Why are 501s called 501s?
Michael Green
Published Apr 17, 2026
It started off with a registered trademark of the “Two Horse Pull” icon which was Levi's® symbol of quality. In 1890, the XX would be renamed to 501®, a nod to the manufacturing batch number the denim jeans were assigned.
What is so special about Levis 501?
The 501 Standard Fit is the gold-standard for an affordable classic jean. It's not made from premium denim, and that's just the point. It's made from solid, serviceable denim, and it's produced in overseas factories so it can be sold at an accessible price-point.Are 501s still cool?
As the overall style of the Levi's jeans 501 model hasn't changed much over the years, it can be seen as more of a dealbreaker. These jeans are meant to be timeless, not fleeting. With that in mind, the Levi's 501 model will work wonderfully with someone who has a more classic style and fit.When did Levis start making 501s?
1873 — The Birthday of the Blue JeanLevi Strauss partners with Nevada tailor Jacob Davis on a patent to make the first riveted pockets on pants for working western pioneers using copper rivets at points of strain. This was the first iteration of the 501 jean, then known as XX.
What is the Levi's 501?
In 1873, Levi Strauss created the first ever pair of blue jeans with copper rivet reinforcements: the Levi's® 501® Original. These jeans were created to serve workers who moved out to the American West and needed sturdy, durable pants. 501® Original Fit Jeans have been worn by generations, defining style for decades.3 Things YOU NEED to know before buying Levi's 501's | Americana 101
Why are Levi's named 501?
It started off with a registered trademark of the “Two Horse Pull” icon which was Levi's® symbol of quality. In 1890, the XX would be renamed to 501®, a nod to the manufacturing batch number the denim jeans were assigned.Are 501s high waisted?
Since I do size up, and since 501s are, fundamentally, a high-rise, straight-leg, 100% cotton jean…the waist gets a bit big. These jeans do stretch out over time.Are Levi's 501 Unisex?
Wear What You Love: Gender Neutrality in Levi's®Are Levi's® 501® jeans men's or women's jeans? The answer: Both. Over the decades, they have been worn by men, women and gender non-conforming folks alike even despite products being designed specifically for one gender, like our women's 501®.