Stubbies Original Rugger Cotton Drill Shorts
Stubbies shorts have been a classic wardrobe staple for casual and work wear since they were first introduced to Australia in 1972. The Stubbies Original Rugger Shorts keep that same Aussie spirit, with a few comfort-focused updates along the way.
Made from durable 100% cotton drill with a softer wash, Ruggers are designed for blokes who want the Stubbies feel without the starch finish. They’re easy to wear, easy to move in, and made to get on with the job, whether that’s work, weekends, or anything in between.
Why You’ll Love Them
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A true Aussie original - Built on the Stubbies legacy since 1972
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Comfort-first design - Full elastic waistband with adjustable drawcord
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Softer cotton finish - Washed for comfort, not stiff like the originals
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Hard-wearing drill fabric - 205gsm cotton made to last
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Practical pocketing - Taped side pockets plus back patch pocket
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Everyday easy wear - Comfortable from the first wear, no breaking in required
Product Details
Fabric: 100% Cotton Drill
Weight: 205gsm
Finish: Soft wash (not starch finished)
Fit: Original Rugger fit
Waist: Full elastic waistband with internal drawcord
Pockets: Taped side pockets, right back mitred patch pocket, internal fob pocket
Style: Stubbies Original Rugger Shorts
Wear: Casual or work
The Stewart’s Menswear Advantage
At Stewart’s Menswear, we stock both Original Stubbies and Ruggers because they suit different ways of wearing the same great idea. Ruggers are for blokes who want that familiar Stubbies DNA, with a bit more give and comfort built in. Same honesty. Same reliability. Just a softer feel that works straight off the hanger.
That’s the kind of evolution we can get behind.
Local Style Tip
If comfort’s your priority, Ruggers are hard to beat. Wear them with a tee or work shirt during the day, then keep them on for the arvo — they’re made for all-day wear, not just first impressions.
Want the same comfort with extra length? Try the Stubbies Ruggers Long Leg option
Stubbies Original Rugger Cotton Drill Shorts - FAQ's
Stubbies vs Ruggers: What’s the Difference?
Stubbies is the iconic Australian shorts brand, first introduced in 1972, while Ruggers are one of the specific styles within the Stubbies range. Original Stubbies feature a half-elastic waistband with a traditional starch finish and a classic short leg, designed to be hard-wearing and practical. Ruggers are a comfort-focused evolution, with a fully elastic waistband (often with a drawcord), a softer wash finish, and options in both short and longer leg lengths. Both are built tough and easy to wear - it simply comes down to whether you prefer the original structured feel or a more relaxed, all-day comfort fit.
Are Rugger shorts stiff like original Stubbies?
No, Ruggers are soft washed for comfort, making them easier to wear straight away.
Do Ruggers come in different leg lengths?
Yes, Ruggers are available in both the original short leg and longer leg options.
Are Rugger shorts suitable for work?
They are. The durable cotton drill and flexible waistband make them ideal for hands-on days.
Which Stubbies Are Right for You?
All Stubbies share the same Aussie style, it just comes down to how you like them to feel.
Original Stubbies
Crisp, structured, and true to the original design.
Starch finish, half elastic waist, classic feel.
Ruggers
Comfort-first evolution of Stubbies.
Full elastic waist, drawcord, softer wash.
Ruggers – Long Leg
Same comfort as Ruggers, with extra length.
Pigment Dyed Ruggers
Softer again, with a lived-in look and feel from day one.
Cargo Ruggers
Everyday practicality with extra pockets where you need them.
Jersey Sweat Ruggers
Knit fabric comfort for work, sport, school, and weekends.
Same honest shorts. Just different ways of wearing them.
