Hand died denim from Japan is always a good sign. Here’s an exclusive first look as Context drops another collabo today, this time with Kicking Mule Workshop for an ultra limited-edition pair of denims. A small production of only 50 pairs worldwide, the shuttle-loomed denim leaves a clean white selvage line—but the dying process is what really sets them apart.

CH gives us the down low on the process here. To make the dye, harvests of the indigo leaves from the Okayama Prefecture in Japan happen only twice yearly. Referred to as the AWA method, the leaves ferment for the dipping stage, which takes place in Kojima City, Okayama Prefecture by hand over several weeks.

The upshot is an organic indigo color that lends the Context x Kicking Mule Workshop 1980 Hand Dye Jean a distinct look, deeply rooted in the region’s history. Each pair comes with an informational pocket insert detailing the technique (also printed by the dye company) and they’re numbered on the inside pocket, as well as on the Context muslin carrying sack.