Patagonia

Patagonia – activism and hard-wearing outdoor clothing

Patagonia was founded by climber Yvon Chouinard in Ventura, California in 1973, with roots stretching back to the climbing equipment he forged himself in the 1950s and 60s. Today Patagonia is one of the world's most prominent outdoor brands, known for robust technical clothing for climbing, skiing, fly fishing, surfing and mountain hiking.

The environment as a business idea

Patagonia's mission is stated as "We're in business to save our home planet". Since 1985 the company has given 1% of its turnover to environmental causes through 1% for the Planet, and in 2022 the Chouinard family transferred ownership to a foundation and a non-profit organisation whose profits are used for climate and nature conservation.

Hard-wearing garments and Worn Wear

The materials are often recycled nylon, organic cotton, regenerative cotton and recycled down. Through the Worn Wear programme, Patagonia offers repair and resale of used garments, so that every jacket, fleece or pair of trousers can be used for as long as possible. The products are aimed at those who want long-lasting garments of high technical quality and who care about environmental responsibility.