The brand that revolutionized responsible outdoor living
Patagonia is not just an outdoor clothing brand. It's a movement, a philosophy, a commitment to the planet. Since 1973, Patagonia has proven that it's possible to create exceptionally high-quality products while respecting the environment and advocating for its protection.
The origins: 1957-1973
It all began in 1957, when Yvon Chouinard, a young and passionate climber from California, started making climbing pitons in his garage.
Dissatisfied with the available equipment, he forged his own reusable pitons from hardened steel. His creations quickly became popular with the climbing community.
In 1965, he founded Chouinard Equipment with Tom Frost. The company became the leader in climbing equipment in the United States.
But in 1970, Yvon Chouinard realized that his steel pitons were damaging the rock faces. True to his values, he decided to stop their production and develop less destructive aluminum cams.
This decision, although financially risky, marks the beginning of Patagonia's ecological commitment.
The birth of Patagonia: 1973
In 1973, Yvon Chouinard launched Patagonia, a brand of technical clothing for mountaineering and the outdoors.
The name "Patagonia" evokes the wild and unspoiled landscapes of the region located in the far south of South America, between Argentina and Chile.
The first products: fleece jackets, technical pants and clothing designed to withstand extreme conditions.
From the outset, Patagonia has distinguished itself through its exceptional quality and durability.
The ecological commitment: 1985-1996
In 1985, Patagonia pledged to donate 1% of its revenue to environmental organizations. This marked the birth of the "1% for the Planet" movement.
In 1991, Patagonia conducted an environmental impact study on its products. The results were alarming: conventional cotton farming is extremely polluting.
In 1996, Patagonia made a radical decision: to switch to 100% organic cotton for all its cotton products. This was a first in the textile industry.
Sustainable innovation: 1993-2005
In 1993, Patagonia launched the first fleece made from recycled plastic bottles: the Synchilla PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled).
This innovation is revolutionizing the outdoor industry and proving that it is possible to create high-quality technical products from recycled materials.
In 2005, Patagonia launched the "Common Threads Initiative" program, which encourages customers to:
- Reduce their consumption
- Repairing their clothes rather than buying new ones
- Reuse and recycle
Worn Wear: 2013
In 2013, Patagonia launched "Worn Wear", a revolutionary program:
- Free or discounted repairs of Patagonia clothing
- Resale of certified pre-owned Patagonia clothing
- Mobile repair tours around the world
- Online repair guides
The message is clear: "The most sustainable garment is the one you already own."
Activism: “Don’t Buy This Jacket” (2011)
In 2011, Patagonia published a shocking advertisement in the New York Times on Black Friday:
"DON'T BUY THIS JACKET"
The message: Think before you buy. Only buy what you truly need. Repair rather than replace.
This anti-consumerist campaign is going around the world and reinforcing Patagonia's image as an engaged and authentic brand.
100% for the planet: 2022
In September 2022, Yvon Chouinard, then 83 years old, made a historic decision:
He is giving all of Patagonia (valued at $3 billion) to environmental protection organizations.
Now, 100% of Patagonia's profits (approximately $100 million per year) are donated to the fight against climate change.
"The Earth is now our sole shareholder."
Iconic products
Synchilla Snap-T Fleece
• The iconic fleece since 1985
• Timeless retro design
• Made from recycled bottles
• Iconic vibrant colors
Retro-X Fleece
• Ultra-warm thick fleece
• Sherpa lining
• 90s vintage style
Down Sweater
• Lightweight and compressible down jacket
• 800 fill power down
• Versatile and durable
Torrentshell Jacket
• Technical waterproof jacket
• Maximum protection
• Breathable and lightweight
Baggies Shorts
• Iconic swim shorts
• Recycled fabric
• Retro cut
Patagonia's commitments
- 1% for the Planet (since 1985)
- 100% organic cotton (since 1996)
- Recycled and recyclable materials
- Fair Trade Certified (fair wages)
- Total transparency in the supply chain
- Free lifetime repairs
- Worn Wear program (resale and repair)
- Environmental and political activism
- 100% of profits for the planet (since 2022)
Why does Patagonia remain a benchmark?
- Exceptional quality and legendary durability
- Genuine and pioneering ecological commitment
- Constant innovation (recycled materials, sustainable techniques)
- Transparency and honesty
- Lifetime repair (Worn Wear)
- Strong and consistent values
- Timeless products that transcend decades
The vintage Patagonia
Vintage Patagonia pieces from the 80s and 90s are extremely sought after:
- Superior build quality compared to recent models
- Iconic retro designs
- Iconic bright colors
- Made in the USA (older models)
- Collector's value
Vintage price: €50-300 depending on model and condition
At Fripes Sélect
We offer a selection of authentic vintage Patagonia pieces, carefully chosen for their quality and condition. Synchilla fleece, Retro-X, Down Sweater... Discover our collection.
Buying vintage Patagonia means extending the life of a garment of exceptional quality while adopting an ecological approach.
At Fripes Sélect, elegance is what we respect!