For those who love Americana and military wear, when it comes to “Baker Pants,” the first thing that comes to mind is the "GUNG HO" “FATIGUE 4 POCKET PANTS.”
To delve deeper into the renowned GUNG HO pants, which have a history of being produced since the 1970s, we spoke with Seiya Sasai from the Jeans & Casual Section of Itochu Corporation's Textile Company, and Shinya Kitahara, representative of sunny inc.
Started as a Factory Sewing Uniforms for the U.S. Military
Let’s start by learning the history of GUNG HO. When we asked Sasai about its roots, he conveyed a deep sense of the brand's consistent lineup.
"Founded in 1972 in Texas, USA, under the name ‘Earl's Manufacturing Company Inc,’ the company started its business as a factory sewing uniforms such as military pants for the U.S. military.
"In the 1980s, the work & military wear brand ‘GUNG HO’ was launched. Currently, the company has changed its name to ‘Earl's Apparel,’ and the second-generation representative is Larry Beard. However, the GUNG HO brand, rooted in military uniforms, remains unchanged."
Earl's Apparel headquarters in Texas, USA. Larry, who is the representative, is in the center of the second row; Sasai is on the right in the front row.
The Unwavering Standard “FATIGUE 4 POCKET PANTS” of the Rare Brand GUNG HO, Persisting with Made in USA
GUNG HO has maintained its commitment to Made in USA since its founding, with items produced in its headquarters factory. While various American brands are shifting production overseas, GUNG HO insists on Made in USA materials.
Such brands are expected to become even more precious in the future. Let's hear more about the unwavering standard, the FATIGUE 4 POCKET PANTS, from Kitahara.
"First and foremost, the Made in USA FATIGUE 4 POCKET PANTS come in two silhouettes dubbed as standards. The most classic straight ‘ORIGINAL’ and the ‘TAPER-FIT’ type, which has a stronger taper towards the hem.
"These two silhouettes, including their specifications, have remained unchanged. The trademark front two pockets and flap-closed hip pockets, among other basic designs as military work pants, have been passed down to this day.
"The back satin fabric used for these pants is still Made in USA, ensuring an unchanging quality and sense of security.
"GUNG HO has various types of brand names, but the purple brand name attached to these pants is the one most people are familiar with.
"These FATIGUE 4 POCKET PANTS are often called ‘Baker Pants,’ which according to different theories, stems from them being widespread among civilians and reportedly worn by bakers, thus earning the name.
"In fact, the term ‘Baker Pants’ is commonly used in America too, so feel free to call them by either name. The Made in USA line cherishes American production roots and continues to faithfully produce these items."