Abercrombie Ultra High Rise vs. High Rise: What's the difference?

The core difference between Abercrombie's High Rise and Ultra High Rise styles is how high they sit on your waist, an approximately 2-inch difference that changes the entire silhouette. High Rise jeans typically have a 9-11 inch rise, sitting at or just above your natural waist for a classic, flattering fit. Ultra High Rise styles feature a much higher 11-13+ inch rise that cinches at the narrowest part of your torso, offering more coverage and a bolder, more fashion-forward look.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Abercrombie & Fitch jeans for your body and style.

Abercrombie High Rise Jeans

Abercrombie's High Rise jeans are a timeless wardrobe essential, designed to provide a versatile and comfortable fit perfect for everyday wear. Sitting at the natural waistline, they offer a classic look that balances proportions and subtly elongates your legs without being overly compressive or trendy.

• What it is: A classic style of jeans designed to sit at or slightly above your natural waist.
• Key features: The front rise typically measures between 9 to 11 inches.
• Price: Around $70 - $100.
• Sizing/Fit: Tends to be a crowd-pleasing fit that complements most body types by offering balanced proportions and comfortable coverage.
• Pros: Extremely versatile for endless outfits, comfortable for all-day wear, a timeless style that won't feel dated, and flattering on a wide variety of body shapes.
• Cons: Offers less stomach coverage and shaping compared to the Ultra High Rise, and provides a more classic and less dramatic silhouette.

This rise is ideal for anyone seeking a reliable, comfortable, and universally flattering pair of jeans for daily wear.

Shop this product: abercrombie.com/shop/us/womens-high-rise-jeans

Abercrombie Ultra High Rise Jeans

The Ultra High Rise is Abercrombie’s modern, trend-focused take on high-waisted denim. Engineered to sit well above the natural waist, this style provides maximum coverage, cinches you in at your narrowest point, and creates a dramatic leg-lengthening effect often seen in vintage-inspired and contemporary fashion.

• What it is: A fashion-forward style of jeans with a pronounced high waist that sits well above the belly button.
• Key features: The front rise measures about 11 to 13 inches or more.
• Price: Around $70 - $100.
• Sizing/Fit: Creates a very defined waist and an hourglass shape. It’s particularly flattering on those with longer torsos, as it helps balance proportions.
• Pros: Excellent for smoothing and providing a feeling of being 'held in', creates a strong hourglass silhouette, elongates the legs for a striking look, pairs perfectly with crop tops.
• Cons: The higher coverage can feel restrictive to some, especially when sitting for long periods. The very specific fit may not be as comfortable on all body types, particularly those with shorter torsos.

This is the perfect choice for those who love a bold, waist-defining silhouette and want a pair of jeans that makes a statement.

Shop this product: abercrombie.com/shop/us/womens-ultra-high-rise-jeans

High Rise vs. Ultra High Rise Comparison

Fit & Silhouette

The primary difference here is where the waistband hits your torso. The High Rise cut lands comfortably at your natural waist, offering a classic silhouette that has been popular for decades. It's a fail-safe choice that defines your waist in a subtle, natural way.

In contrast, the Ultra High Rise is designed for a more dramatic effect. It extends significantly higher, often cinching at the smallest part of your torso above your navel. This effect noticeably elongates the appearance of your legs and creates a much more pronounced, curvier silhouette that many find very flattering.

Coverage & Comfort

When it comes to coverage, the Ultra High Rise is the clear winner. Many appreciate the secure, held-in feeling it provides around the stomach, offering a smoothing effect under tops. For some, this added coverage translates to more confidence and comfort.

However, the High Rise can be more comfortable for all-day activity or extended periods of sitting. The waistband is less likely to dig into your ribs or feel restrictive, making it a great utilitarian choice for work, travel, or busy days when comfort is the priority.

Styling & Versatility

Both styles are versatile, but they serve slightly different style goals. The classic High Rise jean is a true chameleon, it pairs easily with virtually any top, whether it's tucked, untucked, or slightly cropped. It’s an easy-to-style foundation for any casual or semi-dressy outfit.

The Ultra High Rise is more of a statement piece. It works best with tops that call attention to the defined waist, making it the perfect partner for crop tops, bodysuits, and tightly tucked-in shirts. It channels a more trend-conscious or vintage-inspired aesthetic.

Who Each One Works Best For

The beauty of Abercrombie's High Rise is its universal appeal - it works well for almost every body type. It provides a neat, put-together look without drastically altering your natural proportions.

The Ultra High Rise is especially great for those with longer torsos, as it creates a beautiful sense of balance. It's also an excellent choice for anyone who wants to visually create more curves or accentuate an hourglass figure by drawing attention squarely to the narrowest part of their waist.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both options from Abercrombie are excellent, but they cater to different looks and fit preferences.

Choose High Rise jeans if:

• You prioritize all-day comfort, especially when sitting.
• You want a timeless, versatile pair of jeans for any occasion.
• You prefer a classic silhouette that doesn't feel overly trendy.
• You have a shorter torso and find ultra-high styles can feel overwhelming.

Choose Ultra High Rise jeans if:

• You love a bold, defined waist and an hourglass shape.
• You want maximum coverage and a smoothing effect over your midsection.
• Your wardrobe has a lot of crop tops, bodysuits, or shirts you like to tuck in.
• You have a long torso and want to balance your proportions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Abercrombie High Rise and Ultra High Rise?

The main difference is the length of the rise. A High Rise is typically 9-11 inches and sits at your natural waist. An Ultra High Rise is 11 inches or higher, sitting well above your natural waist to cinch you in at your narrowest point.

Which rise is more flattering?

This depends on your body type and what you're trying to achieve. High Rise has a universally flattering effect for most people. Ultra High Rise is particularly flattering for creating an hourglass shape and for those with longer torsos.

Is an Ultra High Rise comfortable?

For many, the secure, smoothing coverage of an Ultra High Rise feels very comfortable and confidence-boosting. However, some may find the high waistband restrictive after hours of wear, particularly when sitting down.

Which rise is better for a tummy?

The Ultra High Rise typically offers more coverage and a smoothing, "held-in" feeling over the stomach, which many people prefer.

Are Abercrombie jeans true to size?

Most shoppers find that Abercrombie jeans run true to size. However, the fit can vary slightly depending on the specific style and fabric composition (e.g., rigid vs. stretch denim), so it’s always wise to check recent customer reviews for sizing tips on the exact pair you want.

How do you style Ultra High Rise jeans?

They look best with tops that highlight the very high waist. Try them with crop sweaters, fitted bodysuits, stylish bralettes, or basic T-shirts tucked in completely to show off the silhouette.

Will high rise jeans go out of style?

High Rise denim is considered a timeless classic. Silhouettes may evolve, but a well-fitting pair of high-rise jeans that sits at your natural waist is a wardrobe staple that is unlikely to go out of style anytime soon.

Is Ultra High Rise the same as '90s straight jeans?

Not necessarily. While many of Abercrombie's popular '90s Straight styles come in an Ultra High Rise, the term refers to the waist height, whereas "'90s straight" refers to the leg cut (straight from the thigh down). You can find Ultra High Rise in many other cuts, like skinny or flare.