Landless Gentry: Pike Brother's 1937 Roamer Pants

Sunday, November 24, 2024

Pike Brother's 1937 Roamer Pants

Pike Brother's 1937 Roamer Pants - made by Pike Brothers Clothiers, which I have discovered are headquartered just up the road from us in Bad Feilnbach, Bavaria. We often holiday in Bad Tolz, so I will make it a point to visit them in their company store next time that I'm in the area. I've been shopping for a pair of high rise selvage denim jeans for a while now, with a fuller leg profile, especially through the hips and thighs. The jeans in my current wardrobe then to be quite fitted, with lower rise and tapering to a smaller opening at the ankle. This is fine as are as it goes but I'm finding it more and more restrictive for movements and find myself constantly pulling them up. Anyway that's the excuse that I'm giving to justify the purchase of another pair of selvage denims :-)

Pike Brothers' 1937 Roamer Pants are a celebrated tribute to vintage workwear, inspired by the rugged, functional apparel of the 1930s. These pants, crafted from 11oz selvage denim, combine historical accuracy with modern craftsmanship, making them a standout piece in the world of heritage clothing. The attention to detail, the robust material, and the thoughtful design elements are key reasons why these pants are held in such high regard by denim enthusiasts and those who appreciate traditional workwear.

The Unboxing:

Made from 11oz Selvage Denim:

The foundation of the 1937 Roamer Pants lies in their construction from 11oz selvage denim. Selvage denim is renowned for its quality and durability, produced on shuttle looms that create tightly woven edges, preventing fraying and ensuring a long-lasting garment. The 11oz weight strikes a perfect balance between sturdiness and comfort, making the Roamer Pants versatile enough for both heavy labor and casual wear. The denim’s raw, unwashed nature means it will age beautifully over time, developing unique fades and a personalized patina as it conforms to the wearer’s body and lifestyle.

Buckle back detailing:

One of the most distinctive features of the Pike Brothers 1937 Roamer Pants is the buckle-back detail. This buckle adjustment, located at the back waistband, is a key historical element borrowed from early 20th-century workwear. Originally, this design feature was intended to allow workers to adjust the fit of their pants for greater comfort and functionality. The inclusion of the buckle-back on the 1937 Roamer Pants adds not only a touch of vintage flair but also a practical element that ensures a more customized and secure fit. This feature is particularly appreciated by those who value both aesthetics and utility in their clothing.

The Fit:

In addition to the buckle-back, the 1937 Roamer Pants are packed with other thoughtful design touches. The cut is tailored to provide ample room through the seat and thighs, allowing for freedom of movement, with little tapering down to the leg opening. This traditional work pant silhouette is ideal for layering over boots, making them versatile for outdoor activities, casual outings, or even formalizing a rugged, vintage-inspired look. While these pants are descibed as 'high rise', as 6 foot 2'', they fit me more as a mid-rise sitting above my hips, but well short of my belly button/natural waist. However, I have found that they stay in place throughout the day, enhancing both comfort and practicality.

Build Quality:

The Roamer Pants feature a series of durable metal rivets and button closures, reinforcing high-stress areas and contributing to the overall longevity of the garment. The stitching is robust, often done with heavy-duty threads to ensure durability in even the most demanding conditions. Additionally, the pockets are strategically placed to provide convenience, with deep front pockets and a watch pocket at the right hip—another throwback to traditional workwear.

For denim purists, the 1937 Roamer Pants are a way to celebrate the golden era of American workwear. Pike Brothers has meticulously replicated the details of 1930s trousers, infusing modern quality with timeless design. The result is a pair of pants that not only evoke nostalgia for a bygone era but also deliver practical functionality and aesthetic appeal for the present-day wearer.

These pants are more than just a piece of clothing; they are a statement of craftsmanship, durability, and attention to detail. Whether you're a fan of vintage workwear or someone who values durable, high-quality denim, the Pike Brothers 1937 Roamer Pants are a remarkable choice. Their blend of traditional design elements, such as the buckle-back, and modern material quality ensures they will stand the test of time both in terms of style and function.

Styling these Denims:

Here are some of the combinations that I've made so far - as you can see, these work great with workwear such as my canvas chore jacket from the Shackleton Collection, my heavy wool 740N Peacoat from Schott NYC and my heavy duty work boots by William Lennon & Co.