ORIGINAL SINCE 1908
A lot has changed since Ole F. Bergans invented the backpack back in 1908. But the weather, the cold and the desire to feel comfortable outdoors remain the same.
For almost 120 years, we’ve been making products for people who love the outdoors. That experience is the foundation of the products we make today and the quality we’re known for.
Good weather protection starts with the right materials and thoughtful construction. Our shell garments feature the latest hydrophilic membrane technology, giving you top-level weather protection combined with efficient moisture transport, functional details and a fit designed for freedom of movement and layering.
Warmth isn't just about how much down is in a jacket. The construction of the garment, the quality of the down and how the jacket works with the layers underneath or the backpack you're carrying are just as important. After decades of testing and developing down products, including in polar regions, we know how to create technical down jackets that can handle the lowest temperatures.
The down we use is always certified according to the Responsible Down Standard.
To experienced outdoor enthusiasts, wearing wool next to the skin is almost a given. Wool insulates, helps regulate temperature and transports moisture away from the skin. That's why we use wool in everything from base layers for high-intensity activities to warm midlayers for outdoor adventures and everyday use.
Our wool is always itch-free and certified according to the Responsible Wool Standard, which includes requirements for animal welfare and traceability.
A shell jacket is designed to protect against both wind and precipitation, while the membrane transports moisture out through the material. This provides better comfort during activity. A rain jacket is primarily designed to keep the rain out.
No, a shell jacket provides little insulation on its own. Its main purpose is to provide a protective outer layer against wind and weather. You regulate how warmly you dress with the layers underneath, for example wool next to the skin and an insulating midlayer when it’s cold.
How well a down jacket insulates depends on a combination of factors, including the amount of down, the down blend, fill power (cuin) and construction. A high fill power means the down can trap a lot of air relative to its weight, while the amount of down and how it is distributed throughout the jacket also play an important role.
Wool transports and absorbs moisture, helps regulate body temperature and provides insulation even when the material is damp. This makes wool well suited as a base layer when both activity levels and temperatures vary.
No more often than necessary. Wool can often be aired instead of washed, while a down jacket that smells of campfire, for example, can also benefit from a good airing. If it’s dirty, it should be washed. See how to do it here.
Shell garments, on the other hand, should be washed and maintained regularly, as dirt and grime can reduce their performance over time. Always follow the care instructions on the garment.
