2012 News Stories
Back to TopGoose Down Update
February 20, 2012
Some news stories have been published recently in the United Kingdom regarding The North Face and the goose down used in some of our products. The story raised questions about The North Face using down from geese that have been force-fed for the production foie gras. The North Face does not condone the practice of force-feeding geese. This is an issue that is important to us. While there is not a short-term solution, please read where we are to date.
http://www.neverstopexploring.com/blog/2012/02/goose-down-update.html
2011
Back to TopThe North Face Endurance Challenge Adds Road Race to Trail Running Series for 2011
March 10, 2011
As The North Face Endurance Challenge marks its 5th anniversary, we’re excited to feature a new twist for 2011 – an inaugural road event in Kansas City, MO on August 27-28, 2011! Registration is now open for the exciting Kansas City run, which will start and finish in the beautiful 13.81-acre Frank A. Theis Park in downtown Kansas City. Following a two-day format similar to other Endurance Challenge races, the event will feature a Marathon, Marathon Relay and 50K on Saturday, and a 5K, 10K and Half Marathon on Sunday along Brush Creek River and just a few blocks from The North Face store in Country Club Plaza. We also invite parents to bring their kids for the daily 1K Karno Kids Races, led by internationally-recognized ultrarunner and TNF athlete, Dean Karnazes.
The Kansas City road event will follow regional trail races in Bear Mountain, NY (May 7-8, 2011) and Washington, DC (June 4-5, 2011). The remaining regional races will take place in Madison, WI (September 17-18, 2011) and Atlanta, GA (October 15-16, 2011), before culminating with the championship in San Francisco, CA (December 3-4, 2011), which has gained an elite international field. To find out how to register for this year’s Endurance Challenge events, please visit http://www.thenorthface.com/endurancechallenge.
The North Face Helps Ultramarathon Runner Dean Karnazes Battle Childhood Obesity As He Runs Across America
Feb 26, 2011
Yesterday, ultramarathon runner and The North Face athlete Dean Karnazes began running across the U.S. as part of a 12-week event benefiting Action For Healthy Kids. In partnership with LIVE! with Regis & Kelly, Dean will be featured on the program throughout his journey, as he makes his way across the country and encourages youth to live a healthy active lifestyle. Action For Healthy Kids is the nation’s leading nonprofit and largest volunteer network fighting childhood obesity by helping schools become healthier places. To show its support, The North Face is donating $30,000 to the nonprofit organization, a collaboration of more than 70 organizations, corporations and government agencies that sustains various grassroots efforts led by 20,000+ volunteers nationwide.
We are excited to support Dean’s latest initiative as part of our dedication to connecting young people to the outdoors, which includes programs such as the Endurance Challenge series, the outdoor activity portal PlanetExplore.com and the annual $250,000 Explore Fund. Dean, who kicked off his Run Across America in Los Angeles, will make the trek wearing The North Face footwear and apparel. He will be featured on LIVE! with Regis & Kelly daily, challenging people to get fit over the next 70 days, culminating in a live appearance on the show in New York in May.
For more information on Dean’s schedule and how to run with him in five designated locations across the country, please visit www.dadt.com/live/special/runacrossamerica/index.html or www.actionforhealthykids.org for regular updates on Dean’s fund raising efforts.
2010
Back to TopThe North Face Single-Track Awarded "Gear of the Year" by Outside
May 4, 2010
The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced The North Face Single-Track running shoe was awarded “Gear of the Year” by Outside magazine. The Single-Track, new for 2010, is a lightweight, everyday neutral training and racing shoe designed for runners.
Outside magazine’s Buyer’s Guide features the latest and greatest of outdoor product and gear, as the ultimate guide for outdoor enthusiasts. Outside’s running shoe testing team, made up of 25 experienced runners, put 24 of the best new trail runners through the paces on a wide variety of trail types and conditions.
“Everyone from our speedy 10K trail racers to our casual runners fell in love with the Single-Track almost from the beginning, citing its comfort, low-weight, and versatility,” said Justin Nyberg, Outside Buyer’s Guide Executive Editor. “Whether they were running around the local park, or deep in the mountains, the shoe always seemed to be the right pick.”
The Single-Track upper is crafted of an abrasion-resistant synthetic leather upper with a tight weave mesh and external tongue screen-collar to protect from unwanted debris. The C-Delta metatarsal fit system provides medial and lateral stability, while the Ortholite Northotic footbed creates supreme comfort underfoot. Built on The North Face’s Unleashed Performance platform, this neutral-lasted silhouette features a new X-Dome Cradle technology providing high-impact cushioning, stabilization, and rebound upon heel strike. X-2 dual-density cushioned EVA midsole, ESS Snake Plate to protect against stone bruising, and Tenacious Grip high-abrasion, off-road sticky rubber combine for the ultimate minimal, efficient running shoe. It is available for both men and women runners.
