Empyre is a name that resonates with skateboarders, streetwear enthusiasts, and fashion-forward youth who appreciate a laid-back yet edgy aesthetic. Best known for its apparel rooted in skate culture, Empyre Clothing has made a mark in the denim world with its line of jeans that combine style, comfort, and affordability. Over the years, Empyre jeans have become a staple in urban fashion scenes, reflecting both rugged streetwear sensibilities and functional design.
Origins and Brand Identity
Empyre is a house brand created by Zumiez, the popular retail chain that specializes in skateboarding gear, apparel, and accessories. Founded in 1978, Zumiez has always positioned itself at the intersection of extreme sports and youth fashion. Empyre emerged from this ethos, designed to cater specifically to the tastes of skaters and streetwear aficionados.
From the beginning, Empyre's jeans were built to withstand the demands of skateboarding — offering durability, flexibility, and a comfortable fit. But even beyond the skate park, Empyre jeans began to appeal to a wider audience because of their trendy designs, urban style cues, and reasonable pricing.
Design Philosophy and Aesthetic
Empyre jeans stand out because they embrace modern fits and silhouettes while maintaining a casual, effortless vibe. The brand’s design philosophy centers around accessibility and authenticity — they don't chase luxury labels or haute couture trends. Instead, Empyre focuses on delivering reliable denim that looks good, feels good, and suits everyday life.
Some of the most popular Empyre jean styles include:
Skinny Fit – Designed for a snug fit through the thigh and leg, these jeans often feature a stretch denim fabric for flexibility.
Slim Fit – A slightly more relaxed version of skinny jeans, offering a tapered look without being too tight.
Straight Fit – A classic cut that offers comfort and timeless appeal.
Relaxed and Loose Fit – These styles channel ‘90s and early 2000s skate vibes, providing maximum movement and an intentionally baggy silhouette.
Color and wash variations range from dark indigo and black to stone-washed and distressed finishes. Empyre jeans often incorporates subtle details like stitched logos, raw hems, or ripped accents that give their jeans a lived-in, urban appeal.
Functional Denim for Skaters
One of the biggest reasons for Empyre's popularity among skaters is the functionality of their denim. Skateboarding is notoriously rough on clothing — falls, friction, and repetitive movement require apparel that can take a beating without falling apart. Empyre jeans often feature reinforced stitching, stretch fabric blends (like spandex or elastane), and heavier denim weights to support active wear.
At the same time, skaters demand comfort and freedom of movement. Empyre’s relaxed and stretch-fit options allow skaters to perform tricks, jumps, and slides without feeling restricted. This balance of toughness and comfort is one of the hallmarks of the brand's success in the skate community.
Affordability and Accessibility
Empyre jeans are known for offering solid value at an affordable price point. Typically priced between $30 and $60, they sit in a sweet spot for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on style or quality. This price range makes them particularly appealing to teens and young adults — Zumiez’s core demographic — who want to stay fashionable without breaking the bank.
Unlike premium denim brands that can run hundreds of dollars per pair, Empyre jeans make it easy for consumers to own multiple styles and stay on-trend. For many young people, Empyre offers a first entry point into self-expression through fashion.
Cultural Impact and Fashion Trends
Empyre’s roots in skate culture have helped it become a symbol of youth independence and counterculture fashion. The rise of streetwear as a global fashion movement has only boosted the relevance of brands like Empyre, which naturally align with the aesthetic — think oversized hoodies, graphic tees, sneakers, and of course, statement jeans.
In recent years, Y2K and 90s-inspired styles have come back into vogue. This has elevated demand for looser jeans and vintage washes — both areas where Empyre excels. Influencers and skaters alike have showcased Empyre jeans on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, helping the brand stay relevant in an ever-evolving fashion landscape.
Moreover, because Empyre Pants operates within Zumiez, it enjoys prime visibility in mall-based retail and online storefronts. This accessibility ensures that Empyre remains front-of-mind for young shoppers browsing for affordable, on-trend denim.
Sustainability and Ethical Concerns
Like many fast-fashion adjacent brands, Empyre has faced scrutiny regarding sustainability. While the brand does not market itself as eco-conscious, Zumiez as a whole has taken steps toward improving supply chain transparency and reducing environmental impact. However, Empyre’s jeans are primarily produced with affordability in mind, so eco-friendly materials and production practices are not currently a major selling point.
That said, the durability of Empyre jeans can be seen as a sustainability plus — longer-lasting clothing reduces waste and consumption over time.
The Verdict: Why Empyre Jeans Work
Empyre jeans have carved out a meaningful niche in the world of denim. They blend style, durability, comfort, and affordability in a way that appeals to today’s fashion-conscious youth. With designs that stay in step with streetwear trends and performance features that skaters appreciate, it’s no wonder Empyre remains a go-to brand for those looking to express themselves authentically through fashion.