When it comes to denim, Levi’s is surely a staple brand common to countries all over the world.
Since the autumn of 2015, Circles has also begun carrying Levi’s Commuter, a line developed by Levi’s specifically for cyclists. In just a few months, it has raced up to become a staple item, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Swrve, a brand that Circles has carried for many years.
This is surely because these items are packed with the experience and sensibilities of a denim manufacturer honed over many years. It has become a standard for cyclists due to features like the pursuit of comfort while pedaling a bike, the use of fabric with excellent stretch and durability, a higher back waistband to prevent your back from being exposed in a forward-leaning riding posture, reflectors that appear when you roll up the cuffs, and loops for carrying U-locks.
As for the Levi’s Commuter, I personally wear the 511 model, and I am very fond of its well-balanced rise, the fit around the waist, and the beautiful lines down to the leg openings.
Levi’s Commuter 511 Slim / ¥10,000 (tax excluded)
The size and placement of the back pockets are also exquisite. Not only are they easy to use, but they make the silhouette of your hips look clean and your legs look longer. The arcuate stitching, one of the symbols of Levi’s, is also striking.
And here is the model known as the 522.
While the 511 is a Slim, this 522 is a Slim Taper.
Levi’s Commuter 522 Slim Taper / ¥10,000 (tax excluded)
As for the differences, it has a deeper rise and more room around the hips and thighs. However, it tapers sharply from there, so the leg opening is the same width as the 511 if you wear the same size.
The 511 has a snug fit around the waist, but the 522—even in the same size—feels a bit looser, with the sense of wearing it slightly lower on the hips. Although it has more room, when you put them on, the silhouette is just as clean and cool. This model is also recommended for people with larger hips or thicker thighs.
By the way, here is how the lines differ...
(The 522 is placed underneath, with the 511 laid on top.)
With a maximum difference of 3cm around the thighs and the same width at the leg openings, it may look like a subtle difference, but when you actually put them on, the distinction becomes quite pronounced.
Which one you prefer is entirely up to you.
Please give the Commuter series from the world-renowned Levi’s a try.