The North Face outdoor apparel and equipment

The North Face is a premier American outdoor recreation product company. Founded in 1966 by Douglas Tompkins and his wife Susie Tompkins, it originally started as a small retail store specializing in climbing and backpacking equipment. Over the decades, it evolved into a global symbol for both high-performance mountaineering gear and urban streetwear, known for its innovative technology and iconic logo inspired by the Half Dome in Yosemite National Park.

Today, the brand is owned by VF Corporation, a massive American apparel and footwear conglomerate. While the brand remains headquartered in the United States, its manufacturing is globalized to meet international demand. Production primarily takes place in countries across Asia, including Vietnam, China, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, as well as locations in Central America. The company has made significant strides in shifting toward sustainable materials, such as recycled polyester and responsibly sourced down.