“The Single-Track was born out of intensive collaboration with our running athletes. When catering to the needs of these high performance athletes, it can be easy to over-build product, so we took a ‘less is more’ approach when engineering this style. By working so closely with our experienced team, we were able to develop this minimalist, high-performance running shoe all while keeping protection and durability at the forefront,” said J.P. Borod, Footwear Product Director for The North Face. “We are thrilled the Single-Track stood out during Outside’s intensive testing process. Having the Single-Track recognized by such a core group of users is truly an honor.”
The Single-Track was recently awarded “Best Debut” by Runner’s World magazine’s Spring Trail Shoe Guide (April 2010).
For more than 40 years The North Face athlete team has defined the limits of what is humanly possible, and continually works with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products. The North Face Running Team includes Dean Karnazes, Diane Van Deren, Lizzy Hawker, Kami Semick, Nikki Kimball, Sam Thompson, Seabastien Chaigneau, Michael Wardian, Tim Twietmeyer and Tsuyoshi Kaburaki.
See The North Face Single-Track in action and purchase at www.thenorthface.com Check out Outside magazine at www.outsidemag.com
The North Face Single-Track Awarded "Best Debut" by Runner's World
Runner’s World magazine names The North Face Single-Track as top pick in its debut season
SAN LEANDRO, California– March 19, 2010– The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced The North Face Single-Track running shoe was awarded “Best Debut” by Runner’s World magazine, the worldwide authority on running information. The Single-Track, new for 2010, is a lightweight, everyday neutral training and racing shoe designed for runners.
Runner’s World’s Spring Trail Shoe Guide, which appears in the April 2010 issue, features the latest and greatest of trail running shoes, as the ultimate guide for runners. The “Best Debut” honor is bestowed upon products that are new to the market and exhibit superior technology, design and performance.
Runner’s World notes the Single-Track works well on both road and trail and was found to have the softest heel of the shoes tested as well as an extremely flexible forefoot. The review recommends the Single-Track for runners who desire a general-purpose shoe that works well on both roads and trails.
The Single-Track upper is crafted of an abrasion-resistant synthetic leather upper with a tight weave mesh and external tongue scree-collar to protect from any unwanted debris. The C-Delta metatarsal fit system provides medial and lateral stability, while the Ortholite Northotic footbed creates supreme comfort underfoot. Built on The North Face’s Unleashed Performance platform, this neutral lasted silhouette features a new X-Dome Cradle technology providing high-impact cushioning, stabilization, and rebound upon heel strike. X-2 dual-density cushioned EVA midsole, ESS Snake Plate to protect against stone bruising, and Tenacious Grip high-abrasion, off-road sticky rubber combine for the ultimate minimal, efficient running shoe. The Single-Track is available for both men and women runners.
“We are proud to have worked so closely with our ultra-running athletes to create the Single-Track. With their help we were able to determine how to create the ultimate high-performance, no-nonsense minimalist shoe without sacrificing protection and durability,” said JP Borod, Footwear Product Director for The North Face. “We are thrilled the editors at Runner’s World recognized this shoe during their intensive testing process.”
For more than 40 years The North Face athlete team has defined the limits of what is humanly possible, and continually works with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
See The North Face Single-Track in action and purchase at www.thenorthface.com Check out Runner’s World magazine at www.runnersworld.com
Daniel Woods Makes First Ascent of The Game (V16)
February 16, 2010– The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced global team athlete Daniel Woods did the first ascent of a longstanding elusive boulder problem on Wednesday, February 10, 2010, in Boulder Canyon, Colorado. Calling it The Game, and grading it a whopping V16, the first of such grades for the U.S., makes it possibly the world’s hardest boulder problem.
For the past two years, Woods has been working on this boulder problem on and off between travels, which has been tried for more than a decade by some of the world’s top climbers including Dave Graham, Tony Lamiche and Paul Robinson, as well as hard-bodied Colorado locals.
“Everybody has been trying this boulder problem and no one could send it,” said fellow The North Face global team climber Cedar Wright, and witness to the first ascent. “Then, Daniel comes along and just crushes it! Watching Daniel climb is about as close as I’ve come to witnessing the defiance of gravity.”
Woods, who feels The Game merits a V16 rating because he believes it is another level compared to other climbs he has done. Before tackling the problem, Woods returned from a trip to Hueco Tanks, Texas, where he repeated Terremer (V15), considered one of the hardest boulder problems in the world. Woods felt The Game was a step above Terremer, and slapped it with a V16.
“V16 is only a number. The more important thing is the progression it meant to myself in my climbing,” said Woods. “It’s cool to feel like I have established a climb that is pushing the limits for the sport of bouldering. Time will tell how hard it The Game actually is, but for now I feel like it is a new level boulder problem.”
The Game, which starts in the far back of a cave, is a nearly horizontal roof with extremely glassy, slopey holds. It features huge arm-span moves and involves eight hard movements out of an obvious roof. On the freezing cold day, with snow and ice surrounding the shaded boulder, Woods warmed-up on the middle moves, ripping a key crimp off the roof, resulting in a powerful fall. Now that the crimp had broken, Woods reformulated the sequence, involving a bigger move to a better hold, but a harder swing out. He made the first ascent that same day.
