Fade of the Day – Lee Japan Riders 200-0341 (2 Years, 2 Washes)

Yee-haw! Today’s Fade of the Day is a pair of  Japan-exclusive ’70s boot-cut Lee Riders 200-0341 jeans, which were made with dead stock Cone Mills denim, and come to us courtesy of Heddels reader Troy Kimura, of California.

Troy, who spent the last 10 years in Japan, tried to wear these as much as possible, which is made clear just from myriad item-specific fades—such as the iPhone outline in the front left pocket, a Zippo outline in the front right pocket, and the wallet outline in the back pocket. These Lee’s have dirty fades for days and some nice long and wispy whiskers. The natural color has become noticeable in areas of heavy wear, especially the thighs and knees, and some stacking has begun around the ankles and some fraying has taken hold in the bottom hem, epitomizing that “these boot-cut’s were made for walking” look.

Although no repairs have been necessary yet, the crotch is getting really thin, so Troy plans to take his Lee’s over to the Portland Self Edge shop for a little date with the darning machine. Hopefully they hit it off!

You can find Troy on Instagram.

Lee Japan Riders 200-0341 Raw Denim Jeans

  • Fabric: 100% cottton
  • Fabric weight: 14 oz.
  • Fabric source: USA (Cone Mills)
  • Made in: USA
  • Fit: Boot cut
  • Additional Details:
    • Deadstock Cone Mills denim
    • Talon zipper fly
    • Leather patch
    • Lee arcuates
  • Available at: Currently unavailable