Exploring the Popularity & History of "Harley-Davidson" T-Shirts

As the vintage boom takes hold, T-shirts from the 1980s and 1990s, including band and anime T-shirts, are gaining popularity. Among these, the T-shirts of Harley-Davidson, known as the "Harley Tee," have also become trendy items.

Recognized worldwide as a historic motorcycle manufacturer, Harley-Davidson has an equally rich history in apparel, with popular classic graphic items released every year.

This time, I spoke with Satoshi Ezaki, a stylist and the art director at Harley-Davidson Japan K.K., about the history of Harley-Davidson's apparel and the trends surrounding popular T-shirts.

Harley-Davidson's Apparel: Continuing for Over a Century

Let's first delve into the history of the brand. It's important to note that Harley-Davidson, with its 122-year history as a motorcycle manufacturer, dived into apparel early on, leading to a considerable legacy in fashion as well.

"Harley-Davidson was born in 1903 in Wisconsin, USA. The founders were William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson, combining their names to form 'Harley-Davidson.'

"Arthur's brothers, Walter Davidson and William A. Davidson, also joined, making it a four-person operation at its inception."

"Harley-Davidson began its apparel expansion shortly after its founding in the 1910s, boasting a history of over 100 years in clothing.

"In 1912, the iconic 'Bar and Shield' logo that everyone recognizes was born. In the 1920s, race jerseys bearing the logo were introduced.

"In that era, motor companies believed that achieving good results in races would drive sales, so they launched race jerseys that became explosively popular items."

Evolving with the Times & Lifestyle: Harley-Davidson's Wear

There’s an enduring saying within Harley-Davidson:

"By revitalizing the culture that includes the lifestyle of Harley-Davidson users, we can create a significant market."

By focusing on fashion alongside motorcycles and proposing a full revitalization of lifestyle, it has become widely known even to those who do not ride motorcycles.

"In the past, motorcycles were not merely vehicles for long journeys but were used in a more casual, everyday manner. Therefore, the clothing worn while riding was primarily casual.

"Later, in the 1930s, the so-called original 'Riders Jacket' was commercialized, and in the 1950s, many sporty wear items that would become roots of modern motorsports were released. Items created in response to changing times eventually penetrated lifestyles and became classics."

Popular Classics with Vintage Appeal

Now, let's take a look at some actual current items. Harley-Davidson releases a significant number of items each season. Among these, let's highlight some classic, popular T-shirts with continued emphasis from Ezaki.

"First, we have the 'Nightrider T-shirt,' featuring the iconic logo 'Bar and Shield' we just discussed. This Bar and Shield motif is always popular and remains a quintessential item."

"Next, the eagle motif also boasts a long history and is a popular item. The 'Eagle Rider T-shirt' depicts a bike from the 1980s and is truly representative of Harley-Davidson."

"Many people may recognize the graphic known as '#1.' This is also one of the representative motifs of Harley-Davidson.

"As for classic items, the '#1 Racing Long Sleeve T-shirt' is available, and this #1 graphic is featured on various products."

"Champion" × Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson's apparel releases collaborative items with various brands. This season, the collaboration with "Champion" has gained attention as both are American brands. Let's delve into this item as well.

"Harley-Davidson occasionally releases various collaborations with different brands. In the past, we've worked with 'REYN SPOONER,' known for Hawaiian shirts, and this is the second collaboration with Champion.

"We released two items: the iconic 'REVERSE WEAVE®' and the heavyweight 'Fanatic Tee,' which is quintessentially Champion.

"The item to watch for in the coming season is definitely the Fanatic Tee."

The design planning for all items is currently done entirely in the U.S. and is being marketed globally. Harley-Davidson is not only a representative motorcycle brand of America but also a leading apparel brand from the country.

While it's undoubtedly lucky to find a vintage Harley-Davidson T-shirt, do check out the timeless classics still being produced today.

Every year, Harley-Davidson Japan K.K. holds an event called "BLUE SKY HEAVEN 2025." This event, featuring motorcycles, music, food, and fashion, offers enjoyment not only for riders but also for families and various individuals.

This year's event will be held on May 10th and 11th at Yamashita Pier in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Many Harley-Davidson T-shirts will be available for purchase there, so it might be worth checking out too.