“The holds take the same path and the climbing is more physical, so in the end it turned out to be perfect. I feel The Game became an even better climb after the hold broke,” said Woods. “This definitely was a mental and physical war for me. Now I want to find something harder.”
Three days later, Woods won the American Bouldering Series National Championships in Alexandria, Virginia.
For more than 40 years The North Face has teamed up with the world’s finest mountaineers, alpinists, climbers, skiers, snowboarders and endurance adventurers who have defined the limits of what is humanly possible. The North Face Athlete team works closely with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
For more information on The North Face climber Daniel Woods, and The North Face athlete team, check out www.thenorthface.com
Want to get involved and start climbing? Check PlanetExplore for events and climbing activities close to home. www.planetexplore.com
Interested in the grading of boulder problems? Check out Rockfax at http://www.rockfax.com/publications/bgrades.html
Xavier de Le Rue Joins The North Face Global Athlete Team
January 29, 2010– The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced snowboarder Xavier de Le Rue has joined its global athlete team. The North Face has a team of more than 60 professional global athletes from around the world which includes snowboarders, skiers, rock climbers, mountaineers and endurance runners.
De Le Rue has been on the snow since childhood. In addition to a regular filming schedule with Standard, TGR and Relentless Energy, de Le Rue is hot on the competition scene. In 2008 and 2009 he won the Freeride World Tour and in 2009 also Best Line at the Freeride World Tour. De Le Rue took first place at the Swatch O’Neill Big Mountain Pro and the SBX Fis Vice World in 2009. In 2008 he placed first at the Oxbow Back to the Powder and took second at the Swatch O’Neill Big Mountain Pro.
With only a few weeks into 2010, de Le Rue won the Standout of the Year award in the Transworld Rider Poll Awards, and was nominated for the Cold Smoke Awards, Best Line. He has already been named Big Mountain Rider of the Year by Snowboarder magazine and awarded for Best Shooting and Jury Special in the Saint Lary Freeride Film Festival. De Le Rue is a 2010 Olympic favorite for Boardercross.
Based in Verbier, Switzerland, with his wife and daughter, de Le Rue spends his non-boarding time downhill mountain biking and surfing.
For more than 40 years The North Face has teamed up with the world’s finest mountaineers, alpinists, climbers, skiers, snowboarders and endurance adventurers who have defined the limits of what is humanly possible. De Le Rue joins fellow The North Face Snowboard team members David Carrier Porcheron (DCP), Mark Carter, Lucas DeBari, Johan Oloffson, Dave Short and Eric Themel. The North Face Athlete team works closely with Research, Design and Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products. The team also integrates with Sports Marketing to develop world-class events and expeditions. For more information on The North Face athlete team, check out www.thenorthface.com.
The North Face Paramount Peak Convertible Pant Gets Extreme Makeover
The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, recently announced the first new updates in almost a decade of the classic, iconic hiking pant, The North Face Paramount Peak Convertible Pant.
Introduced in 2001 (as the Paramount Convertible), the Paramount Peak Convertible Pant was one of the first zip-away pants that convert easily to shorts, enabling outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activity regardless of changes in the weather and temperatures. Throughout the past nine years, the iconic pant received only slight tweaks and updates, sticking to its classic, outdoor look.
“It was time for the Paramount Peak Convertible Pant to have a new look,” said Neil Munro, Outdoor Product Director for The North Face. “This is an iconic, must-have piece and it now boasts style that is keeping with current trends and advancements.”
The new style features modernized lines, better pocket location, improved construction and durable, strengthened thread. The fabric is approved by bluesign®, a company that specializes in certifying high environmental, health and safety standards along the supply chain, from start to finish. Most notably, the short has been lengthened for comfort and performance. The Paramount Peak provides a UPF 30 protection, is quick drying and is abrasion resistant. Available in Men’s and Women’s styles, in multiple ankle length options, the Paramount Peak Convertible Pant is destined to become a newer icon of itself, ridding the convertible pant category of its “dorky” stigma it undeservingly shoulders.
“After a whole summer of hard use, the Paramount Convertibles showed no sign of abrasion,” said Kristin Hostetter, Gear Editor at Backpacker magazine. “I love these pants and still wear them after many years… they are decidedly the least dorky convertibles I ever rocked.”
Show us where you’ve taken your Paramount Peak Convertible Pants. Upload your pics to our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/thenorthface
Lucas DeBari Joins The North Face Athlete Team
SAN LEANDRO, California - January 15, 2010 - The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced snowboarder Lucas DeBari has joined its athlete team. The North Face has a team of more than 60 professional global athletes which includes snowboarders, skiers, rock climbers, mountaineers and ultrarunners.
