A Deep Dive into 10 Must-Buy Items from WORKMAN in Japan! Interview with the PR Team at "#WORKMAN Girl Ikebukuro Sunshine City Alpa Store"

Originating in Japan, "WORKMAN" has now gained worldwide attention as a "high-spec brand" known for its high-performance products at affordable prices. In this article, we conducted an in-depth interview with Ms. Kosuzume from WORKMAN's PR team at the largest flagship store in the Tokyo metropolitan area, "#WORKMAN Girl Ikebukuro Sunshine City Alpa Store"!

We asked about the most popular recommended items to buy this summer and the trend items you should keep an eye on. In addition, we’ll introduce practical information you’ll want to know before you shop, including the differences between "WORKMAN Plus" and "WORKMAN Colors," tax-free shopping, and whether WORKMAN ever holds sales!

*All prices include tax.

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What Makes WORKMAN So Appealing? The Reasons Behind Its Enduring Popularity!

WORKMAN started as a specialty store targeting people working at construction sites and factories, offering professional-grade workwear and gear such as work clothes, safety shoes, and gloves with outstanding durability and practicality. Later, building on the high-performance technology developed through manufacturing workwear, the company expanded into products that incorporate the latest trends. Many of their most popular items inherit the waterproof performance and durability found in their workwear and safety footwear. Because their products are highly functional, stylish, and affordable, they have gained a loyal following among a wide range of customers. As of July 2026, WORKMAN operates approximately 1,107 stores across Japan, and they have officially announced plans to open their first overseas store in Taiwan in 2029.

What Does WORKMAN Sell? What Are the Differences Between Store Types?

WORKMAN operates three different store brands, each with its own product range and concept.

1) WORKMAN: Offers highly functional workwear and safety shoes that can withstand harsh environments, as well as functional wear for outdoor activities, sports, and everyday use.

2) WORKMAN Plus: In addition to traditional professional workwear, this brand specializes in products for outdoor activities and sports. The stores feature bright displays to make them more welcoming for general customers.

3) WORKMAN GIRL / WORKMAN Colors: These new store formats do not sell workwear. Instead, they focus on "everyday wear" with a trendy touch, utilizing WORKMAN's signature functionality. These stores are mainly located in large shopping malls.

Comparison Table

Does WORKMAN have sales? Where can you buy at the lowest price?

WORKMAN does not hold limited-time discount sales, special price reductions, or distribute coupons, and there are no outlet stores. The reason is that, no matter which store or when you shop, products are always sold at "the most affordable price." Since they always offer the "lowest price," there is no need for additional discounts.

As for tax-free stores, there are currently 14 locations nationwide, including Ikebukuro, Solamachi, Yokohama Sakuragicho, and Osaka (see the full list at the end of the article).

WORKMAN's Seasonal Release Schedule

WORKMAN launches new products and colors according to the change of seasons, following the schedule below. Popular items may sell out quickly, so be sure to check in advance if you have your eye on something.

• Spring/Summer Season: Starts in February
• Autumn/Winter Season: Starts in September
• Note: New products are released every season. Some product lineups, such as rubber boots and rain boots, may be updated depending on demand and seasonal conditions. In addition, popular men's items are increasingly being released in women's versions as well.

This summer, here are 10 must-buy items you absolutely shouldn't miss!

Recommended Item 1: Aero Stretch Climbing Pants

These casual pants are a must-have for hiking. Available for both men and women, they are one of WORKMAN's best-selling long-running products. The main appeal is their stretchability, which does not restrict movement. The inseam features a diamond-shaped cut, making it easy to bend and stretch your knees, take wide steps, or ride a bicycle or motorcycle smoothly. They also feature moisture-wicking, quick-drying and UV protection. The waistband is elastic, so there is no tightness. To prevent items from falling out, only the left back pocket has a snap button. For visibility at night, reflective material is integrated with the brand logo above the right knee. In winter, a fleece-lined version is also available.

Aero Stretch Climbing Pants

• Price: ¥1,900
• Colors:
• Men: Black, Navy, Sand, Dark Green
• Women: Black, Beige, Dark Green, Light Pink, Sage Green
• Sizes:
• Men: S, M, L, LL, 3L, 4L
• Women: S, M, L
• *Kids sizes also available

Recommended Item 2: Premium Ultra Water-Repellent Soft Shell Trek Hoodie

This flagship item is designed for mountain climbing and camping. Its main appeal is its "water repellency." Even after approximately 100 washes, the water-repellent effect is maintained. Made from two-way stretch material that stretches both vertically and horizontally, it is resistant to friction and oil stains, and is also difficult to scratch. There are a total of four large pockets on the front, providing excellent storage capacity. The hood features a built-in brim to provide extra protection in heavy rain. It also features a hood adjuster to enhance wind protection when the hood is worn. Thoughtful details include a whistle built into the front zipper pull and a packable design that allows the jacket to be stored in the inner pocket at the left waist. This item is perfect for all seasons and can be used for light hiking, city walks, and a variety of other situations.

