Samurai Jeans S0255XX “Ushiwaka” Model 15oz Slim Tapered Jeans

[available exclusively outside of Japan]

This limited edition from samurai is available exclusively outside of Japan. It is crafted using the brands iconic 15oz “Otokogi Denim” and all the iconography of the Japanese swordsman Minamoto no Yoshitsune “Ushiwakamaru” (牛若丸).

Minamoto no Yoshitsune – Yoshitsune’s name in childhood was Ushiwakamaru (牛若丸). His older half-brother Minamoto no Yoritomo would go on to found the Kamakura shogunate. A skilful swordsman, Yoshitsune defeated the legendary warrior monk Benkei in a duel (at the Gojo Bridge). From then on, Benkei became Yoshitsune’s retainer, eventually dying with him at the Siege of Koromogawa.

These jeans are full of details inspired by this legend, such as the silver lamé selvedge ID, which symbolizes the “Katana Ha” (Samurais sword cutting edge) or the special edition natural cowhide leather patch. Other superb details include the iron made rising sun buttons or the “syogyomujo 諸行無常 ” jacquard pocket lining and back rivets. Syogyomujo is a Japanese word that means that everything is ephemeral, referring to denim evolution.

The Otokogi fabric uses 100% Texas cotton which is famous for a “rough” cotton due to its high amount of short fibers. Normally, the short fibres are removed to make a smoother fabric, but Samurai adds more short cotton fibres to make the yarn even rougher. The result is a yarn that is highly uneven in size, making the woven fabric very slubby. The weave tension has been maximized; therefore, after washing, the denim actually becomes stiffer and the weave even tighter, resulting in a pair of jeans with unprecedented “atari” (fading).

The cut is a modern slim tapered fit. The taper is aggressive so that it gives a slim-fitting silhouette while allowing for a lot of space at the thighs with a mid-high rise.

Samurai jeans have become a legend in the Japanese denim scene. Created in Osaka by Toru Nogami in 1997, Samurai represents the perfection of Japanese tradition, with its iconography of Sengoku-era Samurais and the search for the best and nothing but the best through materials, artisan garment-making techniques and unique detailing.

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