The Bush Shirt. Made for generations.

When William Broome sewed the first stitch on the first ever Swanndri way back in 1913, we’re not sure anyone would have imagined how much of a legend the Bush Shirt would become.

And yet, here we are. Save for a couple of updates made in 1927 (the addition of sleeves and a hood) that original design remains unchanged.

The Bush Shirt is the original genuine original. The foundation of Swanndri and everything we stand for – it’s all woven into the DNA of that garment. Rugged, simple, durable, versatile. Hard-wearing, hard-working, long-lasting.

They last so long in fact, that Bush Shirts inevitably gather stories. Telling tales of who’s worn them, where they’ve been and the adventures they’ve had. We’ve heard yarns of Bush Shirts being used as towels, pillows, blankets bedrolls and even fancy dress. They’ve provided protection from raging bulls, kept lost hunters’ hides warm, and been put up as desperately last resort collateral in games of pool. We bet yours has got a few tales of its own, too.

Bush Shirts are the kind of thing you inherit from your grandad – and pass on to kids of your own. They’re made to last a lifetime – and some. They really are made for generations.

And when eventually, finally, they’re absolutely worn out and have done their dash as a dog blanket, they can be returned to the earth they came from. That’s right, Bush Shirts are made using completely biodegradable New Zealand wool – you can read more about it here.

When it comes down to it, we back all our gear. But if we had to hang our hat on one thing, it’d be the Bush Shirt. Fair to say it’s iconic. Fair to say it’s a legend – worn by legends. It’s been the garment of choice for farmers, growers, foragers, hunters, adventurers and outdoorspeople for 110 years – and counting. And we reckon that’s worth celebrating.

So grab your favourite Bush Shirt, get out there and give it a few more stories to tell. And if you don’t have one hanging pride of place on the back porch coat rack, you know what to do.

The Bush Shirt. Made for generations.