If you're shopping for jeans that feel comfortable enough for everyday wear but still look polished, you've probably encountered the Silver Jeans Co. brand. Their Zac Relaxed Fit Straight Leg Jean in Legacy wash has become a popular choice for men who want something practical and versatile. But before you add a pair to your cart, it helps to understand what makes this style different, who it's actually for, and how to make sure you get the right fit.

What Makes a Relaxed Fit Straight Leg Jean Different

The relaxed fit straight leg is a specific cut designed to sit comfortably without clinging. Unlike skinny jeans that taper toward the ankle, or bootcut jeans that flare slightly, a straight leg maintains a consistent width from hip to ankle. The relaxed fit part means there's generous room through the hip and thigh, making these jeans feel less restrictive than slimmer cuts.

The Silver Jeans Co. Zac model features a 19-inch leg opening and a 10.75-inch rise. The rise is the measurement from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband—a 10.75-inch rise sits just below the waist rather than high on the hip, which appeals to people who prefer a more modern silhouette without extreme lowness. The leg opening of 19 inches tells you how wide the jean is at the ankle, which affects how the jean drapes and which shoes look proportional with them.

Understanding the Inseam and Finding Your Size

The most important measurement for jeans is your inseam, which is the inside seam length from your crotch to your ankle. Silver Jeans Co. offers the Zac model in inseams of 30, 32, 34, and 36 inches. If you don't know your inseam, you can measure it yourself by putting on a pair of jeans that fit you well and measuring from the inside seam at the crotch down to the hem. Alternatively, take a pair of jeans you like and measure the inseam flat on a table from the inner crotch seam to the bottom.

Getting the inseam right matters more than you'd think. Too short and the jean looks cropped, throwing off your proportions. Too long and you'll have excess fabric bunching at your ankles. The waist size works the same way as most jeans—measure around your natural waist where you normally wear pants—but the inseam is what keeps people coming back to the same brand once they've found their fit.

The Fabric and Stretch: Comfort Without Sacrifice

The Silver Jeans Co. Zac is made from 99% cotton with 1% elastane. That elastane is important because it's what gives the fabric its stretch and recovery. Elastane allows the jeans to move with your body rather than against it, which is why the product description compares the feel to sweatpants while maintaining a more formal appearance. The medium-light indigo wash in the Legacy colorway sits between deep indigo and lighter faded blues, making it versatile enough for casual settings and office environments that allow denim.

One thing to keep in mind: stretch denim requires slightly different care than rigid denim. While you can wash these jeans normally, turning them inside out before washing helps preserve color and reduce fading. Air drying extends the life of the elastane more than high heat from a dryer.

Who These Jeans Work Best For

Relaxed fit straight leg jeans suit people who prioritize comfort and practicality. They work well if you have an athletic build, wider thighs, or simply prefer not to feel the fabric pulling against your legs. The straight leg style suits most body types and leg shapes, making them one of the most universally flattering denim cuts available. They pair easily with sneakers, work boots, or casual shoes, and the medium-light indigo wash coordinates with most shirt colors.

These jeans are less ideal if you prefer a tapered or fitted silhouette, or if you have a very slim build where relaxed fit might overwhelm your frame. If you're drawn to trendy, fashion-forward styling, you might find the straight leg approach too classic rather than exciting.

Caring for Your Silver Jeans Co. Zac Jeans

To keep your relaxed fit straight leg jeans looking good, wash them less frequently than other clothes—once every few wears is reasonable for casual jeans. Use cold water, turn them inside out, and use a gentle cycle. This preserves the indigo color and protects the elastane fibers. Dry them flat or hang them rather than using high heat, as heat breaks down elastane over time. With proper care, a quality pair of jeans can last multiple years of regular wear.

The product in this guide: Silver Jeans Co. Men's Zac Relaxed Fit Straight Leg Jean - Legacy