Levi’s jeans are an iconic staple in many closets, with their timeless denim looks that seem to only get better with age. Two of Levi’s most popular men’s fits are the 502 and 513 jeans.
But with subtle differences between the two fits, how do you choose which one is best for you?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key differences between Levi’s 502 and 513 jeans. We’ll compare the fits, fabrics, sizes, and more. We’ll also overview the main pros and cons of each jean fit.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to decide between the Levi’s 502 vs 513 jeans for your body type and style needs. Let’s get started!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Levi’s 502 | Levi’s 513 |
| Fit | Loose, roomy fit through seat and thigh | Slim fit through thigh and leg |
| Leg Opening | Wider 17″ leg opening | Tapered 14.5″ leg opening |
| Rise | Mid rise at natural waist | Low rise below waist |
| Comfort Level | Roomy cut allows mobility | Slimmer cut is less comfortable |
| Size Range | 28-48 waist sizes | 28-40 waist sizes |
| Fabric Selection | Premium rigid denims | Stretch denims common |
| Wash Options | Vintage light washes | Modern dark indigos |
| Style | Classic straight leg | Contemporary straight leg |
| Best For | Relaxed fits, looser body types | Tailored fits, athletic builds |
Also Read: Differences Between Levi’s 502 And 505 Jeans.
Main Differences Between Levi’s 502 And 513 Jeans
While the 502 and 513 are both classic straight leg fits, there are some notable differences between the two Levi’s jeans:
- Fit – The 502 has a roomier fit through the seat and thigh, while the 513 is more tailored with a slimmer leg opening.
- Rise – The 502 has a mid rise while the 513 sits below the waist for a low rise fit.
- Leg Opening – The 502 has a 17” leg opening and the 513 tapers down to 14.5”.
- Comfort Level – The looser 502 is known as one of Levi’s most comfortable fits. The 513 is more stylized with its slimmer silhouette.
- Size Range – The 502 comes in waist sizes 28-48 while the 513 is sized from 28-40.
As you can see, the main differences come down to the 502 having a classic loose straight fit and the 513 having a more modern, slim straight fit. The choice depends on your style, body type, and preferred comfort level.
Next, let’s take a deeper look at how the 502 and 513 compare across some key categories.
Detailed Comparison Of Levi’s 502 vs 513 Fits
Fit & Cut
The 502 and 513 represent two different takes on the classic straight leg jean:
Levi’s 502 Fit: Designed to be worn loose, the 502 has a roomy cut through the seat and thigh. It has a mid rise and sits at the natural waist. The leg opening flares out slightly to a width of 17 inches, giving it that signature straight leg silhouette. The generous cut provides maximum comfort and mobility. This is a relaxed everyday jean.
Levi’s 513 Fit: With its slimmer leg that tapers to 14.5 inches, the 513 has a more stylized straight fit. It hugs the thighs and narrows through the leg for a streamlined silhouette. The 513 sits below the waist for a low rise fit. It has less room through the seat and thigh than the 502 for a tailored look. This modern straight jean has definite style over comfort.
So in summary, if you want a baggy, relaxed fit go with the 502. For a narrower, slim straight fit, choose the 513.
Fabric Options
You can find both the 502 and 513 Levi’s jeans in a variety of denim fabrics:
- Rigid Denim – The raw, untreated rigid denim is thick and stiff. It will conform to your body over time for customized fading.
- Stretch Denim – The jeans with stretch (usually 2-5% elastane) provide comfort and flexibility while retaining shape.
- Non-Stretch Denim – The 100% cotton options have no stretch but break in softly over time.
- Garment-Dyed – These jeans go through a dyeing process that gives the denim a uniform dark indigo color with no fading.
The range of finishes and fabrics means both the 502 and 513 come in options for any aesthetic. The 502 often comes in more premium rigid fabrics to accentuate its classic denim style. Meanwhile, the 513 leans into stretch fabrics to complement its slimmer silhouette.
Also Read: Differences Between Levi’s 541 And 505 Jeans.
Sizing & Fits
One noticeable difference between the 502 and 513 is their size range:
Levi’s 502 Sizes: 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48
Levi’s 513 Sizes: 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 36, 38, 40
As you can see, the 502 comes in a broader range of sizes to cater to its roomier straight leg fit. It runs up to a 48 inch waist.
The 513 stops at size 40 since its slimmer cut has less room through the hips and stomach.
It’s designed for men with smaller waists and slim to athletic builds.
In terms of fit, the 502 runs slightly large while the 513 runs close to size.
If between sizes, consider sizing down in the 502 and sticking to your normal size in the 513.
Rise Options
In addition to the fit differences, the 502 and 513 have varying rise options:
502 Rise – This jean only comes in a mid rise that hits near the natural waist. The medium rise complements the looser 502 fit.
513 Rise – The 513 is sold exclusively as a low rise jean, sitting below the natural waist area. The low rise accentuates its slim silhouette.
