Empyre jeans
In the ever-evolving world of streetwear and urban fashion, few brands have managed to capture the youthful spirit and cultural essence of skateboarding quite like Empyre. Known for its laid-back aesthetic, accessible price point, and functional design, Empyre has carved a niche within the casual apparel market — and one of its standout products is the Empyre jeans collection. More than just a pair of pants, Empyre jeans represent a lifestyle centered on individuality, self-expression, and subcultural authenticity.
A Brief History of Empyre
Empyre is a house brand launched and owned by Zumiez, a leading U.S.-based retail chain specializing in skate, snow, surf, and street-inspired clothing, footwear, and accessories. Established in the early 2000s, Empyre quickly became synonymous with the youth-driven fashion that defined the skateboarding and BMX subcultures. The brand emerged not as a high-fashion competitor, but as a reliable go-to for teens and young adults seeking cool, functional, and affordable clothes that resonated with their active lifestyles.
From jackets and flannels to chinos and jeans, Empyre’s catalog reflects the rebellious and energetic ethos of its target audience. Among its most popular items, Empyre jeans stand out as a staple for many who align with the brand’s easygoing, non-conformist attitude.
The Appeal of Empyre Jeans
What sets Empyre jeans apart is their blend of practicality, durability, and trend-aware design. They are designed to look great whether you’re skating down a street, hanging out with friends, or heading to class. Let’s dive into the elements that make these jeans appealing:
1. Affordable Pricing
One of the most attractive aspects of Empyre jeans is their affordability. While premium denim brands can range from $100 to $300 or more, Empyre jeans usually retail between $40 and $60, making them an accessible option for students and young adults. This price point allows customers to stay on trend without breaking the bank, and even encourages experimentation with different styles and fits.
2. Variety of Fits and Styles
Empyre offers an impressive range of fits to cater to varying fashion tastes and body types. Some of the most popular styles include:
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Slim Fit Jeans – Tapered through the leg but not too tight, these are ideal for those who want a modern look without sacrificing comfort.
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Skinny Jeans – Popular among fashion-forward youth, these jeans hug the legs closely and are often made with stretch denim for flexibility.
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Straight Leg Jeans – A classic, relaxed fit that suits those looking for a more traditional or skater-friendly silhouette.
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Relaxed and Baggy Fit Jeans – These cater to the revival of ’90s and early 2000s aesthetics, with wider leg openings and a looser fit, making them great for mobility and street style flair.
Each fit comes in various washes — from light indigo and stonewashed blue to jet black and vintage fade — as well as finishes like distressing, rips, and whiskering for added visual appeal.
3. Skateboarding Functionality
Because of Empyre Pants deep roots in skate culture, many of their jeans are designed with skaters in mind. This means reinforced stitching in high-stress areas, flexible fabrics that allow for movement, and a fit that stays in place during action. Some pairs include stretch denim blends, offering the right amount of give without losing structure, which is essential for tricks, flips, and long sessions at the park.
4. Trendy Yet Timeless Aesthetic
Empyre balances the line between trendy and timeless. Their jeans are not overly flashy or logo-heavy. Instead, they offer subtle branding and a clean design that can be dressed up or down. Whether paired with a graphic tee and sneakers or layered with a flannel and hoodie, Empyre jeans serve as a versatile foundation for countless outfit combinations.
Sustainability and Materials
In recent years, consumer awareness around sustainability has grown significantly, especially among Gen Z — Empyre’s core demographic. While Empyre does not currently position itself as an eco-conscious brand in the same way as companies like Patagonia or Levi’s, some of their denim offerings include recycled cotton blends and eco-wash finishes. As demand for sustainable fashion continues to rise, it’s likely the brand may expand these efforts in the future.
Regardless, Empyre maintains a level of quality control that ensures its jeans last beyond just a few washes or wears, reducing the likelihood of fast-fashion waste. The materials used often include a blend of cotton, polyester, and elastane, giving the denim both structure and stretch — ideal for everyday wear and tear.
The Target Audience
Empyre primarily targets teens and young adults aged 13 to 25 — individuals who are either actively part of skateboarding culture or identify with its aesthetics and values. These customers value:
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Affordability
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Style relevance
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Authenticity
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Mobility and comfort
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Retail accessibility (Empyre jeans are easy to find at Zumiez stores and online)
By focusing on this demographic, Empyre taps into a market that is trend-sensitive but cost-conscious, offering a stylish alternative to fast fashion brands like H&M or Forever 21, and a more youth-centric identity than legacy denim brands like Levi’s or Wrangler.
Cultural Impact and Community Ties
Although Empyre Clothing may not be as globally recognized as luxury fashion houses, it holds a strong cultural presence within the skateboarding and alternative fashion communities. The brand has frequently sponsored events, collaborated with local artists, and highlighted amateur skaters, artists, and musicians — reinforcing its community-driven values.
Moreover, Empyre’s partnership with Zumiez ensures that the brand is closely tied to youth culture, particularly in malls and retail centers where many young consumers are introduced to streetwear and skate brands for the first time.
Online Presence and Customer Feedback
Empyre has adapted well to the digital age, with strong visibility through Zumiez.com and related social media platforms. The brand’s aesthetic aligns well with visual platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where influencers and micro-creators showcase outfit inspiration, skate videos, and product reviews.
Online reviews for Empyre jeans are generally positive, with customers praising:
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The fit and comfort
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The style accuracy
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The durability relative to price
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The range of available sizes and washes
Some criticisms include inconsistent sizing across different fits and the occasional issue with zipper quality, but these are relatively minor in the broader customer satisfaction landscape.
Empyre Jeans vs. Competitors
When compared to competitors in the same price and style category — such as Volcom, Dickies, Levi’s Signature, or RVCA — Empyre holds its own in both fashion appeal and skatewear functionality. Where Dickies may lean more utilitarian and Volcom slightly pricier, Empyre hits a sweet spot of affordability, trend-awareness, and comfort, making it a favorite among high school and college students.
Styling Tips for Empyre Jeans
Because of their versatility, Empyre jeans can be styled in numerous ways:
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For Skaters: Pair relaxed fit Empyre jeans with a graphic tee, Vans or Nike SB sneakers, and a five-panel cap.
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For a Streetwear Look: Style slim black Empyre jeans with an oversized hoodie, puffer vest, and chunky sneakers.
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For Casual Daywear: Match straight-leg Empyre jeans with a basic white tee and plaid flannel shirt layered on top.
Their adaptability makes them suitable for nearly any occasion short of formal events — a testament to the everyday appeal of denim itself.
Final Thoughts
Empyre jeans exemplify what modern youth fashion often strives to be: affordable, stylish, functional, and culturally grounded. By focusing on the needs and desires of young skaters, artists, and creatives, Empyre has built a brand identity that resonates far beyond the racks of Zumiez stores. Their denim, in particular, remains a reliable wardrobe essential for those who value both comfort and character in what they wear.
