In the world of streetwear and skate culture, denim has always played a pivotal role. Among the various brands that have emerged to claim a spot in this urban fashion narrative, Empyre stands out—especially with its highly sought-after Empyre jeans. Known for blending skate-ready functionality with street-smart aesthetics, Empyre jeans have grown into a staple for skaters, artists, and youth who live on the edge of mainstream fashion.
From the parks and plazas of California to the bustling sidewalks of New York City, Empyre jeans are more than just another piece of clothing—they’re a symbol of subculture, rebellion, creativity, and comfort. Built with the sensibility of the 90s and early 2000s yet forward-looking in cuts and detailing, these jeans bring back the golden age of skate fashion with a fresh, modern twist.
The Origins of Empyre: Streetwear Meets Skater Heritage:
Empyre Clothing was born out of the skateboarding lifestyle. Originally housed under the Zumiez umbrella, Empyre quickly grew into a go-to for affordable, stylish, and highly functional pieces designed for skateboarding and streetwear enthusiasts. The brand carved its name into the skate fashion hall of fame by consistently releasing collections that speak directly to the needs of its audience: quality, freedom of movement, clean design, and affordability.
At the core of its success lies the Empyre jeans collection. These jeans are not only fashion-forward but engineered with skateboarding functionality, often featuring relaxed cuts, reinforced stitching, and extra room where skaters need it most.
Key Features of Empyre Jeans
1. Fit Options for Every Style
Empyre jeans come in a wide range of fits—from relaxed and baggy to straight-leg and slim. This diversity makes them accessible to all kinds of wearers:
Relaxed Fit:
A nod to the ‘90s aesthetic, offering a roomy feel with plenty of leg room.
Straight Leg:
Ideal for skaters who need functional jeans that aren’t too loose or too tight.
Slim Fit:
Designed for those who want a sleeker silhouette without sacrificing mobility.
Each fit is tailored to accommodate comfort and mobility, particularly important for people who are active throughout the day, whether on a skateboard or navigating city streets.
2. Durability & Functionality:
Empyre jeans are engineered for durability. Reinforced seams, double-stitched stress points, and sturdy denim blends make them ideal for the demands of skating or just daily wear-and-tear. The denim is thick but breathable, offering that rare combination of ruggedness and comfort.
Many models come with added utility features like deep front pockets, coin pockets, and slightly longer hems designed to fall just right over a pair of skate shoes.
3. Aesthetic Versatility:
Empyre jeans master the balance between utility and aesthetics. They can be styled effortlessly with a hoodie and skate shoes or dressed up with a graphic tee and bomber jacket. Their color palette usually leans into the classics—washed indigo, jet black, faded grey, and stonewash blue—making them versatile enough for any outfit.
Popular Empyre Jean Styles:
1. Empyre Skeletor Jeans:
One of the standout designs in Empyre’s lineup, these jeans often feature gothic or punk-inspired detailing such as skeleton prints, embroidery, or patchwork. Skeletor jeans have become iconic in skate and streetwear circles for their fearless designs and bold street-style aesthetics.
2. Empyre Loose Fit Baggy Jeans:
Resonating with the revival of Y2K fashion, the baggy jeans from Empyre provide both comfort and a statement look. Often worn with oversized hoodies, beanies, or flannels, they appeal to skaters and creatives who value both functionality and self-expression.
3. Empyre Carpenter Jeans:
This functional silhouette includes utility pockets and hammer loops, combining the rugged feel of workwear with the swagger of skate fashion. Perfect for people who want their fashion to reflect a hands-on, DIY lifestyle.
Why Skaters Love Empyre Jeans:
Skateboarding is a high-impact sport that demands a lot from your clothes. Skaters often experience falls, abrasion, and rough contact with various surfaces. That’s why durability is non-negotiable. Empyre jeans are made with thick denim that doesn’t rip easily and are stitched to handle wear and tear over time. Plus, the relaxed and flexible cuts allow for a full range of motion, making tricks and movements more fluid.
The brand’s consistent collaboration with skaters and influencers in the skate world keeps its products authentic and functional. Empyre jeans aren’t trying to be something they’re not—they embrace the core of streetwear by sticking to quality, simplicity, and cultural relevance.
Empyre Jeans and Streetwear Culture:
Beyond skateboarding, Empyre jeans have found a strong foothold in the broader streetwear culture. The rise of TikTok fashion, vintage reselling, and throwback trends has brought Empyre back into the spotlight. Gen Z and millennials alike are turning to Empyre jeans for their retro vibes, relaxed fits, and affordable price points.
The baggy jeans trend, in particular, has put Empyre right where it needs to be. Whether styled with vintage Nike Dunks, thrifted tees, or custom outerwear, Empyre jeans become a centerpiece in the modern streetwear outfit.
Affordability Without Compromise:
One of the most significant draws of Empyre jeans is their accessibility. While many streetwear denim brands come with high-end price tags, Empyre offers stylish, durable, and comfortable jeans at a fraction of the cost. This affordability doesn’t compromise the quality, making them perfect for students, young professionals, and creatives looking to build a versatile wardrobe.
The pricing also allows wearers to experiment more freely—trying different styles, cuts, and washes without breaking the bank.
Sustainability and Material Innovation:
As sustainability becomes more important in fashion, Empyre has started to explore more eco-conscious materials and production processes. While the brand isn’t exclusively sustainable yet, it has begun integrating organic cotton and recycled fabrics into select pieces. Customers looking to shop ethically on a budget can find value in Empyre’s growing efforts to reduce its environmental impact.
