>You do realize that you are buying Levis is like buying a Pepsi in that no matter where you buy it you are getting the same product right? Store where you purchase the item does not magically change the quality.

I personally have not found this to be correct both in personal experience and in searching the net as to why. Here's a brief summary of the phenomenon.

For jeans, I'm just wanting something that will last multiple years, that will wear in as denim should, and won't rip at a seam, pocket, or rivet with basic, non-work use. The jegging trend seems to add comfort at the price of durability, but that's my armchair hypothesis. Other types of pants, like what the Duluth Fire Hose pants seem to be, would be for working around the house, outdoor training exercises etc.