Premium Ultra Water-Repellent Soft Shell Trek Hoodie

• Price: ¥2,900
• Colors: Coal Black, Aurora Blue, Honey Gold, Crazy Brown
• Sizes: S, M, L, LL, 3L

Recommended Item 3: Hyogeki Cooling® (-10°C) Short-Sleeve T-Shirt

This short-sleeve T-shirt has been a bestseller since its launch, with cumulative sales exceeding 2 million units. In addition to its moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric, it also features evaporative cooling technology that creates a cooling sensation when the fabric becomes damp with sweat, helping to lower your perceived temperature during extreme heat. It also features antibacterial and deodorising treatment to help reduce odours and bacteria. The crew neck design creates a clean, simple look, and reflective materials are attached to the center back and shoulder areas for visibility at night. Although it is only available in men's sizes, the S and M sizes may also fit women and children. Long sleeve versions are also available in addition to short sleeves.

ICE ASSAULT Cooling (R) -10°C Short Sleeve T-Shirt

• Price: ¥580
• Colors: White, Black, Heather Gray, Heather Red, Heather Amber, Heather Sakura, Heather Green
• Sizes: S, M, L, LL, 3L, 5L

Recommended Item 4: Stay Clean Stain-Resistant White T-Shirt

This product is perfect for those who worry that "white T-shirts show stains easily." It uses a unique Stay Clean processing, so even stains like ketchup or sauce can be reduced by simply rinsing with water on the spot.

Stay Clean Stain-Resistant White T-Shirt

• Price: ¥980 
• Color: White
• Sizes: M, L, LL

Recommended Item 5: Ladies' SOLOTEX(R) Sceneless T-Shirt

This women’s-exclusive series features an elegant sheen and a soft, refined neckline. The fabric is equipped with “moisture-wicking and quick-drying” properties, making it easy to care for and fast-drying. It is resistant to losing its shape and wrinkling, so ironing is unnecessary. The design is also carefully considered, with a slightly tapered front that beautifully and smartly accentuates your body lines just by wearing it. With options like shorter sleeves, wider collars, and sleeveless styles, as well as long sleeves available depending on the season, it’s a versatile piece. It also features UV protection.

Women’s SOLOTEX(R) Sceneless T-Shirt

• Price: ¥980
• Colors: Off White, Heather Gray, Black, Dark Green, Brown
• Sizes: M, L, LL

Recommended Item 6: Women’s JoBlack Pants

This highly popular item is perfect for both work and private occasions. Its biggest feature is that it hardly fades even after washing. Since the color is added before the yarn is made, the original black lasts longer. Made with stretch fabric for ease of movement, it also has a D-ring for a carabiner on the right side of the waist, so you can attach a keychain or similar items. There are three types available: “Semi Flare” (WORKMAN Girl & WORKMAN Colors exclusive), “Skinny Type,” and “Cargo Type,” all of which come with plenty of storage pockets.

Women’s Jo Black Pants

• Price: ¥1,900 each
• Color: Black
• Sizes: S, M, L, LL

Recommended Item 7: Waterproof Shoes High Bounce Rain

These much-talked-about shoes are incredibly lightweight and made from soft materials. The shoes are waterproof up to 5 cm from the sole, and the upper part is water-repellent, making it hard for water to seep in even in puddles. Additionally, the sole is designed to be slip-resistant even on wet floors, making them ideal for people working in restaurant kitchens and similar environments. The high-rebound sole, similar to that of running shoes, combines ease of walking with safety.

Waterproof Shoes High Bounce Rain

• Price: ¥2,900 
• Colors: Black, Aqua Blue
• Sizes: 24.5cm–28cm (in 5mm increments, except 27.5cm)

Recommended Item 8: Shock Absorbing Grip Insole

Insoles that can simply be placed inside your existing shoes to transform comfort. The surface of the insole features a non-slip fabric with antibacterial and deodorising treatment. The underside features a uniquely developed shock-absorbing material. While typical insoles tend to concentrate pressure on the heel, this item evenly distributes pressure across the entire sole of the foot. This helps to alleviate localized stress on the heel and reduces foot fatigue in the evening.

Shock Absorption Grip Insole

• Price: ¥880 
• Sizes: M, L, LL

Recommended Item 9: Waterproof Casual Bag

This lightweight backpack is perfect for everyday outings, commuting, or school on rainy days. The exterior uses a highly water-repellent fabric that repels rain and prevents the contents from getting wet. Additionally, it comes with a removable PC case that can be secured with hook-and-loop tape, allowing you to customize it according to your needs. The abundance of storage pockets is also a great feature, making it easy to organize your belongings.

Waterproof Casual Bag

• Price: ¥2,900 
• Colors: Black, Navy, Burgundy, Beige

Recommended Item 10: X-Shelter® Ultra Breathable Moisture-Releasing Rain Jacket

This is a high-performance rain jacket boasting WORKMAN’s unique “ultra breathability × moisture absorption and release” technology.

