I grew up wearing Levis, both 501s and a zip-fly straight leg version that I think was the 505.  So that was the 80's, right.  Come back to Levis in 2011 and what you find is that the jeans either fit funny to match some modern style, or they're constructed with really poor quality - like, fall apart in the washing machine quality.  Sure, Levis makes a made-in-USA 501s now, for only like a million dollars per pair; if you're like me, though, the years haven't been kind enough to permit you to fit comfortably in those.  (Sort of like the mouse who wanted to throw a dance party, but he had no ballroom, if you know what I mean.)

Anyway.  I figured that at this price, with all these good reviews, something was outta whack here.  But I bought a pair anyway - in Dark Stonewash, because I like to lighten them naturally.

Totally stoked.  So glad I did.  They remind me of the comfortable, well-fitting jeans of my youth - they fit right for the middle-aged me, but they look good and feel great.  Definitely agree with the other reviewers that they run a size big.  In Dockers and Brooks Brothers my waist is a 36; the Carhartt 38s fit me perfectly.  My inseam is 32 but these are a really long 32; I suspect they'll shrink up after the first wash.

But they were a hit right out of the bag.  I was going to come back and buy another pair but these seem tough and well made.  I may not *need* another pair for a while.

I dunno what people want out of a pair of jeans these days, but if you saw anything that reminds you of yourself in this review, do yourself a favor and buy a pair.  You won't regret it.

EDIT:  It's April 2017.  I've been lifting weights for a couple years and I can fit in 501s now.  But these are still my go-to "Dad jeans" for dad jobs like mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, anything that requires a bit of mobility and flexibility.  And this pair, 6 years old, so lightened by washing and rubbing as to be nearly white on the thighs, is just now getting around to fraying at the cuff and wearing out.

Time to buy a new pair!