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.