Stand Up for Your Favorite

We've been having a conversation here at Patagonia of late; one that comes up often. The conversation is about some of our classic designs, time-tested pieces, old favorites. Some of the questions tossed out there:

What do we do with those "classics"?
Where have they gone?
Should they come back?
How do the current designs compare to these time-tested pieces?

Some items seem to find their way into each new version of this old conversation. Our classic Stand Up Shorts are one of them.

This recent colorful installment from our Customer Feedback vaults (below) leaves us wondering: Just how deep does the love of original Stand-Ups run? Perhaps the loyalty here transcends the Marsupial luv described by Matt in Greenie & The Man Truck. Read on for a true and gripping account of one customer's undeniable allegiance to the classic Stand-Up design, but be warned: the words are not for the faint of heart . . .

[Photo: Big shout out to Meester Tim for ferreting out this true gem from the Patagonia archives. You can almost smell the love in this picture.]

(ed. note: We did our best to stay true to the original format and words used in this letter; however, in a nod toward decency we've buffed over some of the more colorful terms.)

F*** you!
I am outraged at your prices and the fact that you b*****ds canceled the original "stand up short"
You are planned obselescenes in action!  I think you are republican b*****ds !
Vote for "Stand - up Original" The rest are Patagonia fakes!
I am a true believe i the original Patagonia!
Not the yuppie sh&t you are at [present
I love your original products-go retro!
You sent me alternative shorts in my last order.
I wanted a swim suit type shore and you sent me a flimsy bike short!
My b*lls hang out of it!
I am your best friend! You are becoming a run of the mill company.
Go back to "stand-up originals!!!!
Also ,f*** the alternative colors.We the people want hte original beige stand up shorts\{
This is a revolution and you are either going to meet the needs of the people ot go down as a yuppi joke!!
Love [Name withheld]

Tell us what YOU think.

[Photo: From the back of the closet . . . The Original Stand Up Short, just like it says on the tag]

Comments

[SF]

The men's long Stand Up Shorts were perfection. Absolute perfection.

[cortez]

show some love and bring back river shorts too!

[Charlotte]

wow. That's some passion about a pair of shorts.

I can't rant that well, but here goes: The shorts that really stood up all by themselves were much better than the ones we can buy today. I know, because around 1979, I aged out of confirmation class at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church. While the rest of the girls in the class received silver crosses or pearls as presents from their parents, mine gave me a pair of stand up shorts. Weird, because I hadn't even asked for such a thing, but I was glad to have them.

They bought them from a place called Taum Sauk Wilderness Outfitters in Boone County, Missouri. I wore them continuously from the age of 14 until I was about 23 or 24, when my hips widened out and they didn't fit anymore. They were ragged at the hems and quite stained. I finally tossed them out right before moving cross-country.

Just a few months ago, I bought a new pair of stand up shorts, and there is no way they are ever going to stand up--by themselves or with help. They are more like Sag Down Shorts, and I am disappointed. They don't fit very well (ie: they aren't going to "break in" to fit my butt and nobody else's), and they are just like every other pair of shorts in the world I could buy. If they aren't going to stand up, why call them stand ups?

Awaiting the revolution,
Charlotte

[Robert Mayville]

RE: GI II quick-dry pants

1) Put the zipper back on the cargo pocket...the velco patches blow out too easily

2) Put a belt on it that actually holds...current models use slick nylon webbing that slides back through the buckle too easily

[Sinjin Eberle]

The original stand-up shorts are the best...the best...the best...

[Jono Fisher]

The original stand-up shorts are still the best. Very comfortable for hang gliding too.

[Hank]

I think I am looking for another provider of outdoor clothing is what I think. You have sacrificed functionality for fashion. Much too fashion forward at the expense of functionality. Also, while I am at it, I think Chouinard is a hypocrite. How many winter coats is enough?

[Paul Webb]

Agreed, original stand up shorts were fabulous. Those, along with Royal Robbins blue water shorts are my absolute all time favorites. My blue waters look like the upper pair in the photo. My stand ups are in considerably better condition, though still well worn and comfortable. Bring back the originals. I can't even get myself to consider buying nylon stand ups!

[localcrew]

Great to see these comments! Agreed on the Gi II's and definitely on the River Shorts . . . much missed. RE the hypocrisy comment, this NPR interview from 2005 makes for an entertaining listen:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=4967134

Keep the good reads coming!

lc

[Roger]

'03 Talus Pants.
The most utilitarian pants ever. Alpine climbing in the Bugaboos, canoeing in Ontario, ice climbing in Colorado, winter trail-running in Michigan. These pants are near perfect (need a zippered fly). Not too heavy, not too light, perfect stretch and durability. You can actually see your feet when climbing, unlike all the baggy-legged pants on the market today.
rOg

The Patagonia classic that i still cherish and baby is the Dualspun long-sleeved khaki shirt that I bought from Patagonia mail order in 1985.