“Lucas is an ideal addition to The North Face snowboarding team,” said Aaron Carpenter, Vice President of Marketing for The North Face. “His enthusiasm and creativity for exploration and passion for pushing himself to the next level shows his dedication to the progression of snowboarding.”
Raised in Glacier, Washington, in the shadow of Mount Baker, DeBari has been snowboarding since he was four years old. He has been featured in films by Peoples Creative, Transworld, Think Thank, Funner and is currently filming with Absinthe. In 2008 DeBari won the Rookie of the Year in the Transworld Rider Poll. In his second year of pro competition, DeBari won the Mount Baker Legendary Banked Slalom. Establishing himself as a progressive big mountain snowboarder, DeBari is inspired by large unique backcountry features, steep chutes and exposed ridges.
“There is so much more potential in snowboarding that I am driven to explore,” said DeBari. “My goal for the next few years is to snowboard as much as possible while pushing the limits of possibility, and I am psyched to be aligned with The North Face as I take the next steps in my career.”
For more than 40 years The North Face has teamed up with the world’s finest mountaineers, alpinists, climbers, skiers, snowboarders and endurance adventurers who have defined the limits of what is humanly possible. The North Face Athlete team works closely with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
For more information on The North Face rider Lucas DeBari, and The North Face athlete team, check out www.thenorthface.com
The North Face Animagi Jacket Wins Coveted Gear Award
The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced The North Face Animagi Jacket has been awarded the prestigious Top Ten Gear Pick by Gear Junkie. The Animagi, an ultralight insulated full-zip jacket, is new for Fall 2009 and has taken the outerwear industry by storm. The Gear Junkie Top Ten Gear Picks debuted in 2003, annually naming the best ten products of the respective year out of hundreds of products tested and reviewed.
“The Animagi has become the must-have product from The North Face for anyone being active,” said Liz Braund, Performance Product Director for The North Face. “We are honored to be awarded this recognition from Gear Junkie. This is a great tribute to the jacket’s technologies and high demand.”
The North Face Animagi is the first insulated performance jacket from the company designed specifically for extended high-aerobic activity in dry, cold weather. The Primaloft Eco 40g insulated body is complemented with stretch, breathable panels on the torso sides and sleeves for body-mapped thermal protection and extreme ease of movement and comfort. The silhouette features thumb loops, hand pockets, reflective logos, a drop-tail hem and UPF 30.
“The unique design of the Animagi Jacket was a winner during my nightly neighborhood training runs to longer endurance fests where I ran for two hours or more in the cold,” said Stephen Regenold, Gear Junkie editor and founder. “It works for winter running where many other tops fail. It breathes where it needs to. It insulates the core.”
The North Face Ultrarunning Athlete Team worked closely with the company’s Research, Design & Development team to create and perfect the ultralight Animagi. Wanting a piece that was warm but allowed for breathability and range of motion, the Animagi was born. The Animagi has performed worldwide in China, Japan, Europe, Canada, South America, the United States, the Himalaya region and more.
For more than 40 years The North Face athlete team has defined the limits of what is humanly possible, and continually works with RD&D, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
Read Gear Junkie’s review at http://gearjunkie.com/years-best-gear
2009
Back to TopDCP Joins The North Face Athlete Team
SAN LEANDRO, California - January 7, 2009 - The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced snowboarder David Carrier- Porcheron, commonly known as DCP, has joined its athlete team. The North Face has a team of more than 60 professional global athletes which includes snowboarders, skiers, rock climbers, mountaineers, and endurance runners.
“DCP embodies the passion of The North Face,” said Aaron Carpenter, Vice President of Marketing for The North Face. “Not only does he inspire others to explore, he is paving the way for future generations. He pushes the envelope with his riding style, and remains rooted to his outdoor and environmental passions.”
DCP has been snowboarding for more than 18 years. He has starred in films by Kingpin, Treetop, The Gathering Collective and Mack Dawg Productions. In addition DCP has been featured on the Weather Channel’s popular show, “Epic Conditions.” Though filming is his primary focus, DCP still enjoys competition. He took third place in the 2008 Quiksilver Natural Selection: All Mountain Invitational at Jackson Hole.
A world-renowned rider, DCP has an arsenal of freestyle skills that he currently brings with him into the backcountry, where he spends most of his snowboard season.
“Change is good and very exciting,” said DCP. “It is a perfect alignment to work with a company that focuses its products on what snowboard athletes need and demand. I will be working alongside The North Face’s RD&D teams to help develop and create advanced products and collections.”
Canadian-born DCP splits his time between Squamish, British Columbia, Vail, Colorado, and Costa Rica, with his wife and daughter. An avid surfer, with the 2008 Quebec Open title (surfing) under his belt, DCP also skateboards and mountain bikes. Inspired by deep powder, big cliffs and bluebird powder days with the backcountry to himself, he takes his love of snow and outdoors and translates his passion to the environment. Committed to preserving the places he, his friends and family enjoy, DCP works to plant trees and off-set carbon footprints.
