection, they’re a versatile choice for work, weekend lunches, and walks in the park. Wear them with everything from classic white tees to check shirts and crew neck sweaters.
Material: Cotton 98%, Polyurethane 2% | Sizes available: 28-38” | Colors: Black | Inseam: 30-32” | Care: Machine wash
Founded in 2012 by Swedish entrepreneurs Erik Torstensson and Jens Grede, FRAME is a premium label with a strong focus on creating really awesome jeans. This skinny-fit pair is one of their bestselling styles (and you can clearly see why).
Cut from faded blue denim, they can be dressed up with a semi-formal shirt or teamed with a crew neck tee for more relaxed events. If you’re planning to wear them regularly, you’ll be pleased to know they feature just enough stretch to keep you comfortable throughout the day and well into the evening. It’s worth noting that the brand kindly recommends buying one size larger than normal, as this particular pair comes up a little small.
Material: Cotton 94%, Polyester 5%, Elastane 1% | Sizes available: 28-36” | Colors: Blue, Light Denim, Indigo, Black | Inseam: 32” | Care: Machine wash
No guide to the best men’s stretch jeans would be credible without featuring the uncrowned king of denim. The 511 jeans from Levi’s are a great alternative to skinny jeans. They come in a modern slim fit — sitting close to the leg but with plenty of room to move.
This stylish everyday choice is made with the brand’s most advanced stretch technology, engineered to deliver maximum flex and optimum comfort. Pair yours with a crew neck T-shirt and a bomber jacket for a fail-safe outfit that will see you through endless smart-casual occasions.
Material: Cotton 99%, Elastane 1% | Sizes available: 28-42” | Colors: Blue, Black | Inseam: 29-36” | Care: Machine wash
Cut in a classic style, GAP’s black wash ‘boot’ jeans have been made to last. They use a year-round 11.25 oz denim and GapFlex stretch technology, making them a shrewd investment for regular jean wearers. If you’re looking for an excellent all-rounder pair of men’s pants that offers plenty of room to move, you found it. They’re a comfortable option suitable for any day, season, or decade.
Whether you’re hitting the mall or exploring the city, they’ll look as good with crew neck sweaters as they will with long-sleeved tees or flannel shirts. Just don’t forget to wear chunkier footwear; you don’t want your shoes to be hiding under the hem.
Material: Cotton 71%, Polyester 18%, Other 9%, Spandex 2% | Sizes available: 28-42” | Colors: Black | Inseam: 28-34” | Care: Machine wash
With a straight leg and light wash, these jeans from Calvin Klein take you right back to the 90s. And what a great place to be… The subtle distressed element feels both nostalgic and modern at the same time, so they’ll appeal to all ages.
Featuring five-pocket styling and metal logo hardware, they’re a safe bet for weekend lunches, festivals, and date nights. We say embrace the retro trend and team yours with a band tee and some Old Skool Vans.
Material: Cotton 98%, Elastane 2% | Sizes available: 28-42” | Colors: Blue, Light blue, Black, Gray, + | Inseam: 29-34” | Care: Machine wash
Led by Marcus Wainwright, Rag & Bone is widely known for creating super cool clothing — including some of the best men’s pants and a rather impressive collection of denim. These refreshing light gray stretch jeans come in the label’s popular Fit 2. They’re mid-rise and tailored through the hip and thigh with a narrow leg opening.
A versatile addition to your everyday rotation, they can be easily paired with casual or semi-formal tops and footwear. Case in point: they’ll look right at home with a crisp white tee and box-fresh sneakers but can be just as effective with a leather jacket and boots.
Material: Cotton 90.5%, Polyester 8%, Spandex 1.5% | Sizes available: 28-38” | Colors: Light Gray | Inseam: 32” | Care: Machine wash
If you’re searching for some classic jeans with a little stretch, look no further than this pair from Nudie Jeans. One of the label’s most-popular cuts, the ‘Lean Dean’ boasts a slim, tapered shape, and they’re made from 12.5oz organic stretch denim.
Like the worn-in effect? They’re lightly faded and whiskered, so they look like they’ve already seen a bit of action. Whether you’re hanging with friends or seeing a movie, we think they’ll pair perfectly with a wide range of casual attire — relaxed-fit hoodies to long-sleeved tees and sneakers.
Material: Organic cotton 99%, Elastane 1% | Sizes available: 28-36” | Colors: Mid Denim | Inseam: 32-34” | Care: Machine wash
White jeans have been polarizing opinions for as long as we can remember. Alongside floral shirts and socks with sandals, they drum up more debate than fantasy football picks. This pair from Mango, however, shows there’s nothing to be afraid of.
Clean, classic, and versatile, they’re the perfect denim choice for spring/summer. White reflects rather than absorbs, so they help keep you cool in soaring temperatures. Team them with a patterned shirt, and they’ll be your go-to for first dates, BBQs, and beers with the boys.
Material: Cotton 98%, Elastane 2% | Sizes available: 26-36” | Colors: Off-White, Khaki, Beige, Gray | Inseam: 30-32” | Care: Machine wash
Inspired by the faded styles popular during the 1970s, these Todd Snyder jeans already have the look of an old favorite. They’re basically your perfect thrift-shop find, but nobody else has worn them before. They feature intricate details such as antique copper rivets, chain stitching, and a suede-embossed patch.
