Technically even if a said grandparent founded a company the chances that it would remain in the family is very low. In fact if not outright losing control by selling or having lost controlling percentage amount of shares namely 51% as that would be the lowest possible amount in which you could consider to not have to ask anyone else opinions as your vote would outright beat everyone 😅. So if anything I would think you would as say grandson be angry as you would have probably only dividends or the buyout money if anything and nothing to do with the company
For a lot of people in third world country like mine, Levis jeans are considered premium. People tend to save up and spend "big" on a pair of levis that will last for minimum 2 years instead of buying cheaply made and easy to toss H&M or Zara or some Turkish/chinese brand. In here if you want a jeans that will last, you get levis.
Got into raw denim out of frustration from my jeans being useless in a year then came across a Levi’s black label on sale. Never going back. Good video as usual.
Wore Levi's 501s to school starting in the mid-1960s. Just $5 a pair would get me through years of work (warehouses, truck driving, etc.) and wear before they shredded. Still wearing a pair from back in the 2000s, probably time to get started on my final pair 😂😂
Different jeans brands fit slightly differently, and Levi's is one of the only brands I have tried that has that "perfect fit" for me. I have three different pairs that I rotate along with other trousers depending on the "style of the day". I only wash my jeans once a week, but that's because I only do laundry once a week.
This is precisely why so many people swear by them, their fits are consistent and haven't changed much throughout the years. Thanks for adding to the conversation here!
Specially the 501 that is the perfect pair of jeans ever made. Perfect in every single way not too big and not too small or tight just on the perfect size.
I’ve bought only Levi’s jeans since the late 80s - I like the fit, the quality, and because I tend to buy secondhand, the price and durability. I’ve bought other brands as well, but always come back to Levi’s, because they just work for me.
When I was a kid, 501’s could definitely stand up on their own. Lol We had to wash them at home multiple times, usually with bleach, to get them soft enough to really wear. Those pants lasted forever. I think I still have a couple of pairs that I bought in the 80’s.
if anyone's looking for durable jeans look for something made in japan or made out of denim woven in japan. that's the good stuff. similar to well made leather shoes they need to be broken in a bit since they are stiff and heavy but they last much longer than the thin jeans other companies make they might look a bit "old school" to some people though, they often don't use modern fits like slim or skinny and they are way pricier
I find the 501 jeans or the Levi's made in Egypt are superior to the Levi's made in other countries because Egyptian cotton is the highest quality in the world.
@@GrandmasterkillerMany of the Japanese brands use cotton from African countries because it is grown like it was 100 years ago. It's long fiber as well, like Egyptian. Really it just comes down to knowing the product you're buying
For what it's worth, I've been wearing a pair of Levi's for 6 years since 2017, and though they look worn out a bit and have a hole, they are mostly doing fine. So yeah you don't have to change jeans every year. Still the original raw jeans would have lasted longer :)
I have a pair that has lasted for 7 years, and last week it gave out, a hole on the right knee. It was distressed. Had it been raw, I bet it could have lasted 10 years.
Wearing jeans with holes that you put in yourself vs pre-distressed ones is way cooler anyway... Plus now you have the opportunity patch them up with more denim or a cool fabric of choice! Win win in our book
If you know anyone with a sewing machine, patching jeans is super easy. I keep my kids out grown jeans to use as patch material because thunder thighs.
I only wear the denim from my youth (I’m 44; your generation horrifically refers to our jeans as “Mom Jeans”) because they’re still good, since they’re 100% denim. I still have jeans from high school (class of ‘96!) that don’t have any holes in them
As someone who own a lot of Levi blue jeans, I have to say the quality and brand name is great but alternative are starting to catch my eye. My main problem is with cheaper denim I find that the color fades faster. My experience is with H&M jeans
I have a few pairs of 100% cotton Levi’s, all bought second hand for less than 10 Australian dollars apiece. All of them are holding up well after years of wear. I think the 100% cotton is the key- spandex and elastane seem to make garments wear out faster.
For me Levi’s quality control is the worst part about them especially with sizing. I could pick up several different washes and it is likely only one would actually fit me. Also it frustrates me so much how if a big guy wants to go and buy a more expensive quality pair of jeans like the Mud Jeans, they never do sizing above waist 38 - I personally love spending on quality products and I just can’t spend my money on them due to lack of availability.
All woven fabric has a weft and warp. Weft are the threads that are parallel to the selvedge and warp is perpendicular to the selvedge. Denim is a cotton twill fabric.
I still have 3 pairs of Levi's that my mom bought me in my junior year of high school. They had to hang in the closet for about 2 years because I gained some weight, but are now back in action...yeah! By the way, I was a junior in...drum roll...1978! Yes, that means I'm an old dude, in years, but not in my heart. And I have worn jeans ~98% of the time my whole life. But never, ever, no way in hell, jean shorts...ugh!
I used to blow through regular denim Levi's all the time, the stretchy ones while the material isn't as durable, tend to not wear out at the same hotspots that previous ones did. Although I find different color stretchy ones of the same model have different amounts of stretch which is weird
The beauty of a pair of Levi's, especially with the 501 model is the anti-fit back rise. For guys that keep themselves fit (Think- Lean athletic build), the 501 rise and straight leg cut gives the wearer the most aesthetically pleasing silhouette. Whether you wear them a size down for that close to body fit or a size up for that relax summer vibe, the classic pair of 501 always never fail to exude a great overall look. For the average male from dads to muscular body builders to construction workers to college adolescents, the 501 has an appeal that spread across masculine ruggedness, true Americana vintage history and popular current culture. No other brand has come close to how Levi's has marketed the original denim overalls into an everyday modern day pair of jeans that is infused in street culture, music and just plain cool vibes. Its one of the undeniable iconic pair of jeans in denim trouser history. (I am not affiliated to LEVI'S btw)
In Leah’s defense, I’m 90% sure in Goldmember Dr Evil does say “Frickin laserbeams attached to their frickin heads.” So you’re both right, depending on which movie.
Growing up my grandfather considered Levi’s to be the best of the best. This was back in the 50’s. Less fortunate folks would wear a pear of Lee’s or something else. I’ve worn Levi’s but I especially enjoy my jeans from Lucky Brand and Banana Republic.