“The North Face athlete team as a whole is beyond inspiring,” said DCP. ”I’m stoked to start the next chapter alongside these legendary athletes.”
For 40 years The North Face has teamed up with the world’s finest mountaineers, alpinists, climbers, skiers, snowboarders and endurance adventurers who have defined the limits of what is humanly possible. The North Face Athlete team works closely with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
For more information on The North Face rider DCP, and The North Face athlete team, check out www.thenorthface.com
Mark Carter Enters The North Face Snowboard Team
SAN LEANDRO, California - January 14, 2009 - The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced snowboarder Mark Carter has joined its athlete team. The North Face has a team of more than 60 professional global athletes which includes snowboarders, skiers, rock climbers, mountaineers, and endurance runners.
“Mark brings good energy to The North Face athlete team, and his enthusiastic and inspirational approach aligns with The North Face’s Action Sports segment,” said Aaron Carpenter, Vice President of Marketing for The North Face. “We are pleased to continue our big mountain commitment by welcoming Mark to the family.”
Growing up on a cattle ranch in Wyoming, Carter has been snowboarding for 18 years. He recently wrapped up filming for Brain Farm and RedBull, and took second in the 2008 Quiksilver Natural Selection: All Mountain Invitational at Jackson Hole. He was featured in Teton Gravity Research’s Anomaly and Lost and Found, and has filmed with 1241 Pro, Bluebird Wax and Mongo Pro. A self-proclaimed “mountainman,” Carter spends his entire year outdoors. When he’s not riding he can be found guiding fly fishing and hunting trips.
“Being able to progress in the sport of snowboarding is very important to me,” said Carter. “Exploring new zones, working with new technology, pushing that next limit is essential to the progression of riding.”
For more than 40 years The North Face athlete team has defined the limits of what is humanly possible, and continually works with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
“The North Face athlete team is one big, very talented, family,” said Carter. ”I’m very honored to be a part of it.”
Sage Cattabriga-Alosa and Ingrid Backstrom Sweep Top Honors in Aspen
SAN LEANDRO, California - February 5, 2009 - The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced The North Face Athletes Sage Cattabriga-Alosa and Ingrid Backstrom swept the Powder 2009 Video Awards and Reader Poll, January 23, 2009. With Aspen, Colorado as the setting, the world’s finest of the ski industry gathered to celebrate the best of the best documented achievements of the 2008 season.
Cattabriga-Alosa once again stole the show, winning Best Male Performance in Under The Influence (Teton Gravity Research), in which he combined technical Alaska lines with Wyoming powder. He also took home Best Point of View for his use of a helmet camera and his on-slope perspective in the film. In addition to nabbing third place on the Reader’s Poll - Male, Cattabriga-Alosa won the coveted Best Line award, for his run of Haines, Alaska’s, Hotel Room, an intimidating, beautiful face with streaking spines running from top to bottom. Cattabriga-Alosa was also the subject of the winning Photo of the Year, taken by Adam Clark in Haines.
“It is a honor to have been recognized at the Powder Awards for the hard work TGR and I put in to last winter,” said Cattabriga-Alosa. “Mad props go out to all the inspiring skiers out there that live their dreams, from the local rippers to top pros, people are doing rad things on skis and snowboards and I am grateful to be a part of it.”
Backstrom continues her reign of Best Female Performance, in Claim (Matchstick Productions), where she shreds in both Alaska and her backyard of Squaw Valley, California. Backstrom also took home first place in the Reader’s Poll – Female, her fourth win in the category.
”I’m honored to be recognized by Powder and by everyone who voted in the Reader Poll,” said Backstrom. “I feel grateful to be included in such awesome company as all of the other nominees and winners, and inspired by all of the other skiers who are charging so hard!”
The Powder Video Awards and Reader Poll honor the ski world’s best filmmakers and athletes. Categories include Best Male and Female Performance, Best Cinematography, Breakthrough Performer of the Year, Best Point of View, Best Powder, Best Editing and Best Line. The awards also feature the Reader’s Poll Awards, which name skiing’s top five favorite male and female skiers as determined by votes from the readers of Powder magazine.
For more than 40 years The North Face has teamed up with the world’s finest mountaineers, alpinists, climbers, skiers, snowboarders and endurance adventurers who have defined the limits of what is humanly possible. The North Face Athlete team works closely with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
For more information on Sage Cattabriga-Alosa and Ingrid Backstrom, check out www.thenorthface.com For full results and details on the Powder Video Awards and Reader Poll, check out www.powder.com
Diane Van Deren Attempts "Hardest Event In The World"
SAN LEANDRO, California - February 11, 2009 - The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced The North Face Endurance team athlete Diane Van Deren will return to the Yukon Arctic Ultra, touted as the world’s coldest and toughest footrace.
Starting February 15, 2009, Van Deren will cover 430 miles in a punishing arctic environment, 130 miles more than her last year’s win, which was 300 miles in 2008’s Yukon Arctic Ultra. Last year, of the 31 entered, 24 participants withdrew from their respective races (marathon, 100-mile or 300-mile), some losing fingers and toes to hypothermia.
