In February 2011, we began working with friend and designer Tomo Saito on a new pair of pants, the first product of an ongoing collaboration between Betabrand and Japanese designers. The big idea: Take the convention of Western designs manufactured in Asia — and turn it on its head.

For this go-around, we took high-end Japanese fabrics and Tomo’s ingenious designs and turned them into trousers made in San Francisco. The result was Japants: hip Tokyo cargoes with an American fit.

The Facts

Olive Herringbone Cotton Pants
with Squash Liner

HOW DO THEY FIT?
In keeping with the Tokyo fashion scene, these pants are slim-fitting. If you’re between sizes, select a size up. With wear they’ll stretch out, so don’t fret if they’re a bit tight at first.

WHAT IF MY INSEAM IS 30″ OR 34″?
We’re a small business, so we offer only a couple of lengths right now. Fortunately, any tailor can hem our pants to a great fit.

HOW DO I CARE FOR THEM?
Wash your Japants in cold water on the gentle cycle and dry on low heat.

VITAL STATISTICS
• Cargo pocket
• Knee patches
• Traditionally dyed Japanese fabric liner