Understanding the different cuts of men's jeans

Durée de lecture : 5 min

Published on 10 janvier 2024

There's no denying it: jeans are the most popular item in our wardrobe. Originally worn by workers as workwear, they have become widely popular and diversified. Today, they have become an essential garment, available in a multitude of cuts, washes and styles.

But how do you find your way around the different jean cuts and find the one that's just right for you?

We're here to help you, gentlemen, so that jeans and their variations no longer hold any secrets for you!

To begin with, a jean cut has three main characteristics:

The leg, fitted or not;
Waist height;
And the length, whether classic or ankle-length, which we call cropped or 7/8ths.

Men's jeans sizes

First and foremost, it's important to determine your morphology and choose the right size for your jeans. There are two main units of measurement for men's jeans sizes: French sizes (expressed in centimetres) and American sizes (expressed in inches). In some cases, manufacturers also use numerical sizes (S, M, L, XL, etc.). To find the size that's right for you, it's helpful to know your waist and hip measurements in centimeters.

Here's a men's jeans sizing chart to help you convert sizes by unit of measurement:

36 (S): waist 76 cm, hip 91 cm
38 (M): waist circumference 81 cm, hip circumference 97 cm
40 (L): waist circumference 86 cm, hip circumference 102 cm
42 (XL): waist circumference 91 cm, hip circumference 107 cm
44 (2XL): waist circumference 96 cm, hip circumference 112 cm
46 (3XL): waist circumference 101 cm, hip circumference 117 cm

This table may vary slightly according to brand and model. We therefore recommend consulting the size chart provided by the manufacturer before making a purchase.

Straight jeans

Straight jeans, also known as Regular or Straight, are the most classic cut of jeans. Timeless, this fit is straight from hip to ankle, following the leg without compressing it, leaving it comfortable.

Easy to wear, Straight Jeans are highly versatile. Not only do they suit every body type, but they can also be paired with all your tops, whatever your style and desires.

Discover Straight Jeans for Men

Straight Fit Jeans

These jeans have a slimmer fit at the thighs without bulging, and a leg that's a little narrower than a classic straight fit without being tight. They're the right compromise for those looking for a well-tailored pair of jeans with just the right amount of ease.

At Freeman, our must-have is our Jimmy Jeans. This model is suitable for everyone, and is available every season in powerful washes to vary the pleasure.

Discover Men's Straight Fit Jeans

Tapered jeans

Tapered jeans are a trendy hybrid cut, halfway between straight and slim. Ample at the hips, comfortable at the thighs, fitted at the legs and tightened at the ankles, they are similar to the carrot cut. It's a casual, relaxed cut.

Discover Tapered Jeans for Men

Slim Jeans

Slim-fitting at the thighs, tightened at the ankles, Slim Jeans follow the shape of your legs and refine your silhouette. For optimum comfort, our Slim Jeans are made with elastane, making the fabric stretch so you can move freely.

Freeman's iconic Slim is the Dustee, a well-cut 5-pocket jean that fits like a glove.

Discover Slim Jeans for Men

Jeans lengths

At Freeman, we distinguish between two lengths of Jeans: the Regular length, which reaches below the ankles, and the 7/8th length, also called Cropped or floor-length, which stops above the ankles. Although Regular Jeans are the most common, Cropped Jeans are becoming increasingly popular with men. The advantage? They'll enhance your best boots!

Now that you know more about our different jeans cuts, all you have to do is explore all our models! And if you're more of a trouser person, our trouser cut guide is just waiting for you.