“I am encouraged by the fact that I can take my experience from last year to another level of endurance and athleticism,” said Van Deren.
Competitors will have 13 days to complete the route, and must be totally self-sufficient. Van Deren will be towing her own sled of supplies across the frozen landscape. While she will be carrying gear to fend off an arctic blizzard, as well as an 8,000 calorie per day diet, to eliminate excess weight, she has pared her sled down to a mere 45 lbs.
“The knowledge I gained from last year touches on things such as how to handle -40 degree temperature, how to pace myself, that I must stop and drink fluids more often, that I must gain more rest at each checkpoint, I would tape my feet differently,” said Van Deren. “I must do my own race, stay focused, and concentrate on getting to each checkpoint successfully.”
The 430-mile course is a first of its length, starting in Whitehorse, Canada. The race traverses the Yukon and Takhini Rivers, to end in Dawson City, Yukon. If successful, Van Deren will become the first female to complete the 430 miles on the most extreme course in the Yukon arctic region. In addition, this race will align with Van Deren’s “Miles for a Mission,” a fundraising effort to help patients and families affected by spinal cord and traumatic brain injury.
For more than 40 years The North Face athlete team has defined the limits of what is humanly possible, and continually works with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
For more information on Diane Van Deren, visit www.thenorthface.com For information on the Yukon Arctic Ultra, and to follow the race, visit www.arcticultra.de
The North Face global athlete Simone Moro & Denis Urubko reached the summit and realised the dreams of so many
The North Face global athlete Simone Moro, together with his team-mate Denis Urubko, reached the summit and realised the dreams of so many.
Makalu (8463m), the winter crown of the Himalaya…
The winter summit of Makalu (8463m) - until now it has never been trodden by the human foot during the harsh winter season. At 2pm on Monday 9th February 2009 The North Face global athlete Simone Moro, together with his team-mate Denis Urubko, reached the summit and realised the dreams of so many. The winter crown of the Himalayas, as Makalu had become known, is their deserved reward. Simone and Denis have touched the limits of human endurance. They have opened a chapter into a new era by their success on one of the remaining high-altitude challenges.
This ‘crown’ had posed the last great challenge for high altitude Himalayan mountaineering in winter. Makalu is a true giant in stature (at 8463m it is the 5th highest mountain in the world), in beauty, and in the minds and imaginations of the best high altitude alpinists of the world.
Simone and Denis made their attempt in true alpine style - without oxygen or high altitude Sherpa - just the two of them - in a fast and light style. This was their way to attempt the challenge of Makalu. It was not so much a challenge with Makalu, but with themselves. The highest mountain in the Himalaya yet to be climbed in winter - they were sure it was not necessary to lay siege to the mountain with a big expedition. They thought only that it would be “necessary to be very fast and strong when it was time to work and climb…” Fast and strong - when the time came, when the weather and wind permitted, then they were indeed fast and strong, and this led them to the virgin winter summit. Their success has realised the dreams and experience of almost 30 years, from the first winter attempt in 1980.
The expedition has been documented with video and photo dispatches on www.simonemoro.com inviting a wide audience to follow and to be inspired.
SIMONE’S PASSION FOR EXPLORATION has led him from his playground in the Italian Dolomites to the highest places on our earth. He is world renowned for his all round prowess as an alpinist, on rock, on ice and at altitude. His 40 expeditions during the last 16 years already include the first winter ascent of Shishapangma (8027m).
Simone has incredible drive and energy, his humility, his happiness and his love for life are a constant inspiration. For Simone to reach the winter summit of Makalu he has lived a dream, for him “it has been a very deep personal joy, but also the culmination of almost 30 years of efforts from the world’s best alpinists”.
Diane Van Deren Wins "Hardest Event In The World"
The North Face Endurance team athlete Diane Van Deren won the 2008 Yukon Arctic Ultra, touted as the world’s coldest and toughest footrace.
Starting February 15, 2009, Van Deren covered 430 miles in a punishing arctic environment, 130 miles more than her last year’s win, which was 300 miles in 2008’s Yukon Arctic Ultra. She placed fifth overall, first female, thus nabbing the title of first woman to complete this feat.
“This was the most brutal thing one could ever encounter,” said Van Deren. “It was so fulfilling in so many ways.”
Competitors had 13 days to complete the route, totally self-sufficient between checkpoints. Van Deren towed her own sled of supplies across the frozen landscape. At one point, 30 miles from the finish, Van Deren fell through the ice as she was taking a photograph, and thankfully another competitor was able to rescue her with her trekking pole. Drenched and frozen, Van Deren called it a night in -40 degree temperatures, but decided to keep moving in order to keep warm.
The Yukon Arctic Ultra aligned with Van Deren’s “Miles for a Mission,” a fundraising effort to help patients and families affected by spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries.
