Skip to main content

2023 Uniqlo - Quality Decline

Uniqlo Quality Decline: A 2023 Shopping Haul Retrospective

The biggest takeaway from my 2023 Uniqlo purchases is simple: most of the items barely lasted a few months. While Uniqlo was once known for delivering solid quality at affordable prices, that value proposition no longer feels reliable.

Out of everything I purchased, only the green U Crew T-shirt remains wearable today—and even that has noticeably faded. The most disappointing items were the Supima Cotton T-shirts, which shrank significantly and developed holes within weeks of regular wear.

Before 2020, Uniqlo consistently delivered durable basics at reasonable prices. Today, the prices remain affordable, but the quality no longer matches what the brand was known for.

What Failed (and How Quickly)

I purchased these items in 2023 expecting them to function as long-term wardrobe staples. Instead, the majority deteriorated far sooner than expected.

  • Supima Cotton T-Shirts: Shrunk significantly and developed holes within a few weeks of wear. These were the biggest letdown, given their positioning as a premium option.

  • Airism T-Shirts: Both shirts had to be discarded within months. One shrank noticeably, while the other developed holes.

  • U Crew T-Shirt: The only item still usable, though the green color has faded over time.

  • Sweaters: While inexpensive, longevity remains to be seen and expectations are low given the performance of the other items.

The Shopping Haul (Context)

I made these purchases during a trip to Korea, where Uniqlo prices are roughly 40% cheaper than in the U.S., and likely even lower in Japan.

Shopping Details:

  • Total Spent: 197,700 KRW (≈ $150 USD)

  • Estimated U.S. Cost: ≈ $250 USD

  • Total Items: 11

Item Breakdown:

  • Supima Cotton T-Shirts (XL): 6 (4 black, 2 white)

  • Airism T-Shirts (XL): 2 (red, green)

  • U Crew T-Shirt (XL): 1 (green)

  • Sweaters (XL): 2 (gray, green)

At the time, the sweaters felt like an exceptional deal at 12,900 KRW (about $9.62 USD), which made the overall haul feel like a win—initially.

Wardrobe Perspective

My core wardrobe currently consists of over 54 items, and I regularly reassess staples to improve quality and longevity. Pieces I’m actively looking to upgrade include:

  • A well-made MA-1 bomber jacket

  • A pair of selvedge jeans

This experience reinforced the importance of prioritizing durability over price, even when the upfront cost feels appealing.

Final Takeaway

Uniqlo can still offer value, but it’s no longer safe to assume consistent quality across all product lines. For basics meant to withstand frequent wear and washing, Uniqlo’s offerings—particularly Supima and Airism—fell short.

Going forward, I’ll be far more selective and willing to pay more upfront for pieces that actually last.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Sony MDR-ZX100 vs ZX-110 vs ZX-310 Series Headphones

Sony ZX Series Headphones Review: A Budget-Friendly Sound Choice If you’re on the hunt for budget-friendly headphones with decent quality, the Sony ZX Series is definitely worth considering. I happen to own several models from the lineup: ZX-100 ZX-110 ZX-310 Let’s dive into how they compare in terms of build quality, cost, specs, sound, and overall value. Build Quality: ZX-310 Takes the Lead The Sony ZX series headphones primarily feature a durable plastic construction. My ZX-100 has lasted over 2½ years, enduring countless tosses into my backpack and car without any issues. However, the lower-end ZX-100 and ZX-110 models have a significant downside: poor-quality earpads. Over time, these earpads disintegrate, leaving vinyl flakes that stick to your hair and ears. The ZX-310, on the other hand, comes with upgraded earpads that don’t suffer from this problem, making them a clear winner in the build department. Cost Comparison: ZX-100/110 Wins for Affordability While the ZX-310 model co...

Casio G-Shock 5600 vs 6900 vs 9000

G-Shock Preferences and Favorites After trying out several G-Shock models, I've developed a better sense of the specific features and design elements I appreciate most. While features are always a plus, my main priority is size . Here's how some of the models I've tried stack up. Size Preference: 5600 Series For overall size, the 5600 series stands out as a favorite due to its compact, comfortable form. It’s slim, lightweight, and fits well on my wrist without being too bulky. Although the 6900 series provides the benefit of a well-placed front illumination button, the 5600 remains the ideal size for everyday wear. Best Compromise: 9000 Mudman Series If I had to choose a balanced option between size, comfort, and functionality, the G9000 Mudman series would be it. The buttons are slightly tough to press, but the layout and form factor resonate with what I prefer in a G-Shock. Despite having different module versions (GLX, G, and DW), I find that these models offer the r...

Casio MTD 1010 the $30 Submariner Homage

Casio MTD-1010: The Best Budget Submariner Homage If you’re on the hunt for an affordable watch that channels the classic diver aesthetic of the Submariner, look no further than the Casio MTD-1010 . Priced at around $30 on eBay , this model offers incredible value for anyone who loves a good deal. Affordable Elegance The MTD-1010 strikes a balance between style and practicality. While it features a quartz movement , it captures the essence of the iconic Submariner without being a direct replica or knockoff. This watch embodies the classic diver look with its bold dial, rotating bezel, and luminous hands, making it a fantastic choice for both everyday wear and special occasions. Function Over Frills What sets the MTD-1010 apart is its straightforward functionality. Casio focuses on delivering a reliable timepiece that doesn't get bogged down by unnecessary high-end features. This approach ensures that the watch is both accessible and functional, making it ideal for those who appreci...