Recommendation #: Levis 531 And 541
One brand I always recommend is Levis. Theyre ubiquitous, affordable, and have a ton of different models that fit every body type.
For years, my favorite jeans for athletic guys was the Levis 541 Athletic Taper. Still a great pair, by the way. I wear the 541 model exclusively, because Im not slim, and I have bigger legs .
A few years ago, Levis added a new model, the Levis 531 Athletic Slim Taper. I LOVE this pair for the slimmer yet still muscular-legged dudes.
Still made with a comfortable rise , with an athletic fit in the hips, butt, and quads, but slimmer from the knee down just a touch.
Also they seem to improve the sizing in the waist. I buy my actual size now , whereas with the 541, I had to size down one to two whole sizes.
Heres the one problem with Bonobos, however: The pants have a lower rise.
I feel like I need to keep hiking my pants up or my b-hole will be exposed. I tried several versions and I always had the same urge to pull up my pants.
It could just be my particular body proportions or build, so I suggest trying at least the Athletic fit for yourself.
The Problem With Levis Denim
I have two gripes about Levis, however.
For one, their sizing and fit is inconsistent. So if you have three pairs of Levis 541 in a 32×30the exact same size and modeltheres a good chance theyll fit differently.
Second, they seem to change model numbers often. So dont be surprised if Levis discontinues your favorite model the second you discover it.
The first pair of tapered Levis jeans I bought years ago was the 508. Its been phased out since . And this isnt the only example of Levis changing model numbers. Im sure if you Google it, youll find plenty of stories.
Levis has solidified their offering of tapered models. however:
All of these models have stretch denim fabric options. Typically its a 98/2 cotton/elastane blend, which is ridiculously comfortable. I always recommend at least 98/2 blend nowadays.
For the denim purists, there are rigid, non-stretch versions as well.
Men’s Levi’s 502 Regular Tapered
This product is not eligible for promotional offers and coupons. However, you are able to earn and redeem Kohl’s Cash and Kohl’s Rewards on this product.
Color:Native Cali
Thanks to the tailor-inspired tapered leg and stretch fabric blend, these men’s Levi’s jeans give you a more modern option to the straight-leg jeans.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Supports more sustainable cotton farming
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Don’t Miss: Relaxed Fit Jeans Women’s
What Are The Best Tapered Jeans For Your Body Type
- Have a bit more to spend, and dont mind a lower rise? Go with Bonobos jeans
- Typically wear Levis 510 or 511? Try the Levis 512 slim taper
- Usually wear Levis 501 or 505? Are you a bigger or more athletic guy? Go for the Levis 541 athletic taper or the 531 Taper, if you can find it
Thats it! Happy jeans shopping.
This post was originally published on March 2014, then republished and updated many times. Latest update was March 6, 2022 to reflect a slight change in preferences and to update links.
Levi’s Jeans 502 Regular Taper Fit Stretch Denim 295070004

Levi’s Jeans 502 Regular Taper Fit Stretch Denim 295070004
Always look for the Water-Less logo to identify products in the Water< Less Collection. Our Water< Less collection includes the classic styles you love made with a lot less water. A classic taper for every day. The 502 Regular Taper Fit Jean is roomier in the thigh with a tapered leg for a modern, casual look. The most versatile of our tapered fits, this is the jean that works for all body types.
- Sits below waist – 10.75″ front rise
- Regular fit through seat
Recommended Reading: Plus Size High Waisted Wide Leg Jeans
Levi’s Australia Men’s 502 Regular Taper Jeans
502TM Regular Taper
Levi’s® men’s 502TM regular tapered jeans are a popular, flattering yet comfortable style for men available in black or orange and light, medium or dark blue wash. With several slightly different styles of the Levi’s® 502TM tapered jeans for men available, anyone will be able to buy a pair that works for them. The best tapered jeans for men have room in the seat and follow the line of the leg, giving a modern, slim fit look without a skinny leg.Levi’s® 502TM jeans also come in larger sizes for big and tall men, offering them the chance to purchase a relaxed, streamlined pair of jeans, tapered to perfection. Designed with stretch to sit just below the waist for ultimate comfort, style with a tucked in shirt for a more formal look or keep it casual with a tee and sneakers. Levi’s® 502TM regular taper jeans are for those who value understated, quality garments.