[The Studio] The Barrel Classic Straight Old Nep - Indigo Raw 13.5oz Selvedge

We dug deep in the Kato archives, looking for details that would elevate this pair of classic 5-pocket jeans. 

Polyester is almost always used to produce the nep in neppy denim. Our vision called for a 100% cotton Nep denim—no synthetics. After an extensive search, only one mill in Japan could produce the fabric to our standards. The result is a rich, textured, all-natural denim that highlights the craftsmanship of Japanese weaving.

We are fascinated with mid-1940s wartime jeans, a period when fabric and metal were rationed during WWII. Back then, many brands used surplus military materials for pocket bags—we’ve done the same, using durable Army green ripstop for both function and vintage character. Because metal was prioritized for the war, rivets were replaced with bartacks, which had been refined to provide the same strength without compromise. 

The 1/8th inch Kato Orange double needle stitching in is an iconic Hiroshi Kato signature. Each pair features the Kato Studio “Helmut” patch, crafted from full-grain vegetable-tanned leather. 

The Barrel Straight cut is our widest straight leg cut fashioned after the vintage cuts of the 40s and 50s. It is a comfortable and timeless style that only gets better with age. 

100% Cotton