Columbia PFG's masterpiece, the Bahama shirt, celebrates its 30th anniversary. Come to this special 3-day event to enjoy all of its charms.

Columbia's fishing line "Columbia PFG" was launched in 1996. The "Bahama Shirt" was born in the same year as the company's flagship product. There are a number of reasons why this masterpiece, which celebrated its 30th anniversary, continues to be a favorite. We found out the secrets through an event being held at the flagship store in Harajuku until May 17 (Sun.).

Photo_Masashi Ura
Edit_Shuhei Wakiyama

What's a Bahama shirt?

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the birth of the "Bahama Shirt. An event to commemorate this anniversary is being held for three days from May 15 (Fri.) to 17 (Sun.) at the flagship store "Columbia Tokyo Flagship" in Harajuku.

“Performance Fishing Gear. Columbia PFG, which stands for ”Performance Fishing Gear," is literally a line specialized for fishing. What makes the "Bahama Shirt" so special? The reason is that while pursuing functionality, it also has a design that can be worn in the city. It is gear that fits in with everyday life.

The first thing to note is the fabric. It is a cotton-like nylon material designed to feel good against the skin, to be strong, and to be able to withstand being wet. It also has a UPF 50 sun protection feature called "Omni-Shade Broad Spectrum" to keep you comfortable even when exposed to the sun for long periods of time.

The silhouette is a loose, relaxed fit for fishing movements. The back is equipped with ventilation that allows air to enter from three directions so that steam can escape. Thanks to this, you can enjoy the comfort of wind passing through the gap between your clothes and body.

The collar is buttoned down to prevent flapping while keeping the wind at bay. Details such as multi-functional pockets, multi-loops, rod holders, and sunglass holders are designed for the convenience of anglers, but also add to the design.

Bahama II short sleeve shirt, ¥9,350 (Columbia Sportswear Japan)

Bahama II long sleeve shirt, ¥10,450 (Columbia Sportswear Japan)

The "Bahama Shirt" is made by accumulating these details. There are short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts, and this season's lineup includes 14 colors for short-sleeved shirts and 5 colors for long-sleeved shirts. The affordable price means that you can wear the same color as a uniform, or gradually collect colors you do not yet own.

Incidentally, "Columbia PFG" also offers "Tamiami" and "Bonehead" shirts depending on the season. The fabrics, pocket specifications, and silhouettes are different, so please compare them at the store.

History of the Bahamas through archives.

For this event, the vintage clothing store "JAM" is cooperating with us to create a special display and archives of past items. This is also quite interesting.

The display mixes vintage clothing from other brands, archives of past "Bahama shirts," and comparisons of past models.

We call it the "Bahama Shirt," but if we were to call it correctly, it would be the "Bahama II Shirt." The first "Bahama shirt" was sold from 1996 to 2003, and there are some differences in details. For example, the collar is different, as is the regular collar, the shape of the pockets, and the logo used. In terms of perfection, it is definitely the current version. However, the first generation also has a very good taste.

There is a wide selection of shirts, including embroidered shirts of companies and organizations, patterned "Super Bahama" shirts, and remade shirts. Just looking at the shirts was fun and gave us a sense of the possibilities of the "Bahama shirt" as an item.

If these appeal to you, stop by Jam Vintage and Select Harajuku, a one-minute walk from the Columbia Tokyo Flagship.

During the same period, nearly 300 old "Bahama shirts" are collected and sold here. What we have on display are one-of-a-kind pieces that are unique to vintage clothing, custom-made with past designs, limited edition colors, and embroidery, just like the ones that were on display. It is not often that you will find such a rich inventory. It is an impressive lineup, so you are sure to find your favorite piece of clothing.

Special offer for 3 days only.

From the current to the archives. The space was a multifaceted experience, but that's not the end of the story.

That is the custom embroidery service for three days only. During the event period, customers who purchase a "Bahama shirt" at the Columbia Tokyo Flagship can have an archival design embroidered on any location of their choice. The long-established embroidery studio "Joshin Name" in Nagoya is in charge of this service, and you can be sure of the quality of the embroidery. You will be able to create an original piece of clothing that you will love to wear.

In addition, commemorative booklets will be distributed free of charge at the Jam Vintage and Select Harajuku store and Columbia Tokyo Flagship, and stickers will be given away by traveling between the two stores. The booklet is especially exciting with its history, secrets hidden in the details, and coordination suggestions. Don't forget that this is only available for three days starting today!