Levi’s Jeans Model Guide: What Is the Difference Between 501, 511, 502

Which Levi’s model should you choose?

Levi’s has been making jeans for more than 150 years and has created an enormous range of fits and models.

That makes second-hand Levi’s exciting – but it can also make choosing the right pair confusing.

Here is a simple guide.

Levi’s 501

Fit: Straight
Key features: Button fly, classic five-pocket design

The 501 is Levi’s most iconic model.

Its story goes back to 1873, when Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis received a patent for rivet-reinforced workwear.

Levi’s 502

Fit: Tapered

The 502 offers more room through the thigh and a more tapered leg toward the ankle.

Levi’s 505

Fit: Straight
Key feature: Zip fly

The 505 is a classic straight silhouette with a zip fly and is one of Levi’s well-known vintage-friendly models.

Levi’s 511

Fit: Slim

The 511 offers a slimmer silhouette without being the same as a skinny fit.

Levi’s 512

Fit: Slim tapered

The 512 combines a slim upper fit with a tapered leg.

Levi’s 514

Fit: Straight

A classic straight option for those who prefer a clean, traditional silhouette.

Levi’s 517

Fit: Bootcut

The 517 flares slightly from the knee downward and works particularly well with boots.

Levi’s 550

Fit: Relaxed

The 550 offers a roomier silhouette and has become particularly popular in vintage and streetwear circles.

Levi’s 568

Fit: Loose

The 568 offers a much roomier silhouette and is worth looking for if you prefer today's loose and relaxed denim aesthetic.

Why vintage Levi’s are different

When shopping second hand, you are not limited to today's current fits.

Older Levi’s can feature different:

fabrics
cuts
labels
construction details
washes
fades
production characteristics

Levi’s itself highlights vintage 501s, Trucker Jackets, 505s and Orange Tab collections among notable vintage categories.

Learn more about how do Levi's jeans fit here.

Levi’s model FAQ

Which Levi’s model is the most classic?
The 501 is the iconic original.

What is the difference between 501 and 511?
The 501 is a classic straight fit, while the 511 is slim.

What is the difference between 501 and 502?
The 501 is straight, while the 502 tapers toward the ankle.

What is the difference between 501 and 505?
Both are classic straight silhouettes, but the 501 is known for its button fly while the 505 has a zip fly.

Which Levi’s model is best for bigger thighs?
It depends on your proportions, but roomier relaxed and tapered fits can be useful starting points.

Which Levi’s models are best for vintage shopping?
The 501 is an obvious classic, while 505, 550 and other older fits can be excellent second-hand finds.

Levi’s is more than a model number

A model number is only part of the story.

Two pairs of 501s can look completely different depending on their age, fabric, wash, wear and previous owner.

That is exactly what makes second-hand Levi’s so interesting.