The bigger question for me is if Levi’s from outlet stores is worse quality - I’ve heard that originally outlets sold surplus, but when they realized it was a good business bringing lots of customers they started making inferior products specifically for the outlet market. Maybe it’s not true, but I had 3 pairs fall apart and it’s made me stop buying Levi’s. I’m interested in ways brands can damage their reputation for short term gains, but never knew if this one is true or a rumor
I know this is only a sample size of 1, but I get my Levi's from the outlet store. I got two pairs of 531's about 6 years ago and basically lived in those two pairs. I wasn't sliding around on the ground, but I was doing woodworking so they took a beating and got pretty dirty. I just took a look at them and they only spot that even looked worn was at the top of the seat, right where 4 seams come together. Otherwise nothing. I only replaced them because I dropped 4 inches off my waist and they'll just fall off me now.