For more than 40 years The North Face athlete team has defined the limits of what is humanly possible, and continually works with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
For more information on Diane Van Deren, visit www.thenorthface.com/catalog/sc-brand/yukon-arctic-ultra-race.html For more information, please visit Yukon Arctic Ultra at www.arcticultra.de news section, http://www.arcticultra.de/en.php?News_Updates.
The North Face Base Camp Duffel Wins Coveted Gold Award
SAN LEANDRO, California - March 3, 2009 - The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced The North Face Base Camp Duffel has been awarded the prestigious Editor’s Choice Gold Award by Backpacker magazine. The Base Camp Duffel was introduced in 1979 and celebrates its 30th birthday in 2009. It is The North Face’s classic, bomber expedition duffel.
“The Base Camp Duffel is an iconic product from The North Face. It has withstood the test of time and is an essential, indestructible product for all of our team athletes,” said Barry McGeough, VP of Hardgoods at The North Face. “We are honored to be awarded this recognition from a team of editors who rigorously test and use the products they review. This is a great tribute to receive on the Base Camp Duffel’s 30th birthday.”
The Backpacker Editor’s Choice Awards, bestowed annually since 1993, honor the products that Backpacker editors have chosen as the best of the year based on months of trail testing. The Gold Award honors products that have held their ground through the years – loved when first introduced and is still loved because of superior design. The product must be at least five years old and relatively unchanged.
The North Face Base Camp Duffel is crafted of Phthalate-free TPR fabric laminate designed for travel and hauling. The bag features alpine-cut shoulder straps, large d-zip with zipper flap, dual daisy chains, twin haul handles on ends, four compression straps, internal mesh pockets, ID pocket and locking zippers.
“I do truly love the Base Camp Duffel. It literally contained all of my possessions during my dirtbag days traveling around on the rock climbing circuit in the US, and continues to travel everywhere with me today,” said The North Face Climbing Team athlete Renan Ozturk. “Its burly fabric keeps your gear dry when hauling deep into the Himalaya, and the reinforced bottom is key for dragging giant loads across rock or gritty terrain.”
Born in 1979 as The North Face Soft Luggage Duffel, it became the Vinyl Duffel in 1981. The new classic took the name Base Camp Vinyl Duffel in 1985. By 1988 it had dropped its maiden name to the Base Camp Duffel. Today, the Base Camp Duffel is available in five sizes, Mini to XL. Since its birth, the Base Camp collection has grown to include messenger and urban bags, versatile travel-tool bags, packs, and rolling luggage.
For more than 40 years The North Face athlete team has defined the limits of what is humanly possible, and continually works with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
Purchase The North Face Base Camp Duffel at www.thenorthface.com Read Backpacker magazine’s review at www.backpacker.com
The North Face Minibus 23 Named New and Notable Product of 2009
SAN LEANDRO, California - March 17, 2009 - The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced The North Face Minibus 23 tent was named New & Notable by Climbing magazine. The Minibus 23 is new for 2009 and boasts revolutionary interior volume with huge vestibules and well-thought out liveability features, all while being extremely lightweight.
“The Minibus 23 — with it’s ingenious pole system, super-sized head room, slick ventilation system, and other thoughtful tweaks — stood out as ideal for those day, weekend, or weeks-long cragging trips — the trips most of climbers seem to make most of the time,” said Justin Roth, Senior Editor at Climbing. “It is basically a perfect tent for the typical road tripping climber. For a good portion of us, comfort and quick, simple set up are top concerns in a tent.”
Climbing magazine’s Gear Guide features the latest and greatest of climbing product and gear, as the ultimate guide for climbers of all disciplines. The New & Notable honor is bestowed upon products that are the most innovative, exciting and functional, in each respective category.
The Minibus 23, a three-season tent, features large windows, clever high and low venting and mesh canopies to assist in warm weather comfort and breathability. Its comprehensive color-coded pole and webbing pitch system contributes to ease of setup and Twist Clips make the tent pitching and disassembly simpler and faster – all while saving weight. The fly is crafted of lightweight, yet rugged and weatherproof, siliconized nylon and boasts massive vestibules. The Jake’s Foot, a mini come-along of sorts, allows for fly tension leverage for a sound structure, regardless of weather. In addition, inside-outside pockets allow for accessibility without having to crawl back in the tent and convenient overhead pockets stow headlamps and accoutrements. The three-person version, The North Face Minibus 33, was recently awarded “Best Headroom” in Backpacker magazine’s 2009 Gear Guide.
“We are proud to have worked so closely with our athletes to build The North Face Minibus 23. With their help we were able to determine how to create the ideal tent that minimizes weight and footprint while maximizing comfort, roominess, and gigantic internal liveable space through the use of innovative pole and clip architecture that builds nearly straight walls” said Barry McGeough, VP of Hardgoods for The North Face. “We are thrilled that the editors at Climbing recognized this tent during their intensive gear testing process.”