The color sits somewhere between classic blue and a bleached-out wash, making them an excellent option for the warmer months. They’ll look particularly great teamed with a graphic T-shirt and high-top Chucks, whether you’re grabbing lunch in the city or heading out for some retail therapy.
Material: Cotton 85%, Polyester 13.5%, Elastane 1.5% | Sizes available: 28-38” | Colors: Light Blue, Indigo, Mid Blue | Inseam: 30-32” | Care: Machine wash
From Pharrell Williams to Travis Scott and Justin Bieber, every man and his dog is wearing distressed denim. If you’re not restricted by budget, get in on the action with this forward-thinking pair from AMIRI.
Crafted from premium denim with a hint of stretch, they’re an excellent example of the label’s knack for fusing retro rock ‘n’ roll with ready-to-wear streetwear. To complete the eye-catching look, find yourself an oversized T-shirt and some statement sneakers. To really release your inner rockstar, don’t be afraid to add a leather jacket to the mix.
Material: Cotton 92%, Elastomultiester 6%, Elastane 2% | Sizes available: 28-40” | Colors: Black | Inseam: 34-35” | Care: Machine wash
For designer denim fans, look no further than Purple Brand. Launched in 2017 by Rob Lo Hailing and Luke Cosby, the label believes jeans are the anchor of the modern man’s wardrobe (and we wholeheartedly agree). They create a wide range of styles, each finished individually by hand — no two pairs are the same.
This skinny-fit pair is up there with the best stretch jeans for men. They’re decorated with a subtle leopard print that’s not for the faint-hearted. Wear them with a bomber jacket, hoodie, and your favorite high-tops to bring a touch of character to everyday ensembles.
Material: Cotton 98%, Lycra 2% | Sizes available: 28-40” | Colors: Black | Inseam: 31-34” | Care: Machine wash
Looking to get more
They come in a wide range of colors, from dark indigo to washed black, and will slot effortlessly into your current smart-casual rotation. Whether you’re hitting a party or hanging with friends, they’ll look just as good with a long-sleeved tee as they will with a printed shirt.
Material: Cotton 98%, Elastane 2% | Sizes available: 28-42” | Colors: Black, Blue, Dark Indigo, Light Blue, + | Inseam: 28-34” | Care: Machine wash
The perfect pair of men’s stretch jeans don’t exist, but these come pretty close. The Sullivan by Polo Ralph Lauren has pretty much everything a man could want from his denim. Providing endless styling options, they’re slim without being restrictive, while the classic shade of blue strikes the sweet spot between smart and casual. They also come in a wide range of sizes, so they can be worn by all men regardless of body shape.
Material: Cotton 99%, Elastane 1% | Sizes available: 28-42” | Colors: Indigo | Inseam: 30-34” | Care: Machine wash
What to Look for When Looking for The Best Men’s Stretch Jeans
Stretch Material
The best men’s stretch jeans are made almost entirely of cotton, with just a little stretch to aid mobility and comfort. It doesn’t matter if the stretch material is elastane, spandex, or any other synthetic fiber, but there should never be more than a few percent. If there is, they’ll start to feel cheap and more like a pair of sweatpants than jeans.
Fit
Stretch jeans are available in a wide range of fits. You simply need to find the one that suits your style and body shape. Generally speaking, short guys should avoid low-rise styles, and taller men act the best when doing the opposite. Slim-fit jeans are an excellent option for slender builds, while skinny styles are perfect for average-sized physiques. The ultimate all-rounder, straight-leg jeans are the most versatile option — looking great on just about every body type.
Color
The color of jeans you choose ultimately depends on your personal style. However, there are three shades every guy should have in his closet: black, light blue, and dark blue. Stylish, timeless, and versatile, these are the jeans you will wear the most. Whether you’re hitting a bar or heading to the office, you can team these menswear must-haves with everything from crew neck tees to hoodies and dress shirts.
FAQ
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While the name may give the impression that they’re some variation of active pants, men’s stretch jeans actually look just like your favorite denim but offer extra movement and comfort. For the most part, they’re still made from cotton but are woven with stretchy fibers such as spandex, elastane, or lycra. It is these synthetic fibers that give the jeans additional flexibility.
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Stretching your jeans DIY-style will not give them the same elasticity as a pair of stretch jeans, but it could give you a little more wiggle room and save you a few dollars in the process. Luckily, whether you’ve been creating killer calves in the gym or putting on a few extra pounds over the holidays, there’s a quick and easy trick to help you achieve your jean-stretching goals.
Simply take a spray bottle, fill it with warm water, and mist your jeans on the sections that require some give. When they are wet enough, strategically pull on the fabric in the specific areas you’re hoping to stretch. Once complete, try your jeans on and repeat the process (if necessary) until you’re happy with how they fit and feel.
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The best stretch jeans for men come in a variety of shapes, from slim to skinny and straight. There’s no hard and fast rule on how they should fit. At the end of the day, it really depends on which look you’re going for.
As a rule of thumb, at the very least, your jeans should feel comfortable enough to move freely; that’s why they’ve been given stretch in the first place. On the smartness scale, slimmer designs are more suitable for dressier outfits, while looser-fit denim will give your outfit a relaxed feel.
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