Back in the late 60s we were all wearing 546 Levi's bell bottoms. My mom told me to get a pair of 501 shrink-to-fit jeans, I did, and I loved the fit and the way they faded. So that is what I have been wearing ever since. From the start I studied my Levi's and was fascinated how well they were designed and made (I am an engineer). So I began collecting them and have way too many. I always get dark denim because they produce a beautiful fade and I think pre-faded jeans look phony, like a fake convertible top. My favorite 501 STFs are the ones made between 1993-1999. They have the best fit and use the best denim. I bought a lifetime supply back then because they were inexpensive and I figured they couldn't get any better, and boy was I right. I still have a couple dozen in storage that are new with tags. I also collected all the other models like 505s, 569s, 517s, 514s, Silver tabs, etc. to have a complete collection. The Silver tabs had the best quality heavy denim in Levi's history. My special Levi's include a like new 1970s 501 redlines, early 1980s NWT 501 redlines, black leather 501s, a bunch of single pocket Type 3 jackets some with Big E and a suede one, a 76 inch waist 501 that was a store display, and miscellaneous LVC reproductions like a Type 1 buckleback jacket, and buckleback 501s. I got many of my rare Levi's items on ebay when it first appeared in the late 1990s. By 2000 Levi's was under stress due to very cheap competition. They had to adapt and that meant moving production overseas and using inferior lightweight denim. The fit of the 501s was loosened, that would cause the middle button to sometimes pop open, and they just didn't fit me well like all previous 501s. Since I have over 100 pairs that are new or in different states of wear, I quit buying Levis's 20 years ago when they became mediocre. I liked this video.
I’ve been on a crazy Levi’s kick as of late. I typically buy Levi’s 511, but I wanted to try new cuts and styles. Think I’m gonna starting wearing 512’s
I inherited my mom’s Levi’s from the late 90s - I was about 6-7yo at that time & my brother was a baby. I’m pretty sure I used her jeans as kleenex too at some point but I’m gonna wear mom’s jeans with pride 😅
As soon as you said your daddy owned the company I thought "but your last name is Hildebrand.... And you live in Canada..." Can't pull a fast one on me.
In Peru, the cheapest locally made jeans cost $10 and most people pays $10-20 for a pair of jeans. Also, common inseam's size starts at 26", but Levis jeans cost $70-80 with 30"+ inseams, so Levis is a premium brand here and not so popular.
Nearly every pair of Levi's I bought in the 1970s eventually ended up as cutoffs because, well, they wore out in the knees relatively quickly. Been wearing Levi's for 50 year. I love them, but they are the least durable pants I have ever owned. Seeing how today, men should never be seen wearing jeans cutoffs, when my Levi's rip, as they always do, they just get tossed.
Raw denim became a hyperfocus for me close to ten years ago. Three things I want more people to know, which this video didn't talk about: 1. More than microbes, dust ant dirt are the concern. if you want your jeans to last, it's important to wash them when they become visibly soiled with dust, ash, or mud. You definitely don't need to wash them every time you wear them, but dirt and grit working its way into the cotton fibers composing denim is what causes distress. 2. Putting your jeans in the dryer, more than washing them, is what kills them. Turn them inside out before washing, then hang-dry them waistband-down, and they'll last like 10 times as long. If you don't want the jeans to fade as quickly, I really recommend Woolite Dark for your detergent. 3. If you don't want your jeans to shrink, look for "sanforized" or "one wash" jeans. These have been given contact with water once, after the denim comes off the loom and before it's cut into jeans, to pre-set the majority of the shrinkage the jeans will ever incur. This video talks about it mostly as a thing of the past, but there are a lot of companies still doing raw and nearly-raw denim, even Levi's. Levi's calls theirs "rigid" denim, and their iconic straight leg Levi 501 Shrink-To-Fit model is much better for the environment, and as a 100% cotton product, much harder-wearing than the cotton-and-elastene abominations that have become so popular. The old 20th century approach of putting on Levi STFs in a full bathtub and then wearing them dry, while uncomfortable and kind of strange, will yield the best-fitting pair of jeans you've ever had. Just buy two sizes up from your normal size in both waist and inseam, and then get in a hot tub while you wear them, staying there until the water has cooled. That's the most accessible raw denim experience in the world and is a great start to getting a sustainable garment today, before Levi has really fixed their processes. If you're ready for a step up, SOSO Brothers, which retails out of Sweden and manufactures in Thailand, does custom-made raw denim jeans in a variety of weights (weight here refers to the thickness of the yarn which makes the denim; Levi jeans are typically in the range of 10oz to 13oz depending on product, SOSO goes as heavy as 33oz which is ridiculous) and cuts them to fit. If you want to get into raw denim either for the looks or for the environment benefits, a pair of SOSOs is an extremely accessible way to start, especially compared to buying some Japanese brand like Iron Heart or Samurai and finding a company who knows how to chainstitch-hem them to the right inseam length.
Ok informationally i enjoyed this video but SO much of what you said about fabric is causing me psychic damage. -An "intricate weaving process known as weft and warp" this is just the definition of all weaving - warp is the threads that are vertical and are under tension during weaving, and weft is the horizontal thread that gets woven through it. The technique I'm assuming you mean is just that denim is a twill weave, where the weft passes under more threads than it has passed over, which makes a diagonal-looking pattern, and makes it more durable than a plain weave. -"6 threads become 1 giant frankenthread" thats called plying (though this one seems like a decent 'heres an ear-catching phrase for people who have never thought about fibers in their life'). -The idea that a cotton fabric starts out Not Blue, and as such would need to be dyed? Like why on earth would someone think that jeans were magically blue with no dye?
I had to buy new jeans last year because my old ones ripped in a really bad place when I was working. I went to a Levis store and said that I move and squat a lot to pick up things at my work so I wanted good strong jeans. The shopstaff told me that jeans nowadays don't actually last for physical work situations over a year??!
I’d love it if there was a place where you could specifically find alternatives to hyped, admittedly good but insanely pricey products that are just as good or even just almost as good but more affordable for the everyday person 👀
I stopped wearing jeans when it became almost impossible to buy new ones that hadn't been washed a hundred times and frayed. They look like they are pre owned thrift shop items. I find cargo pants to be more practical and comfortable now.
I'm glad you confirmed my theory that pants don't get dirty unless they're stained. I often wear the same, unwashed, pair of pants for months and they really don't get gross and smelly like underwear, socks or shirts do.
Levis are definetely not worthy for quite some time. My last two Levis got holes after only 1 year of use. Considering the price and that they are not the quality they say, it is better to go with cheaper alternatives or to find another brand that indeed makes quality jeans.
