Raw denim is a global phenomenon, no doubt about it. Having started in the United States, and shifted almost entirely to Japan during the latter half of the 20th century, raw denim has seen a massive revival in North America, Europe, and most recently, south-east Asia with countries like Indonesia and Thailand contributing fantastic products.

One nation that is (perhaps unfairly) excluded from the minds of denim heads, though, is China. Seen by many as the origin of cheaply-produced and pre-distressed jeans for the masses, many denim fans shake their head at the thought of raw denim that is “Made In China”.

However, a small number of denim brands in mainland China are producing top-notch jeans made from equally high-quality denim. One such brand is Red Cloud & Co.

The Shenyang-based company produces jeans and other workwear items using the same vintage machinery employed in many better-known brand factories, including the illustrious Union Special.

All of their textiles are made from 100% Chinese cotton from Xinjiang province, which many hold in the same regard as cotton from Zimbabwe and Texas. Of particular note is that all of Red Cloud’s indigo-dyed thread is finished with a final dip in all-natural indigo, instead of a purely-synthetic process.

Distribution outside of China is limited, so check out Tuckshop Sundry Supply if you’re interested in picking up a pair.