When it comes to merging streetwear flair with skate-ready durability, few brands strike the balance as well as Empyre. Known primarily for its roots in skate culture and youth fashion, Empyre has carved out a solid place in the denim market through its trendy yet functional Empyre jeans. Whether you’re a skateboarder, a streetwear enthusiast, or someone who values comfortable and stylish denim, Empyre jeans have become a staple in casual wardrobes across the globe.
A Brief History of Empyre
Empyre is a private-label brand developed and sold by Zumiez, a U.S.-based retailer that focuses on action sports-related apparel, footwear, and accessories. Established in the early 2000s, Empyre quickly gained popularity within the skateboarding community for its affordable, durable, and trend-aware designs. Though the brand encompasses a wide range of apparel, including jackets, shirts, and hoodies, Empyre jeans have remained one of its most consistent and beloved products.
From their early days, Empyre jeans were designed to cater to the needs of young, style-conscious consumers who wanted denim that could hold up on a board but also look good off it. Over time, the brand has evolved to reflect changing fashion trends without losing its skate-core DNA.
Design and Fit: A Style for Everyone
Empyre jeans are notable for their diverse range of fits and styles, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you prefer skinny, slim, relaxed, or straight-leg jeans, Empyre offers a selection that caters to different body types and personal tastes.
Some of the most popular fits include:
Empyre Skinny Fit Jeans: Designed for a tight, form-fitting silhouette, these jeans are perfect for those who like a modern, tailored look. Despite the snug fit, they typically include stretch material for ease of movement.
Empyre Slim Fit Jeans: Slightly looser than the skinny fit, slim fit jeans offer a sleek profile without being too restrictive.
Empyre Tapered and Relaxed Fit Jeans: These are ideal for skaters or anyone who prefers a roomier fit around the thighs with a narrower ankle opening for style and practicality.
In terms of length and waist sizing, Empyre jeans are inclusive and cater to a wide range of sizes, making them accessible to a broad demographic.
Materials and Durability
One of the hallmarks of Empyre jeans is their durability—a non-negotiable trait for any product rooted in skate culture. Skateboarding can be tough on clothing, especially jeans, which often take the brunt of falls, scrapes, and constant movement. Empyre addresses this challenge by using blended materials such as cotton with a touch of elastane or spandex to add stretch, resilience, and comfort.
The denim fabric is generally mid- to heavyweight, providing enough toughness to withstand wear and tear while still being comfortable for daily use. The reinforced stitching and high-quality hardware (zippers, buttons, rivets) further contribute to their longevity, making them a cost-effective option for budget-conscious shoppers who don't want to sacrifice quality.
Style and Versatility
Empyre jeans don’t just perform well—they look great, too. The brand frequently updates its offerings to reflect current trends while maintaining a timeless streetwear aesthetic. Their denim comes in a variety of washes and finishes, including:
Classic Blue Denim
Acid Wash
Black and Charcoal
Distressed and Ripped Styles
Colored Denim (like olive, grey, and khaki tones)
This range of finishes allows wearers to express their personal style. Pair a light-wash skinny jean with a graphic tee for a laid-back vibe, or go with black tapered jeans and a hoodie for an urban, minimalist look.
Beyond jeans, Empyre Jeans also designs denim with special features like cargo pockets, techwear influences, and patched or stitched accents, appealing to those who want something edgier and fashion-forward.
The Youth Appeal: Affordability Meets Trend
Empyre jeans have become especially popular among teenagers and young adults, in large part due to their accessibility and price point. Compared to premium denim brands, Empyre offers an affordable alternative without significantly compromising on quality or aesthetics.
Many customers discover Empyre through Zumiez, which strategically positions the brand alongside skate and streetwear giants like Vans, Thrasher, and Nike SB. This brand adjacency builds credibility and positions Empyre as a fashionable, trusted choice among the youth audience.
Empyre also benefits from seasonal drops and limited edition runs, keeping the offerings fresh and giving consumers a reason to come back. Sales and bundle deals at Zumiez also make it easy to stock up on multiple styles without breaking the bank.
Empyre Jeans and Skateboarding Culture
At its core, Empyre remains closely tied to skateboarding culture. While not necessarily a performance brand like Dickies or Levi’s Skateboarding line, Empyre incorporates many of the elements skaters look for: comfort, range of motion, and durability.
Many skaters appreciate Empyre jeans for their relaxed fit and flexibility, which allow for unrestricted movement when performing tricks. Their subtle branding also appeals to those who prefer a low-key, unbranded look that doesn’t scream commercialism—a value held dear by many within skateboarding communities.
Customer Reception and Reviews
Empyre jeans are generally well-reviewed across retail platforms. Customers praise the fit, affordability, and style, often noting that the jeans “look more expensive than they are.” Repeat buyers are common, and the brand's consistent quality helps foster loyalty among first-time users.
While not a luxury brand, Empyre hits the sweet spot for people looking for fashion-forward, functional jeans that won’t empty their wallet.
Final Thoughts
Empyre jeans exemplify what happens when a brand pays attention to its audience and blends style, practicality, and affordability. Rooted in skate culture but versatile enough for anyone who loves casual denim, Empyre continues to offer jeans that are both fashionable and functional.
