What started as a small retail store in San Francisco catering to local mountaineers and climbers in the '60s is now considered one of the most well-known and globally-recognized outdoor brands. We're excited to announce that The North Face is the latest addition to the FEATURE brand roster. Keep reading to learn more about the brand's rich history, evolution, impact on the fashion industry, and commitment to social responsibility.

The Founding of The North Face

The North Face was founded in 1966 by Doug Tompkins, an outdoorsman, and environmentalist known for his conservation efforts. Born in Ohio and raised in Millbrook, New York, Tompkins was always connected to the outdoors. So much so, he dropped out of high school at 17 to climb and ski across the West Coast, eventually ending up in San Francisco. 

Tompkins was 23 years old when he established The North Face, and its initial goal was to provide high-quality outdoor equipment and apparel to local mountaineers and other outdoor enthusiasts. Working alongside his wife, Susie Tompkins Buell, the duo aimed to create durable and reliable outdoor products that could withstand harsh weather conditions and outdoor activities. Over the years, The North Face has expanded its offerings beyond equipment by introducing an extensive array of outerwear apparel, footwear, and other accessories. The North Face remains committed to premium high-quality, and reliable outdoor products.

The Evolution of The North Face

The North Face began to evolve tremendously during the '70s and '80s when it started introducing products such as backpacks, camping equipment, and other outdoor apparel. The company gained a national following and reputation for its innovative designs and technical expertise. As soon as the 2000s hit, the brand was acquired by a global apparel and footwear conglomerate intending to expand into even more areas. The brand began introducing more lifestyle and athleisure wear in addition to its traditional outdoor gear, which resulted in a broader audience, including casual outdoor enthusiasts and beyond. 

In the 2010s, The North Face began focusing on its environmental sustainability responsibilities. They started launching programs like 'Clothes the Loop,' encouraging the public to recycle old clothing. Another unique program is 'Renewed,' which sells refurbished and repaired The North Face products. To this day, The North Face acknowledges sustainability by reducing its environmental footprint and improving sustainability within supply chains. With that, The North Face has evolved from a small mountaineering brand to a full-fledged national brand with a strong focus on premium lifestyle and outdoor apparel and equipment that focuses on sustainability.

"NEVER STOP EXPLORING."

The North Face Logo

Otherwise known as the 'Half Dome' logo, The North Face's icon symbol is an iconic image that has become synonymous with the identity of the outdoor brand. The logo spotlights a stylized image of Half Dome, a granite rock formation in Yosemite National Park, California. The initial symbol of the company features a simple sketch of Half Dome in black and white. The logo has remained relatively the same over the years, with the lines and color schemes altering slightly but remaining as The North Face's most iconic and enduring design.

The North Face Collaborations

With its strong footprint in the fashion industry in mind, The North Face has created several iconic collaborations with other brands over the years. These include Supreme x The North Face, Gucci x The North Face, Comme des Garçons x The North Face, Junya Watanabe x The North Face, and Brain Dead x The North Face. These collaborations spotlight The North Face brand's versatility and ability to combine the aesthetic of outdoor functionality with luxury fashion. 

The North Face's Impact on Outdoor Sports

Regarding outdoor sports, The North Face has made an undeniable impact. Their influence can be seen throughout the offerings and how they have shaped athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. They've impacted outdoor sports in several ways, including their innovation with outdoor gear. The brand has pioneered innovative outdoor gear such as apparel, footwear, and equipment. They've introduced groundbreaking technologies and designs, including the 'Geodesic Dome' tent, GORE-TEX water-repellent fabric, and ThermoBall insulation. These technologies have revolutionized the outdoor industry while improving the performance and comfort of these items. Along with introducing a wide range of innovative technologies,  The North Face has developed specialized apparel such as the Retro Nuptse Jacket, Sierra Long Down Parka, Himalayan Down Jacket, and more.

The North Face has expanded its offerings for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, and actively sponsors athletes to encourage them to push the boundaries of what is possible in their respective sports. 

The North Face's Social Responsibility + Sustainability 

Sustainability and reducing environmental impact are essential to The North Face. The brand has taken various steps to demonstrate corporate social responsibility, such as including recycled and environmentally-friendly materials in its products, working towards sustainable sourcing and manufacturing practices, and taking on initiatives such as reducing waste and promoting recycling.

The brand recognizes the importance of protecting the outdoor spaces where outdoor spaces take place while also involving themselves in environmental advocacy efforts such as supporting causes such as climate change, conservation, and preservation of natural resources. The North Face is proactive in using sustainable materials in their outdoor gear, with materials such as recycled nylon and polyester, which aims to assist in reducing their environmental footprint. Additional initiatives The North Face has implemented include sustainable packaging and partnerships. 

Community engagement is also a priority for the brand. They often partner with nonprofits and community organizations to help support local communities, promote diversity and inclusion, and provide access to outdoor experiences to underserved populations. 

The North Face Today

Since the '60s, The North Face has become a globally recognized brand best known for its outdoor apparel, footwear, and additional gear. The brand is at the forefront of the outdoor industry, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and beyond. They remain committed to social responsibility and sustainable practices while continuing to expand their outdoor apparel, footwear, and gear line. The North Face maintains its stake as one of the industry's most prominent and influential brands. The North Face is best known for its premium outdoor-inspired apparel, which includes its signature leggings, fleece jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, t-shirts, tank tops, pullover hoodies, and more. When it comes to gear and accessories, this often features backpacks, beanies, tents, totes, sleeping bags, snowboards, and anything else needed for someone’s next outdoor adventure.

Explore our debut The North Face delivery by clicking here. Read our latest lookbook for a closer look at this premium collection.