In the ever-evolving world of streetwear, certain brands manage to capture the essence of youth culture with striking consistency. Among them, Empyre has carved a niche, particularly through its line of denim—Empyre jeans. Known for their laid-back aesthetic, affordable pricing, and wide range of fits, Empyre jeans have become a go-to for skaters, students, and fashion-forward individuals who value both style and substance.
Origins and Brand Background
Empyre is a private label brand that emerged under the retail umbrella of Zumiez, a popular action sports lifestyle store. Since its inception, Empyre has tailored its image to appeal to the youth-driven skate, snow, and surf communities. While it produces a variety of clothing and accessories, its jeans have consistently stood out as a staple product. Designed to complement the lifestyle of active individuals, Empyre jeans offer a blend of functionality and street style.
The brand’s approach to denim is deeply rooted in the skateboarding subculture, where durability, mobility, and comfort are just as important as the aesthetic appeal. Unlike high-fashion designer jeans, Empyre offers affordable options without compromising on quality—making them particularly popular among younger audiences and students.
Fit and Style Variety
One of the key strengths of Empyre jeans lies in their diverse range of fits and washes. Whether you’re looking for slim-fit, straight-leg, or baggy jeans, Empyre has something to suit your personal style. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular fits:
Slim Fit: These jeans hug the legs more closely, creating a clean, modern silhouette. Ideal for those who prefer a more tailored look, slim-fit Empyre jeans pair well with both skate shoes and boots.
Straight Fit: This classic cut offers room through the thighs and calves, making them comfortable for everyday wear and easy to skate in. It’s a timeless style that appeals to a broad demographic.
Relaxed and Baggy Fits: Making a strong comeback with the resurgence of ‘90s fashion, baggy Empyre jeans are a favorite among skateboarders for their unrestricted movement and vintage aesthetic.
In terms of finishes, Empyre jeans are available in a variety of washes—from light and distressed to deep indigo and jet black. Many styles also feature details like frayed hems, patchwork, or subtle fading that enhance their urban appeal.
Material and Construction
Empyre jeans are primarily made from durable cotton denim, sometimes blended with a small percentage of elastane or polyester for added stretch and flexibility. This makes them particularly useful for skaters or those who are constantly on the move.
Stitching is another strong point. Reinforced seams and strong pocket construction mean the jeans are built to withstand rough use. Many wearers praise the jeans for holding their shape and integrity even after extended wear.
Additionally, Empyre takes a practical approach by incorporating functional features such as deeper pockets, zip fly closures, and belt loops wide enough to accommodate heavy-duty skate belts.
Affordability and Accessibility
One of the most appealing aspects of Empyre jeans is their accessibility. With price points typically ranging between $30 to $60, they provide a budget-friendly alternative to premium denim brands without sacrificing too much in terms of quality or style.
Available primarily through Zumiez stores and its online platform, Empyre Pants are easy to find and often go on sale during seasonal promotions. This makes them a particularly attractive option for teenagers and college students who want to stay on trend without breaking the bank.
Popularity in Youth and Skate Culture
Empyre jeans have gained a steady following among members of the skateboarding community. This is no accident—Empyre designs its jeans with skaters in mind. The flexibility, durability, and comfort offered by their denim lines allow wearers to move freely, whether they’re performing tricks at the skatepark or walking through campus.
The rise of influencers and YouTubers in the skateboarding space has also played a role in Empyre’s popularity. Social media figures and amateur skaters often sport Empyre jeans in videos and posts, organically promoting the brand to large audiences. The authenticity of these endorsements contributes to the brand's reputation as a legitimate player in the skatewear space.
Style and Versatility
While rooted in skate culture, Empyre jeans transcend the niche with their versatile design. They are often styled with graphic tees, oversized hoodies, flannels, and skate shoes, creating a look that’s effortlessly cool and street-ready. However, they can also be dressed up slightly for casual nights out or school events.
For example, a pair of dark-wash slim-fit Empyre jeans combined with a plain white tee and leather jacket offers a clean, minimalist look. On the other hand, distressed baggy Empyre jeans with a vintage band tee and beanie scream rebellious 2000s skate-punk vibes.
Sustainability and Brand Evolution
As consumer preferences shift towards more sustainable fashion, Empyre has started to incorporate environmentally conscious practices into its production. Some jeans now use eco-friendly materials or low-impact dyes, though this is still a developing area for the brand.
Empyre also continually adapts to trends. From high-waisted styles for women to oversized denim for men, the brand has shown a knack for keeping up with evolving fashion sensibilities without abandoning its core identity.
Final Thoughts
Empyre jeans represent a balanced fusion of affordability, durability, and street-smart style. Ideal for skaters, students, and anyone drawn to laid-back fashion, these jeans deliver solid performance at a price point that doesn’t demand compromise. While they may not boast the prestige of high-end denim brands, Empyre’s authenticity and consistent quality have earned it a loyal customer base.