Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Baldwin Denim Initial Fit Review

Package from Kansas City! Rad.

Company
Baldwin started in 2009 in Kansas City and has made a big splash ever since. US made. Nice to try new things isn’t it?

Selection
Unlike my last purchase of the Tellason’s when I knew what I wanted going in, this time around I was debating between a few brands. My choices were the 3sixteen SL, Rogue Territory Stanton, Baldwin 77s, and based a recommendation from my friend at fortalitia54 Railcar Spikes. All were a slim-straight fit with indigo Japanese denim, and all were about 14oz, with the exception of Railcar, which were 11.75oz. After reading some reviews online, I went to see what I could find in the local stores. 3sixteen was available at Self Edge SF, and although I really liked the denim quality, I didn’t like it as much as the other ones. The RT Stantons were available at AB Fits, however there was nothing at all in my size so I couldn’t try anything on, but I did love the details. And as much as I wanted to try the Railcar brand, I was a bit weary due to the minimal amount of reviews available, and the lighter weight (possibly my next purchase). The Baldwin’s just felt right. They felt good. And that’s all that really matters.

Specs
14oz Kurabo denim
Indigo
Drop yoke slim-straight fit
Selvedge coin pocket



Initial Fit
The initial fit was definitely a bit tight but that is to be expected I suppose. I will probably be wearing these puppies straight from raw and not bothering with a soak due to their snugness, however that is probably a bad idea because despite being sanfornized, they will shrink about an inch in every direction. In comparison with my Tellason’s these 77’s are pretty different despite having similar fit naming: slim-straight. The Baldwin’s are more loose in the thigh while being shorter in length, so I can totally get away with a fairly small double cuff without a hem job for now. The jeans have a lower yoke than any other pair, which means that the back pockets are significantly lower. This will take some getting used to, although I can’t complain as they are technically called “the drop yoke straight.”

Details
While other brands have a lot more going on in terms of superfluous design accessories, Baldwin keeps it real simple. Stand-outs are the selvedge coin pocket, custom rivets and buttons, and the white rivet on the right back pocket. No decorative stitching. Classic patch. Clean logo. Just the essentials. The quality of craftsmanship, design, and materials is immediately noticeable. Triple stitched yoke, chain stitched hem, sturdy canvas pocket bags.

Overall I am extremely pleased with these. They fit well, and while still being somewhat tight, I’m sure after a few more days of wear they will stretch out a bit. More to come as I am already looking at some more interesting brands (Denim Demon’s from Sweden!). Stay Tuned.

Monday, March 14, 2011

Japan Relief

"This weekend, like many other people, I watched as Japan survived one of the worst recorded earthquakes of all time- only to be torn apart by the tsunamis that followed."-Corter
No doubt it was absolutely horrible. A lot of people have been wondering how and where to help. One way is to donate money to various organizations, and another way is to buy this bracelet from Corter Leather. The bracelet is $20 each with all the profits going to the Red Cross or relief to Japan. Mine's on the way, get yours now, but my no means stop your generosity there. There are many other organizations that need your help.







Monday, March 7, 2011

OG Rugby

This is possibly the manliest sport ever played, and it is awesome. Maybe we should take a cue from these fellas...

Check out this amazing blog Rugby-Pioneers








King

Connery in selvedge! I think.