Icebreaker Oasis Leggings

Brand History and Ethos

Icebreaker is a pioneer in the outdoor apparel industry, founded in New Zealand in 1995 by Jeremy Moon. The brand was established with the revolutionary idea of using natural merino wool fibers instead of synthetic materials to create high-performance outdoor clothing. This focus on natural sustainability and the unique properties of New Zealand merino sheep—which endure extreme temperature fluctuations—allowed Icebreaker to create breathable, odor-resistant, and insulating base layers like the Oasis Leggings.

Manufacturing and Sourcing

While the brand's heart and raw material source are rooted in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, the manufacturing process is global. Icebreaker utilizes high-quality textile facilities in multiple countries, primarily within China and Vietnam, to ensure technical precision in their garment construction. They maintain a transparent supply chain, emphasizing ethical treatment of both the sheep and the workers involved in the production process.

Corporate Ownership

In 2018, Icebreaker was acquired by VF Corporation, a global leader in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear, and accessories. This acquisition integrated Icebreaker into a massive portfolio alongside brands like The North Face and Timberland. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, VF Corporation provides the global infrastructure to distribute Icebreaker’s natural fiber products to a worldwide market while maintaining the brand's original New Zealand identity and commitment to natural performance.