5 Lightweight Raw Denim Jeans for Summer

Lightweight jeans have begun to catch the attention of denim heads throughout the northern hemisphere. As the temperature and humidity levels continue to climb, it is just too hot for most people to power through with heavy jeans. Sure, readers of Heddels are far less likely to ditch the denim for bermuda shorts, but even the hardcore can only take so many days of sauna-like leg sweats.

We recently explored a few lighter offerings: the Naked & Famous Natural Indigo Selvedge, the Folta & Co. 027-2x, and the 3sixteen 12 Oz. 101x. Continuing along this vein, here are five more lightweight raw denim jeans for summer. Each is under 12 Oz. and has its own distinct personality.

Momotaro 10 Oz. Lot 0305-97

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Image courtesy: DenimHeads.cz

Few companies carry the same brand pedigree as Momotaro. From seed to final stitch, this peach-loving brand does everything in house. Weighing in at 10 oz., Lot 0305-97 is one of the lightest weight and most affordable denims they’ve ever produced.

With an indigo warp and weft, the denim is beautifully solid shade of blue. Proper dedication to these should lead to some quite distinct fades. The lack of white weft also makes the orange and yellow contrast stitching – not to mention the pink inseam – really stand out, while the low tension sanforized fabric makes for minimal break-in. Momotaro tops it off with a suede patch and antiqued copper rivets.

Available at Blue Owl for $255

Naked & Famous Pineapple Selvedge Chambray

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The lightest pair on this list, at 8 oz., is also by far the most unorthodox. Taking a cue from Sugar Cane, Naked & Famous has produced a jean that uses 80% cotton and, you guessed it, 20% pineapple fibers. This should prove beneficial during inevitable bouts of perspiration.

Coming in all of N&F’s fits, these will likely have the shortest break-in period of any non-stretch jean you ever purchase. Due to their chambray selvedge nature, these have a light blue color that is almost grey, heavily contrasted by a yellow selvedge line. On the other hand, fading will likely be less drastic than standard raws. Other features found here are customary to most of Naked & Famous denim, such as silver donut buttons, a selvedge coin pocket, and the brand’s pop art female patch in black leather.

Available at Tate & Yoko for $180

Studio D’Artisan D1596

sdaIf you’re looking for a classic offering to brave the heat in, something from Studio D’Artisan is always a good choice. After decades of utilizing the same original factory they used for the first pair, one of Japan’s OGs has formed a close relationship with its manufacturers. This ensures every jean has a beautiful level craftsmanship that consistently carries out each of the flying pigs’ visions true to form.

The D1596 uses single tonal stitching on a slim-straight fit, tapering slightly from the knee down. Using pure Indigo dye has left it a slightly lighter hue than the darkest of indigo raws out there, while the all white selvedge line is clean and minimalist. Finally, the copper rivets and deerskin leather patch will age as gracefully as the denim itself. It’s already washed once, so little shrinkage should occur. At 11 Oz. this pair is the heaviest on the list.

Available at Blue in Green for $245

United Dry Goods Black/Black Selvedge

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United Stock Dry Goods aims to make high quality and simple garments at a more affordable price. The latter, at the very least, holds true, as these are the cheapest denim featured. Despite only a couple of years under their belt, the company has begun to develop a solid reputation amongst fashion pundits.

Featured in both their Slight and Narrow cuts, the Black/Black Selvedge is the perfect denim for anyone looking for the summer murdered-out look. The only thing that isn’t black on this 9oz. denim is the red selvedge line, a nice subtle accent.

Available at Blue Owl for $170

Levi’s Vintage Clothing 1920s 201 Jeans Rigid

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Lastly, for the true repro fan looking for something special, Levi’s Vintage Clothing’s 201 is right up your alley. LVC faithfully reproduces its parent company’s original products to the last detail.

The 201, which was originally offered as a more affordable option to the 501, is a loose, relaxed 10.5oz. Cone Mills denim that comes from a curious transition period for denim–belts were becoming more popular but had yet to completely replace the suspender. Consequently, the 201 sports both the buttons and loops. Other features include a paper denim patch, high curved arcuates, and cinch buckle on the rear of the waistband.

Available at Unionmade for $275

For more lightweight denim options this summer, check out our five lightweight jeans article from last June or the Heddels Scout.