How to Break in Raw Denim Fast: The Right Way & the Wrong Way

* Thanks @benzakdenimdevelopers ! Check out their jeans: https://ktku.co/qH * Benzak's guide to washing your jeans: https://ktku.co/qI * How they pre-fade jeans at the factory: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAtcCZJ2K1o * 4 more explainers I filmed with Benzak: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNld8fx1Smnk8UH8YwpF4ZfFSq5h78qzG * Full article: https://stridewise.com/how-to-break-in-jeans/ Raw denim is generally understood to mean it hasn't been pre-faded at the jeans factory, but what you might not know is that it also means the jeans haven't been washed before being sent to the customer. And even if they don't look faded, most jeans _do_ get washed first because raw denim has a lot of starch in it to make it easier to work with during the garment making process. This is a big reason why it's stiff and crispy when you get it, and why you "break in" raw denim jeans a little like breaking in boots. Is there a way to speed up that process? Should you just wash them at home before wearing them? An expert in raw denim, Lennaert Nijgh, breaks down breaking in. 00:00 Raw denim vs regular denim: why does it break in? 01:26 Tip 1: How to soak your raw denim 02:16 Tip 2: Wear your jeans as they dry 03:05 Tip 3: Bike or work out in your jeans 03:52 Should you wash raw denim before wearing? 06:57 How to break in heavyweight denim 07:44 Wrapping up