The soul of a great pair of jeans lies in its fabric. Most people have several pairs in their wardrobe, from classic cuts to trendy styles, as jeans are the ultimate versatile staple.

But have you ever noticed how some jeans lose their shape after just a few wears, some fade drastically and turn stiff after one wash, while others only look better with time? The difference in these experiences boils down to two factors: about 30% is due to the cut, but a full 70% comes down to the fabric.

First, the "heart" of jeans is the cotton. Some cotton has shorter fibers—often cheaper, but offering mediocre durability and comfort. Other cotton has longer, stronger fibers, making it soft, skin-friendly, and hard-wearing, which naturally comes at a higher cost.

Then there’s the "weight" of denim—measured in ounces (oz). This refers to the thickness of the fabric and directly influences the style and wearing experience. For summer, lightweight denim (<12 oz) is often chosen—it’s thin, soft, and breathable, but lacks structure, offers poor shaping, and is most prone to losing its form. Mid-weight denim (12–16 oz) is the most classic and widely used—suitable for all seasons, it strikes a balance between comfort, durability, and structure, making it the go-to choice for everyday consumers. Heavyweight denim (>16 oz) is known for being stiff, thick, and rigid. The downside? It can be uncomfortable to break in and isn’t ideal for hot weather. This category is usually favored by denim enthusiasts and those pursuing vintage aesthetics.

Another key to comfort is stretch. All-cotton jeans have no stretch—they mold to your body over time, offering a personalized fit. Jeans with elastic fibers, on the other hand, provide greater freedom of movement and accommodate different body shapes more easily, but they tend to lose shape faster and are less durable in the long run.

In the end, choosing the right fabric comes down to the wearer’s needs and personal style—there’s no “best,” only what’s right for you.