2025 gave us a denim wave no one saw coming: Y2K throwbacks, boot cuts, and baggy fits all fighting for closet space. But as we slide into 2026, the denim game is getting smarter, louder, and bolder. This year’s type of jeans for men is all about function meets flex. Think hybrid fits, vintage washes, and silhouettes that make even the plainest outfit look like a statement.
So, if you’ve been wondering which type of jeans is in style for men right now, this is your cheat sheet. Here are the top 7 denim trends shaping men’s style for 2026, from street to semi-formal. These fits are running the game.
1. Vintage Wash & Acid-Washed Denim
Retro-core isn’t just surviving, it’s thriving. The vintage wash and acid-wash denim are making their comeback tour this year, bringing that nostalgic '90s flair with a modern twist. These aren’t your dad’s jeans; they’re distressed perfection that screams, “I’ve got style, but I didn’t try too hard.”
Why it’s trending: Vintage wash jeans give that effortlessly cool vibe a little grunge, a little artsy, and 100% classic. Perfect for guys who like their outfits with a story.
Styling Tip: Pair your vintage-wash jeans with a crisp oversized white shirt, layer a silver chain, and finish with Doc Martens or chunky sneakers. Instant “main character walking down the street” energy.
2. Hybrid Denims (Zip to Shorts? Yeah, That’s 2026)
This is where tech meets street. Hybrid denims are basically jeans with secret zippers at the knees that turn into shorts. Yup, one pair, two moods. You can walk into work wearing jeans and unzip your way into a pool party later. Peak innovation.
Why it’s trending: Functionality. These jeans are perfect for unpredictable plans, and let’s be real, they’re the most fun type of pants for men this year.
Styling Tip: Go for an oversized graphic t-shirt, throw in some high-top kicks, and you’re set. Heading out later? Swap your shoes for slides, unzip, and boom, instant off-duty fit.
3. Denim Cargos Streetwear’s Icon
The cargo trend isn’t slowing down; it’s evolving. Denim cargos combine the comfort of utility pants with the swagger of jeans. You get all those pockets (for literally nothing but still… aesthetic) and that structured denim feel that makes you look put-together even when you’re not trying.
Why it’s trending: Utility-core is everywhere from music videos to everyday street fits. Denim cargos hit the sweet spot between rugged and chill, easily one of the best jeans for men this season.
Styling Tip: Rock your denim cargos with a solid oversized t-shirt, a flannel overshirt, and white sneakers. Add a chain or beanie for that “I woke up like this but fly” vibe.
4. Baggy / Oversized Denims
If skinny jeans were about showing off, baggy jeans are about owning your space. This type of jeans for men rules the 2026 streetwear scene. From rappers to skateboarders, everyone’s ditching tight fits for freedom and flow.
Why it’s trending: Comfort meets confidence. Baggy denims are the uniform of streetwear, a mix of rebellion, style, and not caring too much (which ironically, is the whole point).
Styling Tip: Go blue-on-blue, light-wash baggy jeans, a vintage oversized tee, and high-top sneakers. Throw in a snapback, and you’re basically ready for your next underground gig
5. Barrel-Leg Denims
The dark horse of the denim world. Barrel-leg denims have a curved silhouette, wider at the thigh, slightly tapered near the ankle. It’s giving “relaxed, but elevated.” Perfect for guys who want to try something new without going full experimental.
Why it’s trending: It’s the new style of jeans for men that bridges streetwear and smart-casual. You can wear it to brunch or a date and still look like you know what’s up.
Styling Tip: Team it with a slim-fit t-shirt and loafers or layer with an overshirt. Keep accessories minimal, let the shape do the talking.
6. Tapered Jeans
Classic, clean, and always flattering. Tapered jeans are that one reliable friend who never lets you down. Slightly relaxed at the top and snug near the ankle, they’re ideal for guys who like a fitted look without going skinny.
Why it’s trending: It’s the perfect middle ground between comfort and structure. Works for every body type and every scene, office, coffee runs, even lowkey date nights.
Styling Tip: Pair with a polo or shirt and crisp sneakers for that balanced “effortlessly dressed” look. Add a wristwatch, and you’re golden.
7. Wide-Leg Denims
2026 is the year of volume. Wide-leg jeans are dominating every runway and street, comfy, breezy, and statement-making. They’re the type of blue jeans that bring high-fashion energy into everyday wear.
Why it’s trending: The silhouette makes any outfit feel intentional and bold. It’s giving runway model meets college kid energy, a mix we’re totally here for.
Styling Tip: Tuck in a boxy t-shirt or cropped hoodie, wear platform sneakers, and you’ve got that high-low streetwear balance everyone’s chasing
Style Tip from Underrated Club:
Whatever your fit, wear it like you mean it. Jeans don’t make the man; confidence does.
Wrapping It Up
The denim scene in 2026 is all about experimenting with silhouettes, textures, and nostalgia. From baggy fits to hybrid denims, these aren’t just trends; they’re statements of individuality. Whether you’re into vintage wash jeans, denim cargos, or wide-leg styles, pick the fit that feels most you.
Because in the end, the best type of jeans for men isn’t what’s trending, it’s what you wear with confidence.
About Underrated Club
Underrated Club isn’t your average fashion label; it’s a movement built by creators, stylists, and culture junkies who actually live the streetwear life. We’ve spent years decoding what makes a fit feel authentic: the right cut, the right wash, the right energy. Every type of jeans for men we talk about comes from real wear, not random trend charts.
We design, test, and drop pieces that speak the same language as the streets, raw, expressive, and made to last. Sparked by street nights, creative chaos, and a shared belief that good style starts with good energy, Underrated Club is where individuality meets comfort, and trends turn into culture.
FAQs
1. How many types of jeans are in men?
There are over 10 main types of jeans for men, including straight, tapered, wide-leg, baggy, barrel-leg, skinny, relaxed, and hybrid styles. Each brings its own vibe and fit.
2. What types of jeans are in style for men?
For 2026, denim cargos, hybrid denims, vintage wash jeans, and wide-leg fits are leading the trend charts. Comfort and individuality are the new cool.
3. What are relaxed fit jeans?
Relaxed fit jeans sit loose around the thighs and legs, giving extra comfort without compromising shape, basically, your chill-day go-to pair.
4. Which jeans brand is best in India?
Homegrown labels like Underrated Club are redefining streetwear denim. You also can’t go wrong with Levi’s, H&M, or Jack & Jones for everyday fits.
5. Which type of jeans is better?
Depends on your vibe. For streetwear, baggy and wide-leg jeans hit hard. For clean, everyday looks, tapered or straight fits are your best bet.
