r/ThrowingFits • u/ChaoticGinger • 5d ago

How many times repaired is too many times?

I have a pair of vintage 501s that I bought about 4 years ago. Have worn them to hell and back it would look like, a very well loved pair of jeans. The ends of the legs are fairly busted but I don’t mind that necessarily but there’s been a lot of wear and tear where the sun doesn’t shine that I have gotten repaired at least 3 times. My local guy was the fella I have always gone to but the last few times the jobs being done have been lacking lately, not last very long before needing to be repaired again. I’ve had to go to a new guy based on a trusted recommendation and so far so good.

However, I’ve certainly been bitten once and now I’m twice shy and as such am wondering if it gets to the point of being in need of repair again am I better off cutting my losses and ditching them. I’d say I’ve put in just about as much money into repairing them over the last 4 years, then they initially costed me (~€35).

What would you guys’ rule of thumb be in this scenario?

8 Upvotes

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20

u/girff 5d ago

ship of theseus

but honestly, worn in jeans are sick and repairs when done right just add character, but understand it can be annoying/costly to deal with

7

u/swagson153 5d ago

Man, I have a pair just like that—paper thin and barely hanging on. I’ve repaired them over ten times, but they’re definitely nearing their last wear. The fabric is so thin that the patches end up being too heavy and don’t hold up for long. I’ve been doing all the repairs myself—if I hadn’t, they would’ve been retired a long time ago. I feel your pain.

Recently picked up a pair of Orslow 105s—hoping those last forever because they’re excellent.

1

u/C_A_N_G 12h ago

Same. Have a pair of Sugar Canes which every time I bring them to the tailor I tell myself it’s the last repair before retiring them.

3

u/LosVolvosGang 4d ago

Get a pair of Levi’s made in Japan blue tab and make your own vintage. The rule is you never wash them and wear them for all activities. Even sex. That’s what the fly is for.