Vintage men's sportswear is hard to find, especially pre-1960. This is a casual sportswear pullover with a crewneck knit collar, waistband & cuffs. There are two patch-style chest pockets with flaps. A helpful researcher was able to find an ad for an almost identical shirt, missing only the pockets, from May 1940: "Long sleeve, slipover style sports shirt that many men are finding ideal for fishing. Styled of Zelan poplin and treated to resist rain and sports."
SIZE: Labeled M
| Measurements | Inches | Cm |
| Chest | 44.5" | 113 |
| Shoulders | 19.25" | 48.75 |
| Neck opening, stretched | 24" | 61 |
| Length | 21" | 53.25 |
| Sleeve length | 21.75" | 55.25 |
| Shirt bottom circumference, stretched | 32" | 81 |
FABRIC/COLORS: The fabric is woven, medium to heavy weight - not as heavy as canvas. Feels like cotton, with a smooth surface. Color is tan/cream. The collar, cuffs, and bottom are done in a rib knit - also feels cottony - color is darker tan.
TAGS: Rugby Chummy "For All Good Sports". The novelty label includes a silhouette of a footballer who just made a good kick. The Rugby Knitting Mills were located in Buffalo New York, from 1905 until 1970 under several different names.
CLOSURES: N/A, the shirt pulls on over the head.
CONDITION: Someone must have played pretty rough contact sports in this, leaving multiple tan to grayish stains, even after washing - see closeups of most noticeable areas. I rather like the partial sole imprint on the right upper chest! I do not see any holes or tears. Even the ribknit seems completely intact.