To be honest I find blended materials to last longer in practice, maybe they have less abrasion resistance, but regular jeans get things like splits or holes in the crotch, more stretchy materials handle this better it seems like.
wow, they still have stores? i haven't been to one since i went to one in the Richmond, VA area c. 2009. i was lucky enough to stock up on a bunch of stuff 2002-2003 from the outlet malls they had in Darien, GA and St.Augustine, FL before they closed them.
I grew up in the SF Bay Area and have worn Levi's since I was young. Back in the day, there was only shrink-to-fit and you could wear a pair for years. I wash my jeans as I wear them and as they fade or wear down at the seams I keep using them. I don't wear them for fashion but for the utility they provide.
Quick note! 1. Raw denim can be Unsanforized or Sanforized. Sanforized textiles don't shrink significantly in the wash, usually the only shrink they get is on seams, where the thread of those stitches contract, and obviously, when washed and dried, they return to more or less their manufactured size, but no more Unsanforized textiles shrink A LOT, and that's what Levi's STF 501s are, they're technically an inferior textile marketed with a fun gimmick. 2. Washing denim is actually pretty important, because not washing them allows small particulate matter to erode the threads of the denim from inside the garment, weakening the material substantially! For the eco conscious of you, I'd recommend buying raw sanforized jeans with minimal to no synthetic material (Wrangler 13MWZs are a good example, and they're inexpensive), and then just washing them yourself after a few days of wear, or when they get visible dirt of some kind on them. They'll start out stiff, but they will become very comfortable after a couple of wears, I assure you!
My last two pair of jeans were Costco Kirkland, they are washed and treated very little. I paid $3 per pair on clearance. I think the stretch fabrics are comfortable and look good but don’t last long and are prone to rips and tears.
As a fairly fit guy, it’s really hard for me to get the right pair. Since God blessed me with thick legs, an average jean last less than a year. Ripping mostly between the crotch. I would have buy sizes larger than my actual waist, but it would look really baggy on me. It wasn’t until I found Athletic Jeans, and never went back to regular. Granted I have like 5 pairs but when you finally have jeans that fits you perfectly, I wanted a good variety for different combinations and to last longer.
I typically buy the cheapest pair of black skinny jeans in H&M and then wear them almost exclusively for about 2 years, as I wear out any type of clothes real quick. I have had Levi's but they had holes in them after a year, so I just don't see the value of fancy jeans.
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I do not buy second-hand, as this type of store is not common in my country and the ones that exist sell very old clothes. That said, the last two jeans I bought were to replace the ones I've worn for 10 years that were no longer suitable for the workplace. However, I still have them, one pair of jeans began to be used for renovations at home and the other was transformed into shorts by the seamstress in the neighborhood where I live. I still own and wear a denim jacket I bought about 20 years ago. The clothes I stopped wearing and are still in good condition I usually donate to people I know or to institutions that then distribute them to those in need.
Levi’s 511s are my shit. Funnily enough though.. when I was in Santa Monica I went to the Levi’s store and got the premium denim pair for like $150 and they are comfy .. pocket tore the second I put my phone in.
I've bought my first pair of Levi's jeans around month ago in the Levi's outlet. They were made for outlet (there was a MFO tag on it). Are these jeans supposed to be in the original quality or are they expected to last less?
The ones in the outlet are the same that are sold at Macy's and Kohl's. The quality will depend on the style and fabric more than anything. 100% cotton 501s and 505s will last a while, but something thin and stretchy probably won't.
For me personally, any jeans that are factory bleached, distressed, stonewashed, sandblasted, or treated with lasers are just wrong. I didn’t realize how much these processes harm the environment. If it were up to me, I would legally ban the excessive processing of denim. I would produce dark blue, black, and gray jeans, and if someone wants to create a circus with their jeans, they can do it at home. Personally, I wash my jeans every few wears, and since I like to keep the color of my pants looking fresh, I dye them every 3-6 months. But that's just me. Best regards
All right that's interesting. I don't find the quality that amazing to be honest. I just bought a pair which had a hole in the side because of a loose seeam. This of course was a manufacturing error and not due to wear. Luckily I got my money back (in a voucher, but still). I have another pair that I have been using for less than two years and I just noticed a hole in the crotch area. I suppose this is a place were different parts come together and thus a real weak point. I'm still a bit disappointed though. This shouldn't happen so soon. I do believe the overall the pair is of decent quality, so I will try to get it fixed. The Levi's webiste from my country doesn't mention anything about repair unfortunately. I will have to bring it to a tailor.
There are lots of Levi's counterfeit, so be wary of buying them cheap from non official store or thrift shop. But if you don't really care, then it's okay.
A group around the world not wearing denim = where I work. A mental health charity. We are not allowed to wear denim to work. Yes please Levi son of son of The Maestre Levi I will gladly accept the gift card. I love Levis and have worn them for decades…on my days off.
Yeah. I tend to only wash my jeans if I spill something on them, or every few months when they start smelling musty. And I wear them every day except in the summer when I swap to jorts.
I'm bias because i used to work for Levi's and made those jeans we all know and love. I have fond memories of sewing those back pockets and attaching that little red label. Of coursr i only wear Levi's jeans (550s) and would have anyway because i grew up wearing them too and i love how they fit.
Though I grew up in the city where Levi's is based, it was Ben Davis and Dickies that were considered "proper" workwear. Ben Davis might make an interesting episode, how they went from legit working class attire to Hypebeast-fancy collab with Supreme. Ben Davis is also from SF. And if you go down that rabbit hole, you should also look into the history of Derby jackets.
idc what people say about not washing their jeans. i wash mine after every damn wear. i have many pairs that have lasted 5 plus years. the fact the put these threw 100s of washes to get the desired color should be enough to show that they will last just fine b
Imma say levis jeans are worth it I have like 7-8 pairs of jeans and ive been usin them for like 6-7 years They are just durable and look as good I have no regret buyin em
I've never worn.Levi's, but I keep hearing some positive things about it. It's made with high quality materials. It probably explains why it got so popular over time.