The "X-Shelter" technology refers to a high-performance material uniquely developed to release heat and moisture from inside the garment as efficiently as possible, quickly eliminating uncomfortable stuffiness. The attention to detail in the hood is also outstanding. With a brim, it not only prevents wind and rain from entering, but also features a hood dial at the back of the head, allowing you to adjust the fit of the hood according to your head size or the weather. The front zipper pull also doubles as an emergency whistle, which can be useful in emergencies.

X-Shelter® Ultra Breathable Moisture-Releasing Rain Jacket

• Price: ¥5,800 
• Colors: Trek Black, Trek Green, Ocean Orange, Ocean White
• Sizes: S, M, L, LL, 3L

WORKMAN’s Highly Functional and Innovative Items

Here are three innovative items that have been making headlines.

Innovative Item 1: Change Form Backpack

This multi-purpose bag can change its shape according to the amount of luggage you need to carry or the situation in which you use it. Normally, it functions as a compact shoulder bag, but when your belongings increase after shopping, you can simply open the zipper at the bottom to transform it into a large-capacity backpack. In both cases, the simple and smart design makes it perfect for formal styles such as suits, or as a sub-bag when traveling. It also features a water-repellent finish.

Change Form Backpack

• Price: ¥2,900 
• Colors: Black, Gray, Beige

Innovative Item 2: Recovery Wear "Mediheal"

This recovery wear, classified in Japan as a general medical device, is attracting a lot of attention. It is made by blending a unique, high-purity mineral into the fibers, which radiates far-infrared rays emitted from the body to promote blood circulation. In just four months from January to April 2026, the series achieved a cumulative sales total of 5.22 million units, making it a phenomenal hit product.

Wearing it creates a comfortable feeling as if you are soaking in a hot bath, providing an environment that makes it easier to recover from fatigue. It is designed to help promote blood circulation, relieve muscle stiffness and tension, and reduce muscle fatigue.

Recovery Wear "Mediheal"

• Price: Short-sleeve top / Half pants: ¥1,290 each

Innovative Item 3: Fan-Equipped Wear / Cooling Device Wear / Wind Core Entry Set (Wear, Fan, and Battery Set)

In recent years, heatstroke prevention wear has been attracting a lot of attention from international tourists. "Fan-compatible wear" features fans built into the clothing that draw in outside air, allowing cool air to circulate around your neck, under your chin, and across your back, quickly releasing body heat and moisture. Users love the refreshing feeling of cool air flowing through the garment. This year, the cooling plate has been upgraded from silver to black, improving thermal conductivity in the "Wind Core Ice × Heater Peltier Vest Pro 3." The surface temperature can now be cooled from about -3°C to about -5°C. For first-time users, the "Wind Core Entry Set (Wear, Fan, and Battery Set)" is recommended.

Zero Stage Fan Vest

• Price: ¥3,900 
• Colors:
• WORKMAN / WORKMAN Plus: Ice Black, Ice Navy, Ice Gray
• WORKMAN GIRL, Workman Colors: Ice Black, Sand Beige, Purple
• Sizes: S–4L

Wind Core Entry Set (Wear, Fan, and Battery Set)

• Price: ¥9,800 
• Colors: Navy, Brown, Greige
• Sizes: M, L, LL, 3L

Wind Core Ice × Heater Peltier Vest Pro 3

• Price: ¥19,800 
• Colors: Black, White *Limited to WORKMAN GIRL and Workman Colors
• Size: Free size (SS–5L)

Featured Stores: WORKMAN, WORKMAN Plus, Workman Colors

With over 1,000 stores across Japan, WORKMAN also operates 14 tax-free stores nationwide (as of June 2026) specifically for inbound foreign tourists. These tax-free stores are often located near major train stations or inside large shopping malls, making them easy to visit during your trip.

【Tax-Free Stores Nationwide (14 Locations)】

Hokkaido & Tohoku Area

• Ario Sapporo Store (#WORKMAN Girl)
• AEON Mall Natori Store (Workman Colors)

Kanto Area

• Tokyo Solamachi Store (Tokyo・Workman Colors)
• Alcakit Kinshicho Store (Tokyo・#WORKMAN Girl)
• EXITMELSA Ginza Store (Tokyo・Workman Colors)
• Ikebukuro Sunshine City Alpa Store (Tokyo・#WORKMAN Girl)
• TOKYU Department Store Kichijoji Store (Tokyo・#WORKMAN Girl)
• Colette Mare Sakuragicho Store (Kanagawa・Workman Colors)

Kansai Area

• AEON Mall KYOTO Store (Kyoto・#WORKMAN Girl)
• Namba CITY Store (Osaka・#WORKMAN Girl)
• Tennoji Mio Store (Osaka・#WORKMAN Girl)
• AEON Mall Shijonawate Store (Osaka・Workman Colors)

Kyushu & Okinawa Area

• AEON Mall Fukuoka Store (Fukuoka・Workman Colors)
• AEON Mall Okinawa Rycom Store (Okinawa・#WORKMAN Girl)