Guide: Are selvedge jeans better quality than other jeans?

Many denim enthusiasts choose to cuff their raw denim jeans to "flash" the selvedge edge. Selvedge, or jarekant as it's called in Norwegian, is the edge of the fabric that locks itself during weaving by the thread turning. This practically means that the fabric at this edge does not fray. The advantage is that you avoid using an overlock seam to prevent the threads in the fabric from fraying.

Are selvedge jeans better quality than other jeans?

The fact that a fabric has a selvedge edge does not automatically mean it is of better quality, but when it comes to denim, it is almost always a sign of quality. Japanese selvedge denim is usually produced on traditional shuttle looms. This production method is:

• Resource-intensive and costly: It takes much longer to weave than on modern machines.
• Exclusive: Narrow rolls of fabric are produced, which gives the iconic selvedge edge.
• Unattainable for fast fashion: The fabric is too expensive for large chain stores and their short-lived seasonal products.

Beware of "fake" selvedge and poor copies

Periodically, raw denim and selvedge become a popular trend. For us enthusiasts, this is always relevant, so we are happy when more people discover slow fashion, personal style, and quality. Unfortunately, there are "fast-fashion" producers who try to copy the style without integrity. Beware of:

• Jeans with sewn-on selvedge edge: Yes, there are actually brands that sew on a strip to imitate the look!
• Selvedge denim from low-cost countries: Often made with poor cotton quality and questionable dyeing processes.
• Poor working conditions: Raw denim produced under unethical conditions to drive down the price.

Nothing bothers a true denim enthusiast more than when someone tries to copy our style without respect for values like good craftsmanship and integrity.

Our advice: Choose Japanese selvedge or European craftsmanship

The simple rule is: Choose Japanese selvedge denim! If you want to explore something else, denim from Candiani Mill in Italy is a great alternative that combines sustainability with excellent craftsmanship. Beyond that, you should scrutinize whether the denim is made with respect for the craft or merely to satisfy the market's desire to copy a trend.

Have you bought a pair of raw denim selvedge jeans that you are proud of? Show that you appreciate great craftsmanship and old traditions by rolling up a cuff. Check out our guide to cuff or stack.