Long Explanation: Only the more expensive ones (Made & Crafted) are worth a damn. The stretchy mainline ones - while they may last longer than your average pair of h&m or Walmart jeans - are not actually jeans, they’re just stretchy cotton pants that look like jeans. 501CTs were supposed to be mainline Levi’s in between for nice tapered Levi’s that were 100% cotton and didn’t cost what Made & Crafted costs, but the crotches of 3 separate pure cotton jeans I got of CTs blew out before any of the knees did, and within a few months of one another at that. The craziest thing is seeing designer brands copy Levi’s stretchy cheapness and upcharging sometimes hundred of dollars (I’m looking at you, Purple Brand). Frankly, no other brand of denim has blown out on me more than Levi’s jeans, even stretchy ones. Fit is different for everyone, but the only Levi’s that didn’t totally bite the dust on me in the past 10 years were a pair of slim shuttle loom selvedge Made&Crafted Levi’s. You’re best to try for a pair on eBay auction though - they’re just too expensive for what you’re getting when you can get nice, ethically made denim products that will last years longer across the board from Japan - and for equal or lesser retail prices than Levi’s. Research small batch denim if you want jeans made with more science, and less corporate-beholden image.
I stopped buying them a number of years ago. The quality has gone to crap. The top inside corner of each rear pocket gives way and soon tears right down to the bottom. They don't even last six months anymore. Garbage and a waste of money.
Levi has an awesome pair of jeans, that has stretchable fabric, while still being rugged enough for my job. As a truck driver up and down steps, up and down trailers, traditional jeans always tore at the crotch. But these jeans move with me and I love them.
I honestly never wore anything from Levi's so I have no first hand experience, but the way they sell their products for 2-3 times their actual price in Europe and a lot of concerns regarding their quality and longevity throughout the last 5 years are firmly keeping me away. I am aware that they also offer some raw denim for typical raw denim prices, but given what I've heard I'd still rather stick with proven raw denim brands if this was what I was looking for. Also recently found came across their "Emerson" boots on Amazon and man, those reviews paint a bleak picture. I am fully aware of the downsides of sub 200$ leather boots/shoes, but those in particular are genuinely terrible quality for 120$. Though buying shoes from a fashion brand and vice versa is almost always a bad decision. I guess Levi's is just one of those brands that is simply too popular for me to trust in. If it appeals to the masses in this day and age there will almost certainly be a catch.
FYI: Levi Strauss never had any children; hence, our host is pulling our leg about his “grandpappy”🤣
Sounds like some misinformation to me 🧐😉
@@FutureProofTV LOL🙀
Thank you! I really was not watching so he said it so deadpan I wasn't certain 😅
Grandpa from the 1800s? Levi must be 34 tops. I'm 60 and my grandfather was born in 1900.
Technically even if a said grandparent founded a company the chances that it would remain in the family is very low. In fact if not outright losing control by selling or having lost controlling percentage amount of shares namely 51% as that would be the lowest possible amount in which you could consider to not have to ask anyone else opinions as your vote would outright beat everyone 😅. So if anything I would think you would as say grandson be angry as you would have probably only dividends or the buyout money if anything and nothing to do with the company
For a lot of people in third world country like mine, Levis jeans are considered premium. People tend to save up and spend "big" on a pair of levis that will last for minimum 2 years instead of buying cheaply made and easy to toss H&M or Zara or some Turkish/chinese brand. In here if you want a jeans that will last, you get levis.
Levis last a lot tho, i have one jean that i bought in 14 and been using regularly and they are still great
7 years here..
@@Cholitowoof exactly that’s why they are highly regarded in here.
@@KunalDuttKDUTT 7 years in the same size of denim … kudos
but the best part is that they do last really long! I bought my favourite pair of levi's in 2015 and they are still going strong in 2023!
when levi said his daddy owned the company for a second i actually believed that was his real dad
I heard it's true...
I got me for a second too 😅
Same here dw
Same lol, is it really true Levi? Is it?
Got into raw denim out of frustration from my jeans being useless in a year then came across a Levi’s black label on sale. Never going back. Good video as usual.
Japanese brands that do raw AND selvedge jeans are chef’s kiss. Yeah, they’re $200 but they’re going to outlive me
Dang that's cool to know, are they comfy tho?
@@FutureProofTV it depends on which one you get the heavy ones are uncomfortable at first but the mid weight and light are easy.
@@MomoMKDAO naked & famous is amazing I was just at their store in NYC a few weeks ago and fell in love.
Wore Levi's 501s to school starting in the mid-1960s. Just $5 a pair would get me through years of work (warehouses, truck driving, etc.) and wear before they shredded. Still wearing a pair from back in the 2000s, probably time to get started on my final pair 😂😂
That's so cool how long they've held up for ya!
If they last you that long, a pair of durable jeans might be the more sustainable option haha
@@maxresdefault_ Yes, that amount of time in one pair is the value. Also, use an old pair to patch the new pair.
@@FutureProofTV More sustainable, too, especially when patched from worn pairs.
I was just thinking about my first pair of 501’s in the late 70’s and the fact that they cost $12.50. 😂 I love that yours were only $5.00.
As a Levi's lover, I've been waiting for this episode. I buy jeans second hand and you can buy used Levi's from any charity shop for like £25
I bought mine for $15
@@mariobejares8273 eveyrthing is cheap in US. samsung phones, casio watches and levi jeans. Lucky sod
Different jeans brands fit slightly differently, and Levi's is one of the only brands I have tried that has that "perfect fit" for me. I have three different pairs that I rotate along with other trousers depending on the "style of the day". I only wash my jeans once a week, but that's because I only do laundry once a week.
This is precisely why so many people swear by them, their fits are consistent and haven't changed much throughout the years. Thanks for adding to the conversation here!
Specially the 501 that is the perfect pair of jeans ever made. Perfect in every single way not too big and not too small or tight just on the perfect size.
For me it's Jack and Jones. Pretty of space where it's important and they fit the best.
You wash your jeans once a week? I never wash them unless they're obviously dirty and can't be cleaned with a sponge.
He talks about the writers so much that I’m convinced there is no team
I’ve bought only Levi’s jeans since the late 80s - I like the fit, the quality, and because I tend to buy secondhand, the price and durability. I’ve bought other brands as well, but always come back to Levi’s, because they just work for me.
Here in India, the quality of Levis jeans is shite. After a week of usage stretched patches appear around the crotch due to low quality lycra.
When I was a kid, 501’s could definitely stand up on their own. Lol We had to wash them at home multiple times, usually with bleach, to get them soft enough to really wear. Those pants lasted forever. I think I still have a couple of pairs that I bought in the 80’s.