It's been with me to the Great Wall of China, Mongolian yurts, Fijian surf breaks, and the top of the Grand Teton three times.

It's also done sterling service through grad school, moving out west from Massachusetts, getting married and becoming a dad.

The collar has been relined three times, and the cuffs twice, but the yolk and the front pockets are still good to go.

Whenever I put it on, I KNOW that I'm off to some adventure, that's one of the reasons it's become a talisman.

If you ever bring back Dualspun fabric againin your line, let me know- I'll be down for six.

[CM]

To comment on the fashion vs function posts. I tend to stick with more of the functioning pieces (Cap t's, socks etc etc) and understand that in order to get the core functioning pieces I use you need to create pieces that are more lifestyle oriented. It's the balance that I think some people are missing. To have the tech piece you need the logo t to sell so you can explore and experiment in the items that don't sell as much. The fact you are asking for our feedback is better than most companies who are only concerned with the bottom line. Side note: That Environment Annual was impressive and I suggest all those wanting to switch from Patagonia pick up this annual first and then make your decision. Double side note: The GI 2 does need a zipper on the side pocket but low profile like the back pocket.

[Free]

Here's a link to a PDF version of the Environment Annual CM mentioned:

http://www.patagonia.com/pdf/en_US/Env_Book_2007.pdf

You might be able to find one at your local Patagonia Retail Store, but we didn't print a ton of them.

[Steve]

Some thoughts:

Bombacha pants (mid-late 80s?) were fantastic.

A gridman parka went for over $400 on Ebay the other day...

My circa 1990 synchilla jacket still serves me really well. I have ditched several other newer jackets that just aren't as good.

[jf]

Give us stand up for good!

[Kurt]

My 3-year old Stand-Ups go everywhere, belaying to bleeding brakes last night. I can't attest to what they once were, but mine have been worn far longer and far more often than any other piece of clothing in my closet. Hands down. And they're still rocking.

One loyal fan I am.

[John Blyth]

Classic case of what your perception of function is.

Sure the new stuff is light, fast, and engineered to be the best, just like an expensive european sports car. But are sports cars functional? Yea sure, they go damn fast; however you put one on to a logging road and drive it fast, then you tell me it's functional. And i think a lot of your stuff is going this way, look at some of the alpine stuff. I've put so many holes in my DAS parka, it's unreal, not even from that abusive of use either. this would be ok if i was a sponsored climber and got my gear for free; however as your average joe, i'd like to not be afraid to use my stuff for fear of it self destructing.

[George]

I used to have a reversible nylon lined fleece pullover from you guys - and you sorta brought it back this year, but you didnt!

The one I had, and literally wore to pieces, was lined with Synchala (sp?) fleece like the Snap-tee and packed down into its front Kangaroo pocket.

Simply perfect and not too warm or bulky like the current pile lined one is (I have one of those from a few years ago)

Bring back the original! Much better, much more conformable, much less bulky, and you could wear it all fall - something the pile lined one is too warm for!

George, it sounds like you're talking about the Glade Runner. Alas, pictures of that classic piece are hard to come by. We do have a new product called the Reversible Snap-T Pullover (http://www.patagonia.com/web/us/product/product_focus.jsp?OPTION=PRODUCT_FOCUS_DISPLAY_HANDLER&catcode=MAIN_FA07_US.CLOTHING_GEAR.MENS.PULLOVERS&style_color=25465-430&ws=)

You know the drill with us; that Iron Clad Guarantee is there for a reason ;-)

Same goes for you, John. Sorry to hear about the troubles with your DAS. Our Returns Dept. is here to help you out with problems like that. Some of our best improvements are made after getting a chance to see first-hand the products that disappointed customers send back to us. If you'd like more details for returning something, drop us a line at customer_service@patagonia.com.

[Louis Shively]

Bring back the organic cotton stand up pants they are the best!

[Tom]

I have three original stand up shorts, two organic cotton and one from before you had organic cotton, they are the best shorts I own, bring them back.
Tom

[tom]

men's standups with the 6" inseam - the best. both my pairs are in shreds. and the pants, too, with the double knee and stand-up pockets. i'm sure the nylon model currently offered is very nice, but i miss my cotton canvas. bring 'em back, for love of god!

[Jay Jurkowitsch]

As loyal as I am to Patagonia and I own many types of Patagonia clothing and such, I'm always disapointed when they drop a product that I like and use. This blog has been a good one to read and all the replies as well - so, even though I might be branded a traitor - here is a pair od shorts that comes 'close" to the old Stand-Up shorts; the Arborwear Tree Climbers Shorts!! They are tough enough to stand on thier own - they alst as long as the Patties and wear justa as good. Check them out!!

