Sportif's Original Stretch Shorts

CLASSIC DESIGN. PRACTICAL FEATURES. UNEQUALED COMFORT.

SHOP ORIGINAL SHORT
Man and woman hiking in Original Sportif shorts, taken in the 1970's

CRAFTED WITH INGENUITY. INSPIRED BY COMFORT.

Stretch and sportswear are synonymous now, but in 1965 it took the sharp eye of John Kirsch Sr. to understand the need for dynamic performance clothing. He invented and patented the core-spun classic 670 fabric – polyester and cotton wrapped around spandex – giving the wearer stretch, breathability, and the comfort to move.

Illustration of Sportif 670 fabric, cotton and polyester fibers wrapped around spandex.

As an avid outdoorsman, Kirsch introduced the Original Stretch Shorts to tennis courts, trailheads, and sailboats. Soon, “It became a real commodity...it was neat and tidy, almost nautical, and stretchy and comfortable,” Kirsch’s daughter Kathleen Williamson says.

John Kirsch Sr. sailing.
Details of side view of the shorts.
Details of rear design of shorts.

STILL CRAFTED IN KIRSCH VISION

A customer favorite for over 55 years, they're called the world's best boating shorts for a reason. Still family-owned and operated, the Kirsch family brings you the original Sportif Short to this day. No one else can deliver a time-tested, beloved short with the comfort, style, and durability our customers love.

Original shorts in desert tan.
SHOP DESERT TAN
Original shorts in navy blue.
SHOP NAVY
Original shorts in brown.
SHOP KHAKI TAN
Black Original stretch short.
SHOP BLACK
Man standing in grass wearing Sportif Original Stretch Shorts in khaki tan.
Detail view of Sportif Original Stretch Shorts in khaki tan.

HAVE WORN ORG SHORTS FOR OVER 35 YEARS

"Have worn org shorts for over 35 years, sold them in my fly shop, absolutely the best product on the market. I'm 85 now still fishing and extremely active. Still wear your shorts and shirts, and pants."

- Carl B. 8/9/21

TOUGH AND WORTH THE PRICE

"I found a few pairs of my grandpas from the ‘90s and wore them for years before finally finding the website and pulling the trigger on a pair of my own. They are fricking badass. Definitely size up. I typically wear a 32 in shorts but am way more pleased with 34s from Sportif. Never change, Sportif!"

- Christian. 5/6/21

STARTED TO WEAR THE SHORTS BACK IN THE 70S. BEST EVER. WEAR LIKE IRON.

"The best. Don't wear anything else."

-Bob A. 6/20/19

SPORTIF'S ORIGINAL SHORT REVIEW

"I've had these shorts over a lot of years. Backpacking in all terrains, hiking, fishing and Scouting. They held up. They are well made."

-Ructawaku 8/28/17

TOUGH AND WORTH THE PRICE

"I NOW OWN 23 PAIR OF SPORTIF SHORTS DATING BACK TO THE 1985 ALL EXCEPT 2 ARE STILL IN SERVICE. I CANNOT TELL YOU HOW GREAT THEY ARE. THEY ARE MY YEAR ROUND UNIFORM"

- CAPTHAP 5/29/16

Man leaning off edge of boat overlooking ocean wearing Sportif shorts.

THE SPORTIF WAY

These shorts are for those who enjoy the gentle rock of the ocean and the ability to move with it. For those who value quality, tradition, and style. For those who understand adventure can come from racing a boat across the water as well as from cracking open a beer to enjoy a good view. For all the adventures you seek, the Original Stretch Short will provide sleek, tailored style and performance movement.

SHOP ORIGINAL SHORT