So those wanting a medium rise fit should go for the 502. If you prefer wearing jeans lower on your hips, the 513 low rise is likely the better choice.
Color & Wash Selection
With both the 502 and 513, you get an extensive selection of high quality finishes:
- Dark Indigo Wash – The signature Levi’s dark denim provides a rugged, intensely colored wash.
- Black Denim – For an edgier alternative to classic blue denim.
- Medium Wash – Lighter shades of blue for a worn-in vintage look.
- Light Wash – The palest blue washes for a faded effect. More common in the 502 fit.
- White Oak Cone Denim – Specialty fabrics in multi-hued blues and greys.
- Distressed/Ripped – Pre-damaged styles with intentional fading, whiskering, and rips.
While color selection varies season to season, you’ll always find the core options in dark rinse indigo and black. The 502 tends to come in more light washes and heavily damaged styles thanks to its Classic Americana vibe. Meanwhile, the 513 focuses on rich indigos and blacks to complement its modern silhouette.
Pros & Cons Of Levi’s 502 Jeans
Now that we’ve covered the key differences, let’s summarize the main pros and cons of the Levi’s 502 jeans:
Pros
- Roomy fit through seat and thigh
- Relaxed straight leg cut
- Sits at natural waist (mid rise)
- Wide leg opening (17 inches)
- Loose style allows mobility
- Available in a wide range of sizes
- Comes in premium rigid denim
- Vintage Americana look
Cons
- Baggy fit not ideal for slim builds
- Only comes in a mid rise
- Looser cut less stylized
- Light washes can seem dated
- Runs large, may need to size down
The 502 is the clear choice if you want an easygoing, comfortable fit jean in traditional straight leg silhouettes. The roomy cut and mid rise makes it extra versatile. But the vintage styling won’t work for those wanting a modern, tailored look.
Also Read: Differences Between Levi’s 511 And 514 Jeans.
Pros & Cons of Levi’s 513 Jeans
Moving onto the 513, here are the notable pros and cons:
Pros
- Slim cut through thigh and leg
- Tapered leg opening (14.5 inches)
- Sits below waist (low rise)
- Stretch fabrics provide flexibility
- Sleek, modern straight fit -Lean silhouette ideal for athletic builds
- Stylish washed out finishes
Cons
- Less room through hips and seat
- Can be too tight for some builds
- Only comes in low rise height
- Limited size range
- Less availability of rigid fabrics
- Slimmer cut isn’t as comfortable
The 513 is the perfect straight leg jean for guys that want a stylized slim fit in modern colors. But the snugness through the hips and thighs may not work for men with larger lower bodies. The cut also restricts movement more compared to the 502.
Fitting & Style Tips For 502 And 513 Jeans
Here are some general tips for choosing a flattering Levi’s fit:
Levi’s 502 Tips
- Size down if between sizes for the best fit. These run large.
- Athletic and slimmer body types can rock the baggy look by sizing up.
- Balance the roomy cut with a fitted shirt or jacket.
- Cuffing the wide leg opening shows off cool sneakers.
Levi’s 513 Tips
- Stick to your normal jean size for the ideal slim fit.
- Size up or down if you are between sizes.
- The slimmer cut pairs well with sleek shoes and fitted tops.
- Avoid sizing down too much if you have larger thighs.
No matter your size, you can wear both styles stylishly. Let comfort and personal style guide you towards the perfect Levi’s 501 or 513 jeans.
Also Read: Comparison of Dickies, Carhartt And Duluth Pants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still debating between the 502 and 513? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Like the 502, the Levi’s 512 is a straight leg cut. But the 512 is even roomier with an ultra-high rise and oversized 20” leg opening. The 502 has a mid rise and less dramatic flare through the leg.
The Levi’s 511 is a slim fit jean with a tapered leg. It hugs the body and has spandex for stretch. Meanwhile, the 502 has no stretch and a straight, loose leg. The 511 is much more fitted while the 502 is relaxed through the seat and thighs.
The 514 is Levi’s original straight leg fit. It shares similarities with the 502 but has a slightly more relaxed cut and flared leg opening. The 502 modernized the straight fit with a mid vs high rise and trimmed down leg width.
The 513 is Levi’s slim straight jean. The digits signify it has a slim thigh and tapers to a narrower straight leg opening. This creates a tailored straight fit.
Final Thoughts
We hope this detailed overview has helped you learn the main differences between Levi’s 502 vs 513 jeans.
The 502 is the quintessential baggy straight leg jean. With its loose cut and mid rise, it provides comfort along with timeless style.
Meanwhile, the 513 offers a slimmer take on the straight silhouette. The tapered leg and low rise create a flattering, streamlined fit.
Consider aspects like your usual jean size, preferred rise, body type, and wardrobe style as you choose between these two excellent options. Once you select your new favorite fit, you’re sure to find endless versatile ways to wear Levi’s 502 or 513 jeans.