[Free]

Jay,
In honor of Talk Like a Pirate day all I can say is, "Get out the plank, there's a traitor in our midst! Arrgh!" : )

Seriously though, we really appreciate all the honest feedback. I can't guarantee the return of the old-school Stand Ups, but we're definitely taking your comments to heart. So break out the ale and keep 'em coming.

[AG]

I speak for all the outdoor enthusiast of Raleigh NC when I say "bring back the original stand up's." Ya'll had it right with the fit durability!

Classic style never changes! Look to the Hills for inspiration!

[DB Mc Donald]

I came to the site to order like 6 pairs of new stand up shorts and all I see are completely frickin' oddball surf shorts that are of course as long as women's skirts and some other short available in only one color called a "work short". You people must be on GLUE. Where are my ***damn stand ups? What happened to the Chouinard of old. Is this progress? Please get ahold of yourselves and have a really good time while bringing the beloved Stand- Up Heavy Weight Short Back Imfrickin' immediately.

Thanks. I hope. Otherwise screw you.

[Peggy Murdock]

I came upon this site by doing a search for Patagonia Women's Stand Up Shorts. I do this periodically in hopes of finding my old favorites - which I wore daily as part of my work attire and off-work for recreation. I lived in those shorts, they fit me like a glove unlike today's version. I didn't find any "true" Stand Up Shorts but I did find a site loaded with people who feel the same as I. Listen to us - show us you listen and care - bring back the old Stand Ups.
Waiting anxiously,
Peggy

[localcrew]

That's an nice comment, Peggy. Thanks for taking the time to share it in the midst of your search. I can tell you the folks around here are taking notice of the commentary and--more importantly--the allegiance. If you have friends who feel like you do about those Stand-Ups, encourage them to leave their two-cents here as well.

many thanks, lc

[Carlo]

I'm not sure the Stands-Up short (I've got my father's ones) are so important.
I don't think that the company have been wrong changin the shorts design.
and I don't agree with ones who criticize the new trend of the company, considering it more fashioned.
I'm Italian and from here I look at Patagonia as a "less-fashioned" company, compared to TNF for example.
Off course, some classics, or some old stuff well made in USA have got a charm, and gives a kind of sense of prestige, wearing it.
I've bought a thick jacket fleece similar to the "Classic Retro-X" and the "R4" (without the windbloc).
I got it on ebay at 21dollars, shiping costs included.
I mean....15/16 euros for me.
It's been a super deal!
I'm not a vintage feticist,but I gained a great,warm, comfortable, undistructible Patagonia fleece jacket without spending 150 euros, but 10 times less.
This is a matter of having produced high quality items for years. So....well done.

Carlo

[J. Williams]

I loved the stand up shorts and if they where available I would get a pair, even though it is 30 degrees outside and raining...

[Shiva]

I have been reading all these posts, and just had to pipe in. I dream, live, and think of Patagonia--the real space down terra; and the store. I have to agree: since mid 90s, somehow the quality of stuff has just not been up to measure. And it is not just nostalgia for the good old days. I have a capilene lined shelled jacket for women that I bought in 1992--still wears well, and never quite replicated by any other patagonia product. I have a lightweight shell/lined with lt wt fleece circa 1998--that is perfect too. The new Houdini's don't cut it. And what on earth is going on with the new patagonia fleeces? Particularly the women's line? It looks terrible; and the fit seems to be for "young women" who have no "bodies." I mean...really--I am a petite 8 or 10 everywhere except when it comes to Patagonia clothes where i need a LARGE?!! Folks: you really need to redo your sizing. And while I understand the need to sell and the need to keep up, some of these new designs are just not cutting it.
I still have your Tshirt circa 1992 and have had to return all my long sleeve ts bought last year!

[Nancy]

I just have to agree with the last poster--according to your size charts I'm supposed to wear like a 14 in your shorts! And anywhere else I'm a 10. Can't help it, I'm not fat just stocky and muscular :o) And I was going to buy a new snap-T pullover, but the womens' styles are cut pretty wierd, so I'm just getting an older one from ebay instead. Personally, I'm a girl who goes for a more functional, straight-lined, classic style, and that's what I love about you guys.

[Justin]

I know you've moved away from Gore-Tex, but bring back the Super Alpine. That is the greatest jacket ever created.

[Matt Coleman]

Iv'e been wearing patagonia threads since the mid 80's. Back then I would buy from Outdoors Inc. in memphis tennessee. I loved the CLASSIC standups and my favorite thing ever was the Bombacha pants. I had probably 2 dozen pair as long as ya'll made them. I wore them everyday for probably 5 or 6 years. I still have a couple of pair that ar hanging on by a thread. I only wear them on special occasions and still get comments. They have survived painting, wrenching, plumbing, tree cutting, and everything in between.
I also was a fan of the origional fly fishing line. Those vests were perfect for everything from fishing to hunting. Every one in my hunt clubs and fish clubs had one. And some still wear them! I have to say that your products back then definitley had a more "hand-crafted" feel back then.

