Your guide to heavy denim
If you have spent any time around "denim heads," you have likely noticed they talk about ounces (oz) a lot. The weight of the fabric is one of the most important factors when choosing a new pair of jeans, as it determines how the denim feels, how it fades, and how long it takes to break in.
How is Denim Weight Measured?
At Raw Denim Norway, we want to make your choice easier. That is why all the jeans in our webshop feature a Denim Weight label at the top of the product page.
Denim weight is measured in ounces per square yard of fabric. This weight can range anywhere from lightweight summer denim at 8.0 oz , all the way up to the heaviest denim ever made—a staggering 40.0 oz (check out the video below).
Which Weight Should You Choose?
The "right" weight depends on your personal preference, but here is our general expert advice:
- Lightweight (under 12 oz): Breathable and comfortable from day one. Ideal for summers. But why bother - get a pair of chinos instead.
- Mid-weight (12 oz – 17.5 oz): The classic raw denim experience. Durable, great for all-year wear, and produces excellent fades.
- Heavyweight (18 oz and up): For the dedicated enthusiast. These take longer to break in but offer incredible durability and can create high-contrast fades.
Our Recommendation: If you are buying your first pair of raw denim, we usually recommend starting with a mid-weight fabric between 12.0 oz and 15.0 oz . This gives you the authentic selvedge feel without exhausting yourself breaking them in.
Denim weight collections
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Light weight denim 8.0-11.5oz
View allLightweight denim is crafted using finer cotton threads, resulting in a thinner and more breathable fabric. These jeans offer immediate comfort from the very first wear, making them an ideal choice for warmer seasons or for those who prefer a less rigid feel.
Historically, denim was much lighter than the heavy fabrics we see today. In the early days of denim production, looms were not capable of weaving the extremely thick fabrics now favored by enthusiasts. In fact, most early denim workwear rarely exceeded 11 oz.
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Mid Weight denim 12.0-17.5oz
View allMid-weight denim is our top recommendation for anyone new to raw denim and curious about fades. Ranging from 12oz to 17oz , these fabrics offer the perfect balance between durability and year-round comfort. Substantial yet versatile, they provide that authentic "armor" feel without being too restrictive.
Enthusiasts choose mid-weight for its exceptional fading potential . The added structure allows the fabric to develop sharp, high-contrast creases like honeycombs and whiskers over time.
While a heavier pair may require a longer "break-in" period, they quickly mold to your body for a truly custom fit. Mid-weight selvedge is the most reliable choice for a character-rich pair of jeans that lasts.
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Heavy Denim 18.0-40.0oz
View allHeavyweight denim is built for the dedicated enthusiast. Ranging from 18oz to the extreme 40oz , these fabrics are significantly thicker and stiffer than standard jeans. Often referred to as "beastly" or "armored" denim, they offer unparalleled durability and a unique presence.
The primary appeal of heavyweight denim is the high-contrast fading . Because the fabric is so thick, the creases become deeper and more defined, resulting in the sharpest honeycombs and whiskers possible.
Be prepared for a substantial break-in period . These jeans require patience and commitment to soften up, but once they do, they mold perfectly to your body, creating a supersoft "second skin" you feel naked without. If you are looking for the ultimate challenge and the most dramatic fades, heavyweight is the way to go.
