In a world full of fast fashion and mass-produced trends, raw denim stands apart. It’s denim at its purest—untreated, unwashed, and ready to mold to your body and your story. Whether you’re saddling up, heading into town, or clocking in at work, a great pair of raw denim jeans becomes an extension of you.
At Kimes Ranch, we believe in tradition, quality, and authenticity—and that's exactly what our raw denim styles deliver. Here's everything you need to know about why raw denim is a game-changer for your closet, and why it just might be the last pair of jeans you'll ever want to wear.
What is Raw Denim?
Raw denim (also called rigid denim) is denim fabric that has never been washed or treated after the dyeing process. Dyed with natural indigo, raw denim is stiff and uniform when you first get it, with a rich, dark color that feels almost too perfect to wear. But that's the point—raw denim is designed to change with you.
Every crease, whisker, and fade pattern is earned through time, movement, and your lifestyle. Over months (and even years), raw denim will break in uniquely to your body shape, creating a personalized fit and look that’s completely one-of-a-kind.
Why Choose Raw Denim?
If you've never owned raw denim before, you might wonder: why put up with the break-in period when pre-washed jeans are soft right off the shelf?
Raw denim isn’t just about style—it's also about durability, sustainability, and a custom fit that only gets better with time. One of the standout features of raw denim is the natural indigo dye used in its production. This dye gives raw denim its deep blue hue and is celebrated for its eco-friendly properties. If you're curious about the benefits of using natural indigo in denim, read more here about why it’s a great choice for both fashion and the environment.
Here’s some other reasons why serious denim lovers swear by raw denim:
- Custom Fit: Raw denim molds exactly to your body over time, creating a tailored feel.
- Durability: Without pre-washing or chemical treatments, the fibers stay stronger, longer.
- Unique Fading: No two pairs of raw denim fade the same. You create natural wear patterns—no fake distressing here.
- Sustainability: Fewer chemicals and less water are used compared to distressed or pre-washed denim.
- Timeless Style: Dark indigo denim never goes out of fashion. It's as classic as a white T-shirt or a good pair of boots.
Understanding the Break-In Process
Raw denim isn’t like anything else in your closet. The break-in journey is personal—and worth it. Here’s what you can expect:
First Wear:
Expect the jeans to feel stiff, even a little snug. That’s normal. As you move, the fibers start loosening up.
Initial Shrinkage:
After the first wash, your jeans will shrink slightly—about ½ inch in the waist and 1–1½ inches in length. That's why at Kimes Ranch, we recommend ordering your usual size. It may seem a little large until it is washed a couple times, then it’ll fit like your usual size.
Everyday Life:
The more you wear them, the better they get. Sitting, riding, walking, working—your life leaves its imprint.
Fade Evolution:
Over weeks and months, natural fades will form along the thighs, knees, pockets, and cuffs. These tell the story of how you live and move.
How to Care for Raw Denim
Caring for raw denim requires a little patience, but the reward is a pair of jeans that lasts for years (and looks better with each passing season).
Here are the basics:
- First Wash Timing:
- Wear your raw denim as much as possible before the first wash (often 6 months or more) to maximize your personal fading pattern.
- Washing Tips:
- When ready, wash inside out in cold water. Hang dry to prevent unnecessary shrinkage and maintain fabric integrity.
- Minimize Washes:
- Washing too frequently can break down the fibers and dull the fades. Spot clean when possible.
- Be Cautious with Dye Transfer:
- Raw denim, especially at first, can transfer excess dye onto light surfaces—like upholstery, light shirts, saddles, or shoes. Be mindful until your jeans are more broken in.
Introducing: Kimes Ranch Raw Denim Styles
At Kimes Ranch, we bring raw denim to the next level by combining classic construction techniques with modern fits and details.
Our raw denim collection is designed for real life—whether you’re at work, riding, or just living the Western lifestyle.
Raw James
The Raw James is the perfect introduction to raw denim. Designed with a mid/low rise, straight fit, and a straight boot leg, this jean wears comfortably for a variety of body types and activities.
Key Features:
- Mid/Low Rise
- Straight Fit
- Straight Boot Leg
- Integrated Knife Pocket for practical, everyday carry
- Light Stitching for a clean, classic look
- 100% Cotton
- Built with 3x1 Right Hand Twill, ring-spun 13.75 oz. denim—perfect weight for durability and comfort.
The Raw James will evolve into a true representation of you, combining tradition and modern Western heritage.
Raw Dillon
A Kimes Ranch classic, now in raw denim. The Raw Dillon offers a relaxed upper thigh and a wide boot opening—ideal for guys who like a little more room to move.
Key Features:
- Mid/Low Rise
- Relaxed Upper Thigh
- Wide Boot Leg
- Hand Sanded for subtle, natural-looking texture
- Off-White Stitch Detailing
- Integrated Knife Pocket
- 100% Cotton
- 13.75 oz. Ring-Spun Raw Denim
If you already know and love the Dillon, this raw version will elevate your denim game to the next level.
Raw Denim Fit Guide
Since raw denim shrinks to its true size after the first wash, you might think you need to size up.
Not with Kimes Ranch.
We design our raw denim so that your true Kimes Ranch size fits perfectly after break-in and the first wash.
Here’s what you can expect:
- About ½ inch shrinkage in the waist
- About 1–1½ inch shrinkage in length
So buy your typical Kimes Ranch size, wear them often, wash when necessary—and enjoy the custom fit that follows.
FAQs About Raw Denim
-
Will raw denim be uncomfortable?
It can feel stiff at first, but it softens dramatically with wear. Good things take time! -
Can I speed up the fading process?
Not really. Authentic fades happen naturally through real wear. That's the beauty of it. -
What if the dye transfers?
It’s normal early on. Be careful around light-colored upholstery and clothing until the excess indigo wears off. -
How long does it take to break in?
Most people notice major improvements in comfort after 30–60 days of regular wear. Full, deep fades often take six months or longer. -
Can I machine wash raw denim?
Yes—but always wash cold, inside out, and hang dry.
Final Thoughts: Invest in Raw Denim, Invest in Yourself
When you invest in raw denim, you’re not just buying a pair of jeans—you’re starting a journey. A pair of Kimes Ranch Raw James or Raw Dillon jeans will tell your story through every fade, every wrinkle, and every mile ridden or walked.
If you’re ready for denim that fits better, lasts longer, and becomes uniquely yours—it’s time to go raw.
Shop Kimes Ranch Raw Denim Styles Here
