
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Regular fit
Crew neck
Mid weight, 5.3 oz
100% combed cotton Super Soft
Neck ribbing, side seamed, shoulder to shoulder tape, double needle hems, preshrunk to minimize shrinkage
WHAT'S THE STORY?
The photo on this shirt was taken during A16's very first BACKPACKER'S SWAPMEET in 1974 at the Front Street Store in El Cajon, CA just East of San Diego. We knew immediately that the event would be a success when Customers stampeded at the opening bell, flattening the perimeter temporary fencing in the process. The Backpacker's Swapmeet was an annual event in both the San Diego and West LA A16 locations for the next 45 years. This store had been an old house next to the 8 freeway before we moved in in 1972. It was a classic mountain shop with its log siding, creaky wooden floors and big fireplace in the living room, where we sold boots and sleeping bags. Customers would travel from all over the Southwest to buy their gear directly from their friends at the factory. The factory was in the basement, which we dug out by hand and used the dirt to expand and to try to level out the driveway. (No, we didn't get a permit). Over the 5 years we were there, more than one car decided to roll down the steep driveway and into the road or landscaping below. Never a dull moment. Except on Sunday and Monday when we were closed; "Gone Camping or Climbing."