[Review] FamilyMart’s New Shorts – Affordable Summer Wear in Japan, but With a Few Downsides
Hi, this is Kimura from northern Tokyo.
It’s been over a month since my last blog post, and in that time Tokyo has entered full summer mode. Recently, daily highs have reached up to 35°C (95°F). The heat came early this year, starting in late June—and it’s intense. Maybe the planet really is getting warmer.
Today, I’m reviewing a new clothing item you can buy at a Japanese convenience store—shorts from FamilyMart (Famima).
I’ve previously featured their T-shirts on this blog, and I wear them almost daily. In fact, they’ve become my go-to uniform for life in Tokyo.
Now, FamilyMart has released summer shorts for 2024. But can they help beat the Tokyo heat? I picked up a pair to find out.
What Are the FamilyMart Shorts Like? (Specs & Price)
You’ll find these shorts sold in compact packaging near the clothing or miscellaneous goods section of the store. Very easy to grab and go.
Here are the product details:
Price: ¥1,817 (tax included: ¥1,998)
Product Name: Shorts – Black
Size: L
Material: 65% Nylon, 25% Cotton, 10% Polyurethane
Simple Design, Functional Fabric
As expected from a convenience store item, the design is minimal and straightforward. That’s not a bad thing—these are practical, no-frills shorts.
The fabric is lightweight and breathable, thanks to its nylon blend. It’s also stretchable, making it very comfortable for lounging or quick errands. Plus, it’s machine-washable, which is a must during hot Tokyo summers.
That said, the fit is oversized—a common trend among Japanese youth. Both the width and length are on the larger side.
Bottom length: 52 cm
Waist: 84–94 cm
Wearing Them: Comfort vs. Fit
As mentioned above, the sizing is a bit tricky. I usually wear an XL T-shirt from FamilyMart, so I opted for L-size shorts, thinking they’d fit just right.
But these were still quite big. Oversized is clearly intentional here, but if you prefer a standard fit, I’d recommend going one size down. I probably should’ve chosen M.
Another point: the inner fabric texture. Because of the nylon material, the waistband area can feel slightly scratchy—especially if worn directly against the skin. It’s not unbearable, but you’ll notice it. If you’re sensitive, it might be uncomfortable.
Are Convenience Store Clothes Worth It?
FamilyMart’s T-shirts remain my favorite—they deliver great quality at a great price.
But when it comes to sweatpants and shorts, I’ve started to notice more compromises.
Recently, Famima has expanded its clothing lineup to include polo shirts, hats, sunglasses, and more. This is super handy if you’re traveling and need something quickly. But overall, quality seems to match the price point—which is fair, but not amazing.
Final Verdict: FamilyMart Shorts Are Decent for Light Use — But the T-Shirts Are Better
In conclusion, I think these shorts are perfect for casual, short-term use—like relaxing at home or packing light for a trip. The price is reasonable, and the functionality is acceptable.
However, if you’re looking for a stylish or long-lasting pair of shorts, these might not be the best pick. The fabric feel and sizing are not for everyone.
