The Flannel Shirt : A Timeless Staple for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Why Reel Sportswear Created the Fisherman’s Flannel

There’s something undeniably classic about a flannel shirt. Whether it’s the rugged outdoorsman vibe, the comfort of wrapping yourself in soft, cozy fabric, or the way it seems to get better with age—flannel is one of those staples that never goes out of style. For us at Reel Sportswear, creating our own version of the flannel felt like a natural extension of our brand’s commitment to quality, durability, and the lifestyle we all love—spending time outdoors.

Let’s take a deeper dive into the history of the flannel shirt and why we’ve developed our very own Fisherman’s Flannel, designed for those who work hard and play harder.

A Little History: The Flannel Shirt Through the Ages

The flannel shirt has humble beginnings, originating in 17th-century Wales. It was developed as a solution to the harsh weather conditions faced by farmers and workers. Crafted from wool at the time, the fabric was brushed to give it softness and warmth, making it ideal for cold, wet environments. As time went on, flannel found its way across Europe and eventually into the hearts (and closets) of workers in the United States.

From logging camps in the Pacific Northwest to construction sites and even the rebellious grunge movement of the 1990s, flannel became a symbol of ruggedness, resilience, and laid-back style. But at its core, the flannel shirt has always been about function—providing warmth, protection, and durability for those who spend long hours in the outdoors.

That same functionality is what inspired us to create the Fisherman’s Flannel, made to meet the demands of our community.

Why We Chose to Create the Fisherman’s Flannel

At Reel Sportswear, we’re always looking for ways to create products that speak to our lifestyle—products that hold up when you're out on the water at dawn, but are just as comfortable when you’re kicking back by the fire at dusk. With the Fisherman’s Flannel, we wanted to offer something that not only looks great but works as hard as you do.

The Fisherman’s Flannel is made with a 60% cotton / 40% polyester blend, giving it that ultra-soft feel we all love, but with added durability to handle the elements. Available in Black and Olive Buffalo plaid, this flannel has a substantial weight that gives it a rugged edge, but it’s also breathable enough for all-day wear. Whether you're casting lines or just enjoying the cool breeze by the shore, the Fisherman’s Flannel is built to keep you comfortable.

Key Features:

• Ultra-soft 200gm 60% Cotton / 40% Polyester blend – You get the perfect balance of comfort and strength.
• Two front chest pockets – Because functionality matters when you're out in the wild.
• Double-layer back yoke – For added durability where it matters most.
• Rollup sleeve vents – Designed for versatility, so you can adapt to the changing weather without missing a beat.

We’re particularly proud of the thoughtful details that make this flannel stand out—like the rollup sleeve vents that add a layer of versatility, and the double-layer back yoke for added durability. These are the kinds of features that make the Fisherman’s Flannel not just a piece of clothing, but a go-to for any adventure, from casting your line in the morning to sitting around the campfire at night.

Why Flannel and Fishing Go Hand-in-Hand

If you’ve ever spent a day on the water when the temperatures start to drop, you know how important it is to have gear that works as hard as you do. That’s what flannel has always been about. It’s the perfect layer for early mornings by the water or those late nights by the fire. And the Fisherman’s Flannel is no exception—it’s built for comfort, but designed for the outdoors.

We wanted to craft something that feels like an extension of our core values at Reel Sportswear: durability, comfort, and a love for the outdoors. The Fisherman’s Flannel is a tribute to all the hardworking men and women who love the ocean, the outdoors, and everything in between.

Whether you’re a die-hard angler or just someone who enjoys the simpler pleasures in life, we think you’ll find that the Fisherman’s Flannel is made with you in mind.