Glad I watched til the end🤣 I thought your family really owned the company 🤣
I don't think Levi would be running a youtube channel if he owned the largest pant company on earth 😂😂😂
if anyone's looking for durable jeans look for something made in japan or made out of denim woven in japan. that's the good stuff.
similar to well made leather shoes they need to be broken in a bit since they are stiff and heavy but they last much longer than the thin jeans other companies make
they might look a bit "old school" to some people though, they often don't use modern fits like slim or skinny
and they are way pricier
this is the comment I had to make sure was here
GREAT comment! Thank you for taking the time to share some value here!
I find the 501 jeans or the Levi's made in Egypt are superior to the Levi's made in other countries because Egyptian cotton is the highest quality in the world.
most of the bigger brands make slim fit. Momotaro, Japan Blue, Naked and Famous etc...not sure about skin tight though.
@@GrandmasterkillerMany of the Japanese brands use cotton from African countries because it is grown like it was 100 years ago. It's long fiber as well, like Egyptian. Really it just comes down to knowing the product you're buying
For what it's worth, I've been wearing a pair of Levi's for 6 years since 2017, and though they look worn out a bit and have a hole, they are mostly doing fine. So yeah you don't have to change jeans every year. Still the original raw jeans would have lasted longer :)
I have a pair that has lasted for 7 years, and last week it gave out, a hole on the right knee. It was distressed. Had it been raw, I bet it could have lasted 10 years.
Wearing jeans with holes that you put in yourself vs pre-distressed ones is way cooler anyway... Plus now you have the opportunity patch them up with more denim or a cool fabric of choice! Win win in our book
People pay extra for holes, you know.
If you know anyone with a sewing machine, patching jeans is super easy. I keep my kids out grown jeans to use as patch material because thunder thighs.
wearing some i bought in 2006
future proof has quickly become my favorite channel, and for the most part the reason i go on youtube:)
That's so fantastic!!! We love seeing comments like this, thank you for taking time out of your day to join us here 🤗
I bought some 501s in 2015 and still wear them to this DAY ! TO THIS DAY ! and honestly still look great ..
I only wear the denim from my youth (I’m 44; your generation horrifically refers to our jeans as “Mom Jeans”) because they’re still good, since they’re 100% denim. I still have jeans from high school (class of ‘96!) that don’t have any holes in them
the most impressive part about this is that you still FIT into your teenage/tweens size
As someone who own a lot of Levi blue jeans, I have to say the quality and brand name is great but alternative are starting to catch my eye. My main problem is with cheaper denim I find that the color fades faster. My experience is with H&M jeans
I have a few pairs of 100% cotton Levi’s, all bought second hand for less than 10 Australian dollars apiece. All of them are holding up well after years of wear. I think the 100% cotton is the key- spandex and elastane seem to make garments wear out faster.
For me Levi’s quality control is the worst part about them especially with sizing. I could pick up several different washes and it is likely only one would actually fit me.
Also it frustrates me so much how if a big guy wants to go and buy a more expensive quality pair of jeans like the Mud Jeans, they never do sizing above waist 38 - I personally love spending on quality products and I just can’t spend my money on them due to lack of availability.
All woven fabric has a weft and warp. Weft are the threads that are parallel to the selvedge and warp is perpendicular to the selvedge. Denim is a cotton twill fabric.
I still have 3 pairs of Levi's that my mom bought me in my junior year of high school. They had to hang in the closet for about 2 years because I gained some weight, but are now back in action...yeah!
By the way, I was a junior in...drum roll...1978!
Yes, that means I'm an old dude, in years, but not in my heart. And I have worn jeans ~98% of the time my whole life.
But never, ever, no way in hell, jean shorts...ugh!
I don’t like shorts either, but I have to wear them outside when it’s hot or else I’m going to get a heat stroke
I used to blow through regular denim Levi's all the time, the stretchy ones while the material isn't as durable, tend to not wear out at the same hotspots that previous ones did. Although I find different color stretchy ones of the same model have different amounts of stretch which is weird
That's interesting about the different amounts of stretch depending on colour. Thanks for sharing, Andrew!
The beauty of a pair of Levi's, especially with the 501 model is the anti-fit back rise. For guys that keep themselves fit (Think- Lean athletic build), the 501 rise and straight leg cut gives the wearer the most aesthetically pleasing silhouette. Whether you wear them a size down for that close to body fit or a size up for that relax summer vibe, the classic pair of 501 always never fail to exude a great overall look. For the average male from dads to muscular body builders to construction workers to college adolescents, the 501 has an appeal that spread across masculine ruggedness, true Americana vintage history and popular current culture. No other brand has come close to how Levi's has marketed the original denim overalls into an everyday modern day pair of jeans that is infused in street culture, music and just plain cool vibes. Its one of the undeniable iconic pair of jeans in denim trouser history.
(I am not affiliated to LEVI'S btw)
Thank you for including the Dr Evil clip. Saved me from needing to look it up.
Seriously shoutout to the writing team for this one 🙏🏻🙏🏻
In Leah’s defense, I’m 90% sure in Goldmember Dr Evil does say “Frickin laserbeams attached to their frickin heads.” So you’re both right, depending on which movie.
My Wednesday mornings hit different now since i found you guys about a couple months ago. Good stuffs. Keep it up.
Woah, thanks so much! Happy to have you on board here 🤩
Growing up my grandfather considered Levi’s to be the best of the best. This was back in the 50’s. Less fortunate folks would wear a pear of Lee’s or something else. I’ve worn Levi’s but I especially enjoy my jeans from Lucky Brand and Banana Republic.
Back in the late 60s we were all wearing 546 Levi's bell bottoms. My mom told me to get a pair of 501 shrink-to-fit jeans, I did, and I loved the fit and the way they faded. So that is what I have been wearing ever since. From the start I studied my Levi's and was fascinated how well they were designed and made (I am an engineer). So I began collecting them and have way too many. I always get dark denim because they produce a beautiful fade and I think pre-faded jeans look phony, like a fake convertible top. My favorite 501 STFs are the ones made between 1993-1999. They have the best fit and use the best denim. I bought a lifetime supply back then because they were inexpensive and I figured they couldn't get any better, and boy was I right. I still have a couple dozen in storage that are new with tags.