I always look and hope that I will walk in a stor soon and see that you have brought back Bombatcha pants someday.

[Margie]

I have to echo the womens sizing sentiment. A couple years ago when it was time to purchase some new gear I realized that I still had a handful of Patagonia items that I had been packing around for 20 plus years. Most have been stained in one way or another but the integrity has held up amazingly well. For this reason I decided to only purchase this brand. Unfortunately I was only able to purchase clothing for the top half of my body, because, the bottom portion, they just don't fit. The waists are incredibly small and the legs are so long! In sort of a barbieish way. Although considerably more expensive, I had to purchase brand y bottoms because they fit in the waist and inseam better. I wear a small (4-6) in this brand and most others, but would have worn like a 12 in patagonia and the legs were a mile long. The good thing about the womans sizing is I can purchase XS products for my 10 y.o. daughter and she can wear higher quality than what is normally offered in her kids size M, so it's not all bad, but the handful of standup shorts I have, never fit well enough to feel the love. Please look into your womans sizing. I love both my old and new products from you except the pants which have never fit, even when I was 20, 115 pounds with a 24" waist. The waist to inseam proportion is just way off for the average ( even average athletic ) woman. The women essentially whom buy your products.

[David]

I love the Bombacha pants, especially the great blue dobby denim material. I'd kill to get another pair. Not much hope to think that Patagoochie will ever make them again.

[damselfli]

the originals.
the best.
i agree - what he said!

[bombacha lover]

I'm an employee here at Patagonia; Bombachas were the finest pants ever made, bar none, and their disappearance is the planet's second greatest loss after that of wilderness itself. Bombacha lovers, everywhere, raise high your voice for their return. Melt the stone heart of our Chief Pants Accountant, who so long ago deemed their banishment due to the trifling issue of lackluster sales. Bombachas are a matter of the heart. Bombachas were ahead of their time. Their time is now... bring 'em back!

I agree! I love my indigo blue dobby bombachas that still fit me from many years ago. Too bad Patagonia stopped many them, bring 'em back.

[Leif Heide]

Bombachas, Indeed!

[Robert]

Two things I'd buy right now if I could get them....

1. A reversible glissade parka. Not the pullover, the full zip. Most. Useful. Jacket. Ever.

2. Bunting gloves. Since '87 I've had mebbe 7 pair. Make 'em and I'll buy 7 more right away.

[Jennifer Dashner]

While doing some research at Iowa State University (clothing design major), I have found that with the current economic situation, people are definitely wanting things that are high quality, even if they are at a higher price. I'd go with the old short, if it is going to hold up longer and it fits better. I love that this company asks people their opinions.

[boki evans]

i've been wearing patagonia since i was wearing chouinard.

BOMBACHAS!
I'd buy four pair straight away, and then buy more to replace them as i put holes in them. i have one pair, green corduroy, still in perfect condition, and one pair in the brown twill that are virtually rags.
i sure wish you'd produce them again.
don't 'update' them or change them in any way.
if i couldn't wear sarongs, i'd choose my bombachas.

i'd also love to see the return of the glissade pull-over, and the original rock bottoms with the zippered slash pockets, i still sometimes wear my now raggedy purple ones.

make BOMBACHAS, again!

[boki evans]

bombachas!

i meant to say that my hobo pair is the [i]brushed[/i] brown twill.

when will you start making them again?
how will we know when they'll be available?
can we start a bombacha mailing list?

[localcrew]

This e-mail just showed up in our Inbox. Classic!

-----Original Message-----
Sent: Monday, March 02, 2009 8:54 AM
To: CUSTOMER_SERVICE
Subject: Comments from . . .

State: PA
Country: US

Comments:
Dear Patagonia,
Thought you might be interested in a little advertising for the quality of your hiking shorts. I put a pair on a mannequin I had "climbing" up the side of my themed restaurant 12 years ago and they have been out there all that time 24/7 and still haven't rotted off.

[More Bombachas]

Others wrote about the demise and hopeful return of the beloved Bombachas. Please bring them back. I'm now an older fart and would love to wear them again and think that the younger generation would find them quite hip today too.

As long as others are mentioning other favorites, I'd love to see the return of the Snap Shirt. I still amaze friends at outdoor evening activities with the shirts unique tight weave that did not allow a mosquito proboscis to penetrate and sting. I have two short sleeve and two long sleeve items, love their clean lines and utility. With the west nile scare all the rage, I'd think these would be a naturally great selling item today.

About five years ago I sent Patagonia a letter requesting both of these items return to production. I'm still hopeful.