45RPM Sorahiko

45RPM Sorahiko

One of the basic model from 45RPM, but not so basic when compared to other denim brands top of the lines.

Sorahiko 2011    

Sorahikos are their regular and basic line of denim, using synthetic Indigo. Older Sorahikos were bit roomy throughout the legs, different from the other regular line; Jomon, which are slimmer overall with slightly tapered legs. From 2010 onwards Sorahiko shape has changed for better with straight legs and slim cut and the 2011 is a more refined form of that. From the knee down, the sorahiko 2011 has the same cut as the 2010. There is no real difference in regards to tapering, or fit. The biggest difference is from the thigh to the knee. The Sorahiko 2011 fits a bit slimmer in this area (very very slightly slimmer), and the seat of the pants fits a bitt smaller than the 2010. That is, the seat of the pant isn't as wide as with the 2010. The slimmer thigh also gives the pant a more silhouette look but not cut to the pants. In other words it has a very clean looking, straight cut pant look and feel to it.  this is a unique piece for 45rpm. The fabric is an original creation for this denim; utilizing a thread combining high, refined quality cotton with a clean and simple one. The denim is woven even slower than past Sorahikos, resulting in a bumpy, organic texture that will be durable while softening beautifully. The dye is also changed giving the denim a deeper, truer blue. Made in Japan 100% Cotton.

Sorahikos are synthetic dyed and will age differently resulting a nice contrast fading compared to the Ai dyed Jomon. Some people consider there is something quite "classic" about the Sorahikos, even moreso than their other models. A melding of elegance and rough-hewn simplicity with their pre-WW2 era Levi's like fuller cut, hidden rivets, selvage, chain stitching and an impeccable craft. It isn't the norm, however sizing down by 1 is recommend for the raw older models if you like it tighter, as the waist will stretch after wearing it for some time. Stretching or shrinking is tough in the case of one-wash Sorahikos though. Pre-2010 models shows a green cast to it as a rsult of the different dye, which was nice. If loose cut is your thing, check out Sorahiko Barn which is the most relaxed jean that 45RPM has in it's current line up. Fuller through the leg, higher rise both front and rear than standard Sorahikos. 45RPM used to have another cut called Sorahiko Slim, but it's a special for NYC only. Sorahiko already has something like seven different models including the AD300 Sorahiko.

Sorahikos are surface dyed where the center part of the thread is usually left un-dyed and the white part shows up gradually as the denim made by this method is worn through time, which is known to give a personal feel to the look. Apparently the older Sorahikos take on a green-ish cast over time. Here comes the hidden secret, the center rear belt loop on Sorahikos are natural indigo dyed, and on most jeans, the rear belt loop is the first to fade but here it never fades... Dope! 

Not the true color, flash was on...

Hidden rivets

The general notion is that 45RPM stuffs are overpriced out of Japan as they average a price similar to most other denim brands from Japan. New Sorahikos cost about 26,250 Yens compared to the US price of $368.00 and the Paris price could be even higher, it was around €330.00 couple of years back when the price of US stock was $333.00.