Hard-wearing jersey inspired by ‘70s climbing culture

At first glance, rugby players and climbers might seem to be breeds apart – and admittedly, we can’t see many loosehead props excelling at the crag. But actually, there is an intriguing historical link. Back in the late 1970s, while visiting Scotland on a climbing trip, legendary climber Yvon Chouinard bought himself a striped rugby shirt. He thought these heavyweight jerseys looked ideal for surviving rock rash, and also found that the sturdy collar did a great job of preventing a heavy sling loaded with climbing hardware from rubbing against his neck. Inevitably, a host of other Californian climbers subsequently followed suit, co-opting the classic rugby shirt as their climbing attire of choice. The rest, as they say, is history. Inspired by this unusual culture clash between rugby and rock-climbing, Black & Blue 1871 have produced this heritage outdoor rugby shirt in authentic patterns and colours, finished with a distressed wash for a nicely worn-in look and feel. So, now you too can look like an authentic ‘70s dirtbag climber from Yosemite’s infamous Camp Four.

FEATURES
SIZING
ECO CREDENTIALS
THE BRAND

- Made from heavyweight 380gsm slub cotton, which gives the shirt a hard wearing yet soft and comfortable feel
- Vintage colour dyes and a distressed wash for a nicely worn-in look
- Embroidered 1871 detailing on the back of the neck
- Reinforced hems
- Two rubber button placket
- Machine washable
- Made in Portugal
Check out the full Black & Blue 1871 size guide.

Quick guide - Use the following guidelines along with a fabric tape measure
- Wear minimal or no clothing to get the most accurate measurement
- The shirts have a semi-fitted cut to give a more tailored look but have been designed to be worn with other layers
- If you prefer to wear a t-shirt underneath then we recommend you choose your normal size. If not, then consider a size below for a more custom fit
How to measure: Place the tape around the fullest part of your chest, including your shoulder blades, then drop your arms to your sides to measure.
- Local manufacturing - Made in Portugal
- No plastics in product or packaging
- Drawstring bag is useful as a laundry bag when travelling or as a ‘bag for bags’
To create exquisite, hard-wearing apparel for everyday adventures, Black & Blue 1871 turned back the clock – specifically, to 1871 and the formation of rugby as we know it today. They are inspired by the rugby shirts of old – the ones that prevailed when the game was still a plucky, amateur affair; when shirts were built to last for longer than 80 minutes; when shirts were stylish, and not coated in adverts | READ MORE

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