I also collected all the other models like 505s, 569s, 517s, 514s, Silver tabs, etc. to have a complete collection. The Silver tabs had the best quality heavy denim in Levi's history. My special Levi's include a like new 1970s 501 redlines, early 1980s NWT 501 redlines, black leather 501s, a bunch of single pocket Type 3 jackets some with Big E and a suede one, a 76 inch waist 501 that was a store display, and miscellaneous LVC reproductions like a Type 1 buckleback jacket, and buckleback 501s. I got many of my rare Levi's items on ebay when it first appeared in the late 1990s.
By 2000 Levi's was under stress due to very cheap competition. They had to adapt and that meant moving production overseas and using inferior lightweight denim. The fit of the 501s was loosened, that would cause the middle button to sometimes pop open, and they just didn't fit me well like all previous 501s. Since I have over 100 pairs that are new or in different states of wear, I quit buying Levis's 20 years ago when they became mediocre.
I liked this video.
Impressive collection! You are sitting on a gold mine $$$.
@@Guest-c1v heh heh *sitting on*
lierally
I’ve been on a crazy Levi’s kick as of late. I typically buy Levi’s 511, but I wanted to try new cuts and styles. Think I’m gonna starting wearing 512’s
I in fact, am not wearing pants.
As a mom of two babies, my jeans get washed weekly due to my kids using them as a Kleenex 😩
oh yucky 😅🤮
I inherited my mom’s Levi’s from the late 90s - I was about 6-7yo at that time & my brother was a baby. I’m pretty sure I used her jeans as kleenex too at some point but I’m gonna wear mom’s jeans with pride 😅
So glad I watched the entire video all the way to the last frame.
Otherwise I'd be googling this question afterwards. 😂
The most durable denim brands: Levis Vintage Collection, Real Mccoys, Edwin, Rag & Bone, Unbranded Brand, APC, Nudie Jeans Co, Naked & Famous
As soon as you said your daddy owned the company I thought "but your last name is Hildebrand.... And you live in Canada..." Can't pull a fast one on me.
Smarty pants over here figured us out, rats!
@@FutureProofTV I wasn't even wearing my smarty pats. Just plain khakis because my boss hates jeans.
@@benjaminlampp1993 Sounds like a bad boss
@@Grandmasterkiller I don't know that'd I'd disagree.
In Peru, the cheapest locally made jeans cost $10 and most people pays $10-20 for a pair of jeans. Also, common inseam's size starts at 26", but Levis jeans cost $70-80 with 30"+ inseams, so Levis is a premium brand here and not so popular.
The current Levi's use very thin fabric. They are cheap/disposable, and definitely not future proof. Much better options in the US.
70-80''s were the best Levi's quality-production years, both quality and fit. Just my opinion!
Yeah, we can tell it's just your opinion
It explains why they're so coveted by vintage-lovers!
Nearly every pair of Levi's I bought in the 1970s eventually ended up as cutoffs because, well, they wore out in the knees relatively quickly. Been wearing Levi's for 50 year. I love them, but they are the least durable pants I have ever owned. Seeing how today, men should never be seen wearing jeans cutoffs, when my Levi's rip, as they always do, they just get tossed.
This is true because they were made Selvedge up until the 80s I believe!
@K.M.V S 40 pairs? That's a full blown collection!
I worked for LS&Co in the 80s. And our business cards and stationery was made from denim.
Raw denim became a hyperfocus for me close to ten years ago. Three things I want more people to know, which this video didn't talk about:
1. More than microbes, dust ant dirt are the concern. if you want your jeans to last, it's important to wash them when they become visibly soiled with dust, ash, or mud. You definitely don't need to wash them every time you wear them, but dirt and grit working its way into the cotton fibers composing denim is what causes distress.
2. Putting your jeans in the dryer, more than washing them, is what kills them. Turn them inside out before washing, then hang-dry them waistband-down, and they'll last like 10 times as long. If you don't want the jeans to fade as quickly, I really recommend Woolite Dark for your detergent.
3. If you don't want your jeans to shrink, look for "sanforized" or "one wash" jeans. These have been given contact with water once, after the denim comes off the loom and before it's cut into jeans, to pre-set the majority of the shrinkage the jeans will ever incur.
This video talks about it mostly as a thing of the past, but there are a lot of companies still doing raw and nearly-raw denim, even Levi's. Levi's calls theirs "rigid" denim, and their iconic straight leg Levi 501 Shrink-To-Fit model is much better for the environment, and as a 100% cotton product, much harder-wearing than the cotton-and-elastene abominations that have become so popular. The old 20th century approach of putting on Levi STFs in a full bathtub and then wearing them dry, while uncomfortable and kind of strange, will yield the best-fitting pair of jeans you've ever had. Just buy two sizes up from your normal size in both waist and inseam, and then get in a hot tub while you wear them, staying there until the water has cooled. That's the most accessible raw denim experience in the world and is a great start to getting a sustainable garment today, before Levi has really fixed their processes.
If you're ready for a step up, SOSO Brothers, which retails out of Sweden and manufactures in Thailand, does custom-made raw denim jeans in a variety of weights (weight here refers to the thickness of the yarn which makes the denim; Levi jeans are typically in the range of 10oz to 13oz depending on product, SOSO goes as heavy as 33oz which is ridiculous) and cuts them to fit. If you want to get into raw denim either for the looks or for the environment benefits, a pair of SOSOs is an extremely accessible way to start, especially compared to buying some Japanese brand like Iron Heart or Samurai and finding a company who knows how to chainstitch-hem them to the right inseam length.
Ok informationally i enjoyed this video but SO much of what you said about fabric is causing me psychic damage.
-An "intricate weaving process known as weft and warp" this is just the definition of all weaving - warp is the threads that are vertical and are under tension during weaving, and weft is the horizontal thread that gets woven through it. The technique I'm assuming you mean is just that denim is a twill weave, where the weft passes under more threads than it has passed over, which makes a diagonal-looking pattern, and makes it more durable than a plain weave.
-"6 threads become 1 giant frankenthread" thats called plying (though this one seems like a decent 'heres an ear-catching phrase for people who have never thought about fibers in their life').
-The idea that a cotton fabric starts out Not Blue, and as such would need to be dyed? Like why on earth would someone think that jeans were magically blue with no dye?
Hearing Levi say "process" so many times in this video might be one of the most Canadian things I have ever heard. My grandpappy was Canadian, btw. 😹
I had to buy new jeans last year because my old ones ripped in a really bad place when I was working. I went to a Levis store and said that I move and squat a lot to pick up things at my work so I wanted good strong jeans. The shopstaff told me that jeans nowadays don't actually last for physical work situations over a year??!
