Unveiling the Legendary History of The North Face: A Pioneering Brand Redefining Adventure and Style

In the vibrant world of outdoor and streetwear fashion, no brand captures the essence of exploration and innovation quite like The North Face. Founded in 1966 by passionate hikers Douglas Tompkins and Susie Tompkins, the brand has etched its name in the annals of outdoor history with a commitment to quality, performance, and pushing boundaries.

Originating as a small mountaineering retail store in San Francisco, The North Face quickly evolved into a staple among outdoor enthusiasts for its trailblazing innovations and unwavering dedication to quality gear. From introducing the iconic geodesic dome tent to pioneering the use of Gore-Tex fabric, The North Face carved a niche as a brand that personifies adventure and reliability.

The North Face's journey traversed beyond traditional outdoor pursuits to embrace the dynamic realm of snowboarding. In the 1980s, the brand embraced the rise of snowboarding, collaborating with professionals and enthusiasts to develop cutting-edge gear tailored to the demands of the sport. The North Face's foray into snowboarding not only reinforced its commitment to performance excellence but also cemented its presence in the snowboarding community, standing as a beacon of creativity and durability. The North Face snowboard team has expanded to represent some of the most influential snowboarders in the world including Jess Kimura, Jake Blauvelt, Xavier De Le Rue, Blake Paul and New Zealand's Roland Morley-Brown.

Widely hailed as an influential force in streetwear culture, The North Face's imprint on urban fashion is unmistakable. With its timeless logo, featuring a bold half-dome design, the brand seamlessly merged functionality with style, transforming outdoor gear into emblems of urban cool. Collaborations with fashion designers and streetwear icons have further elevated The North Face's status, propelling it to the forefront of contemporary fashion and establishing a legacy that transcends trends. Built around iconic pieces like the instantly recognizable Nuptse down jacket, The North Face has cemented it's place in fashion culture.

As The North Face continues to shape the landscape of adventure and style, its rich history stands as a testament to the enduring allure of exploration and innovation. So, whether you're braving the wilderness, hitting the slopes, or strolling the city streets, The North Face remains a beacon of inspiration for those who dare to seek adventure and style in equal measure. Embrace the legacy. Embrace The North Face.

Shop The North Face in New Zealand online and in Boardertown stores nationwide.

All photos: Roland Morley-Brown by Jared Spieker