Gurkha Shorts
Gurkha Shorts originally were called British Safari Shorts when they were authentic surplus items. When they were mass produced they were renamed Gurkha Shorts and were sold for most of the run of the safari catalogues and even into the post-Ziegler 1989-90 era.
From the 1985 catalogue: “The year was 1814. A young British lieutenant led his Indian national troops against Nepal. Border troubles. In one skirmish, the fierce Nepalese so frightened the lieutenant’s troops that his soldiers turned and fled the battlefield. But not the young officer. He stood ground. The Nepalese captured him, asking, “Why didn’t you run, too?” Replied the lieutenant, “I have not come so far in order to run away.” The awed Nepalese said, “We could serve under an officer like you,” and thus Britain inherited the famed Gurkhas. It was specifically for them that Britain designed the classic, famed safari shorts with their deep-pleated design, adjustable waist, huge deep pockets and wide leg.”
Gurkha Shorts (Stars and Bananas Tag)
It’s likely that there were Gurkha Shorts produced (Circa 1983-84) with the original large label. This later Mill Valley label likely is circa 1985.
Gurka Shorts (Zimbabwe Tag)
This label/tag was made for the Zimbabwe factory at some point, presumably after the above Zimbabwe tag.
Gurkha Shorts (Safari & Travel Tag)
Thank you for sharing wonderful memories. For so long, I thought I was the only one.
In several episodes of Mork and Mindy, Robin Williams is wearing the drill pants.
I’m still wearing my khaki Gurkha shorts that I ordered from the catalog in 1984.
i used to own the ‘zimbabwe’ tag shorts, mid 80’s – mid-90’s. crazy how different BR is now from the safari catalog days.
I wore these for a few years in the mid-80s, and have been on a quest to find them ever since. I’ve found close, but never the same thing.
They were incredibly comfortable, and ‘wore’ well.
These were by far the most comfortable shorts I ever owned!