I’d love it if there was a place where you could specifically find alternatives to hyped, admittedly good but insanely pricey products that are just as good or even just almost as good but more affordable for the everyday person 👀
LEE & Levi's have been popular for between 115 and 150 years respectively both founded in the mid-late 19th century 1853 and 1889 respectively
Lee Jeans are owned by Wrangler Jean Co.
Fun fact: denim and most fabrics are sprayed with polyester to last long in general besides having a blend in the fabric
I stopped wearing jeans when it became almost impossible to buy new ones that hadn't been washed a hundred times and frayed. They look like they are pre owned thrift shop items.
I find cargo pants to be more practical and comfortable now.
my apology for correction - Frankenstein is not the monster, it is the man who created it
You've made a video on Fjällräven, now we need a video on Lundhags
I'm glad you confirmed my theory that pants don't get dirty unless they're stained. I often wear the same, unwashed, pair of pants for months and they really don't get gross and smelly like underwear, socks or shirts do.
Levis are definetely not worthy for quite some time. My last two Levis got holes after only 1 year of use. Considering the price and that they are not the quality they say, it is better to go with cheaper alternatives or to find another brand that indeed makes quality jeans.
Would be nice to make podcast episodes of future proof!
Beautiful video Mr. Strauss! 😂😉
Btw just so u know... Jacob Davis was born in Latvia. (Back then Latvia was part of the russian empire... But the city was still called Riga)
The reason I treasure my jeans and never wash them...unless they have layers of mud on them. Thanks for ALL your videos g.g.g. grandson!
👏Nudie👏Jeans👏 look them up!
To be honest I find blended materials to last longer in practice, maybe they have less abrasion resistance, but regular jeans get things like splits or holes in the crotch, more stretchy materials handle this better it seems like.
Great video. I went to the Levi store the other day and it was overwhelming with all the styles. This was very helpful. Thank you
wow, they still have stores? i haven't been to one since i went to one in the Richmond, VA area c. 2009. i was lucky enough to stock up on a bunch of stuff 2002-2003 from the outlet malls they had in Darien, GA and St.Augustine, FL before they closed them.
Are nudie jeans more sustainable? In Europe they have a free repair service and they use organic cotton exclusively
I grew up in the SF Bay Area and have worn Levi's since I was young. Back in the day, there was only shrink-to-fit and you could wear a pair for years. I wash my jeans as I wear them and as they fade or wear down at the seams I keep using them. I don't wear them for fashion but for the utility they provide.
3:25 It’s Dr. Frankenstein’s monster, not Frankenstein the monster. 🤖
In a way Frankenstein was the real monster
Never owned a pair of Levi’s😂 actually, never even really liked jeans until my sophomore year of college😅
Sadly Levi’s is buying out old Levi’s jeans from thrift stores. Doubling the price and sadly can’t even try them on
I just got my second hand Wrangler jeans and I love them. Just don't know how do you rank them on the coolness ladder 😮
They are one slot above the bottom rung, but they sure are comfy, aren't they?
Also, who cares about the coolness factor.
Quick note!
1. Raw denim can be Unsanforized or Sanforized. Sanforized textiles don't shrink significantly in the wash, usually the only shrink they get is on seams, where the thread of those stitches contract, and obviously, when washed and dried, they return to more or less their manufactured size, but no more
Unsanforized textiles shrink A LOT, and that's what Levi's STF 501s are, they're technically an inferior textile marketed with a fun gimmick.
2. Washing denim is actually pretty important, because not washing them allows small particulate matter to erode the threads of the denim from inside the garment, weakening the material substantially!
For the eco conscious of you, I'd recommend buying raw sanforized jeans with minimal to no synthetic material (Wrangler 13MWZs are a good example, and they're inexpensive), and then just washing them yourself after a few days of wear, or when they get visible dirt of some kind on them. They'll start out stiff, but they will become very comfortable after a couple of wears, I assure you!
Well worth it. I find them on sale at the bay in Canada for $40. A pair easily last 5+ years or more.
When he said I am probably wearing Levi’s, I proudly adjusted my $12 Rustler Wrangler jeans 😂
My last two pair of jeans were Costco Kirkland, they are washed and treated very little. I paid $3 per pair on clearance. I think the stretch fabrics are comfortable and look good but don’t last long and are prone to rips and tears.
Bought my first Levi's in 2008, still looking new today
As a fairly fit guy, it’s really hard for me to get the right pair. Since God blessed me with thick legs, an average jean last less than a year. Ripping mostly between the crotch. I would have buy sizes larger than my actual waist, but it would look really baggy on me.
It wasn’t until I found Athletic Jeans, and never went back to regular. Granted I have like 5 pairs but when you finally have jeans that fits you perfectly, I wanted a good variety for different combinations and to last longer.
I typically buy the cheapest pair of black skinny jeans in H&M and then wear them almost exclusively for about 2 years, as I wear out any type of clothes real quick. I have had Levi's but they had holes in them after a year, so I just don't see the value of fancy jeans.
I do not buy second-hand, as this type of store is not common in my country and the ones that exist sell very old clothes. That said, the last two jeans I bought were to replace the ones I've worn for 10 years that were no longer suitable for the workplace. However, I still have them, one pair of jeans began to be used for renovations at home and the other was transformed into shorts by the seamstress in the neighborhood where I live. I still own and wear a denim jacket I bought about 20 years ago. The clothes I stopped wearing and are still in good condition I usually donate to people I know or to institutions that then distribute them to those in need.
Levi’s 511s are my shit. Funnily enough though.. when I was in Santa Monica I went to the Levi’s store and got the premium denim pair for like $150 and they are comfy
.. pocket tore the second I put my phone in.
I've bought my first pair of Levi's jeans around month ago in the Levi's outlet. They were made for outlet (there was a MFO tag on it). Are these jeans supposed to be in the original quality or are they expected to last less?
The ones in the outlet are the same that are sold at Macy's and Kohl's. The quality will depend on the style and fabric more than anything. 100% cotton 501s and 505s will last a while, but something thin and stretchy probably won't.
One word: HEMP!!! No seriously, I have 2 LEVI'S shirts made of cottonized HEMP and they're great!!
I think jeans are going to be less and less popular, they don’t got the comfort of other clothes and are very bulky compared to sweat pants and shorts
I don't think jeans is gonna go out of style anytime soon
For me personally, any jeans that are factory bleached, distressed, stonewashed, sandblasted, or treated with lasers are just wrong. I didn’t realize how much these processes harm the environment. If it were up to me, I would legally ban the excessive processing of denim. I would produce dark blue, black, and gray jeans, and if someone wants to create a circus with their jeans, they can do it at home. Personally, I wash my jeans every few wears, and since I like to keep the color of my pants looking fresh, I dye them every 3-6 months. But that's just me. Best regards
Frankenstein is the scientist. Not the monster. =]
All right that's interesting.
I don't find the quality that amazing to be honest. I just bought a pair which had a hole in the side because of a loose seeam. This of course was a manufacturing error and not due to wear. Luckily I got my money back (in a voucher, but still).
I have another pair that I have been using for less than two years and I just noticed a hole in the crotch area. I suppose this is a place were different parts come together and thus a real weak point. I'm still a bit disappointed though. This shouldn't happen so soon. I do believe the overall the pair is of decent quality, so I will try to get it fixed. The Levi's webiste from my country doesn't mention anything about repair unfortunately. I will have to bring it to a tailor.
There are lots of Levi's counterfeit, so be wary of buying them cheap from non official store or thrift shop. But if you don't really care, then it's okay.
He commits to the bit. I respect it
A group around the world not wearing denim = where I work. A mental health charity. We are not allowed to wear denim to work. Yes please Levi son of son of The Maestre Levi I will gladly accept the gift card. I love Levis and have worn them for decades…on my days off.
I've owned couple jeans made with recycled materials, and they are terrible they literally start to fall part after couple of months
I prefer Diesel for some reason Levi's dont fit me well since im tall and slender
Different stokes for different folks right!?
same here. Diesel jeans have always fit me perfectly.
@@FutureProofTV Absolutley. Only downside is going for Diesel is a lot more stressful on my wallet...
@@AlexSquared And they have more rock n roll models which I find stylish
Levi's is probably one of the best clothing company ever
Yeah. I tend to only wash my jeans if I spill something on them, or every few months when they start smelling musty. And I wear them every day except in the summer when I swap to jorts.
Dang he had a glow up from that Hydro Flask video I was linked from, that facial hair and hairstyle got my heart throbbing haha
Me clicking on this video while taking off a pair of Levi's Jeans:
my wardrobe is just 4 pairs of 501s of different hues and tucked in flannels. No one needs more.
I'm bias because i used to work for Levi's and made those jeans we all know and love. I have fond memories of sewing those back pockets and attaching that little red label. Of coursr i only wear Levi's jeans (550s) and would have anyway because i grew up wearing them too and i love how they fit.
Though I grew up in the city where Levi's is based, it was Ben Davis and Dickies that were considered "proper" workwear. Ben Davis might make an interesting episode, how they went from legit working class attire to Hypebeast-fancy collab with Supreme. Ben Davis is also from SF. And if you go down that rabbit hole, you should also look into the history of Derby jackets.
idc what people say about not washing their jeans. i wash mine after every damn wear. i have many pairs that have lasted 5 plus years. the fact the put these threw 100s of washes to get the desired color should be enough to show that they will last just fine b
I only buy my jeans from thrift stores because it's so hard to find jeans that don't have spandex in them anymore.
If you go to a Levi's retailer the 501 jeans and I think the 505 will always come in a 100% cotton.
@@Grandmasterkiller Good to know! I always had the impression levis ran large, so I don't know if they have a 28 waist
Imma say levis jeans are worth it
I have like 7-8 pairs of jeans and ive been usin them for like 6-7 years
They are just durable and look as good
I have no regret buyin em
Read the description. I had to return their black denim jacket when i found out it's not 100% cotton.
I've never worn.Levi's, but I keep hearing some positive things about it. It's made with high quality materials. It probably explains why it got so popular over time.
Quality and durability is the name of the game!!
Long Explanation:
Only the more expensive ones (Made & Crafted) are worth a damn. The stretchy mainline ones - while they may last longer than your average pair of h&m or Walmart jeans - are not actually jeans, they’re just stretchy cotton pants that look like jeans. 501CTs were supposed to be mainline Levi’s in between for nice tapered Levi’s that were 100% cotton and didn’t cost what Made & Crafted costs, but the crotches of 3 separate pure cotton jeans I got of CTs blew out before any of the knees did, and within a few months of one another at that. The craziest thing is seeing designer brands copy Levi’s stretchy cheapness and upcharging sometimes hundred of dollars (I’m looking at you, Purple Brand). Frankly, no other brand of denim has blown out on me more than Levi’s jeans, even stretchy ones. Fit is different for everyone, but the only Levi’s that didn’t totally bite the dust on me in the past 10 years were a pair of slim shuttle loom selvedge Made&Crafted Levi’s. You’re best to try for a pair on eBay auction though - they’re just too expensive for what you’re getting when you can get nice, ethically made denim products that will last years longer across the board from Japan - and for equal or lesser retail prices than Levi’s. Research small batch denim if you want jeans made with more science, and less corporate-beholden image.
1:57 American Denim was born from slavery. Indigo was a huge part of the slave trade. Check it. It's worth knowing.
I stopped buying them a number of years ago. The quality has gone to crap. The top inside corner of each rear pocket gives way and soon tears right down to the bottom. They don't even last six months anymore. Garbage and a waste of money.
Levi has an awesome pair of jeans, that has stretchable fabric, while still being rugged enough for my job. As a truck driver up and down steps, up and down trailers, traditional jeans always tore at the crotch. But these jeans move with me and I love them.
I honestly never wore anything from Levi's so I have no first hand experience, but the way they sell their products for 2-3 times their actual price in Europe and a lot of concerns regarding their quality and longevity throughout the last 5 years are firmly keeping me away. I am aware that they also offer some raw denim for typical raw denim prices, but given what I've heard I'd still rather stick with proven raw denim brands if this was what I was looking for.
Also recently found came across their "Emerson" boots on Amazon and man, those reviews paint a bleak picture. I am fully aware of the downsides of sub 200$ leather boots/shoes, but those in particular are genuinely terrible quality for 120$.
Though buying shoes from a fashion brand and vice versa is almost always a bad decision.
I guess Levi's is just one of those brands that is simply too popular for me to trust in. If it appeals to the masses in this day and age there will almost certainly be a catch.
yes, im literally wearing one and watching this video.