For more than 40 years The North Face athlete team has defined the limits of what is humanly possible, and continually works with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
Purchase The North Face Minibus 23 at www.thenorthface.com Check out Climbing magazine at www.climbing.com
Americans Encouraged to Get Outside During National Camping Month
SAN LEANDRO, California - June 1, 2009 - The North Face®, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today marked June 2009 as National Camping Month, an initiative to encourage and inspire Americans of all ages to get outdoors.
Throughout the month of June, The North Face® will be holding free educational events, community activities and a sweepstakes to inspire and encourage individuals, their families and friends to embrace the outdoors in the simplest form – sleeping beneath the open skies.
According to the Outdoor Industry Association’s 2008 Outdoor Recreation Participation Report, outdoor participation declines with age. From 2006 to 2007, there was an 11.6 percent decrease of participation in outdoor activities among American children ages 6 to 17 years of age. With the arrival of summer, June is the ideal month to take up camping and embrace spending time outdoors. Whether celebrating graduation or Father’s Day, or just looking to get away from home, families can take advantage of various outdoor locales without the cost of a destination trip.
“We are dedicated to fueling passion for the outdoors and encouraging appreciation of outdoor activities amongst individuals of all ages and abilities,” said Aaron Carpenter, Vice President of Marketing for The North Face®. “The North Face sends expeditions to the world’s highest peaks and most remote locations, but the goal of National Camping Month is to get people outside anywhere - a summer-long backpacking adventure, a week-long camping trip, a one-night campground outing, or simply a backyard tent.”
The North Face® retail stores will be offering free clinics on topics such as how to select appropriate camping gear, how to pack a backpack, how to pitch a tent, how to make gourmet campfire meals and where to camp locally. Detailed event information is available at The North Face retail stores.
“This is a great opportunity to teach others about the importance of respecting nature and proper outdoor ethics while having a great time,” said Carpenter. “Programs like National Camping Month are vital for life-long outdoor commitment and enjoyment.”
To kick off National Camping Month, The North Face® and Travelocity are presenting the Explore Moab sweepstakes, which gives people a chance to win a grand prize trip for two to Moab, Utah, including airfare, lodging, meals, and guided hikes and tours, as well as a $2,000 The North Face gift card. Ten Runner-Up prizes include coveted national park passes and The North Face gift cards. For details on how to enter, visit your local The North Face® store or log onto www.thenorthface.com. In addition, those who enter Explore Moab in June 2009 will receive free shipping for online orders of $125 or more at www.thenorthface.com.
For more information about National Camping Month, including camping gear picks, and to find The North Face® retail store closest to you, visit www.thenorthface.com.
Hal Koerner Joins The North Face Athlete Team
The North Face reinforces its ultrarunning heritage, welcoming one of the world’s best runners to its team.
The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced ultrarunner Hal Koerner has joined its global athlete team. The North Face has a team of more than 60 professional global athletes which includes runners, snowboarders, skiers, rock climbers and mountaineers.
“Hal embodies the passion of The North Face,” said Aaron Carpenter, Vice President of Marketing for The North Face. “His determination, enthusiasm and fresh take on the ultrarunning scene not only inspires the running community, but the entire family at The North Face. We are excited to work with Hal in accomplishing his goals.”
A world-renowned runner, Koerner has raced in almost 100 ultramarathons (classified as anything longer than 26.2 miles) and has placed in the top three in 75 percent of them. Koerner set the speed record for the Colorado Trail (≈500 miles, topping out at 13,334 feet) in 2003 with a time of 9 days, 10 hours and 19 minutes. Koerner is a two-time champion of the Angeles Crest 100 mile Endurance Run and five time champion of the Bear 100. He set course records at the Whiskeytown 50k Trail Run in 2006 and the World of Hurt 50k in 2007.
Just in 2009 Koerner placed first in the MacDonald Forest 50k Trail Run and the grueling Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run (his second win of the race). He took third in the Chuckanut Mountain 50k Race and sixth in the epic Wasatch Front 100 Mile Endurance Run. For 2010, Koerner will attempt to win his third consecutive Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run, his favorite ultra race, in hopes of completing in less than 16 hours.
“There is a thread in all races where the juxtaposition of dirt and air, camaraderie and solitude, adrenaline and guts, winning and losing all go away, it’s then that you know you love it,” said Koerner. ”I’m excited to run for a team that has so much talent, breadth and combined experience.”
Koerner will be making his debut as a team athlete for The North Face this coming weekend, December 5, 2010, at The North Face Endurance Challenge Championships in San Francisco, California, taking a shot at the $10,000 grand prize. The North Face Endurance Challenge is a nationwide series featuring four course lengths - 10K, Half Marathon, 50K and 50-Mile – designed to push people to run farther than they ever have. It will be his second time running the race.
“The North Face has been committed to the ultra scene for some time now and hasn’t backed down. I’m attracted to this characteristic and would love to make trail running a more familiar activity,” said Koerner. “I think that enthusiasm creates motivation. I like to promote ultrarunning as much as one person can and hopefully steer more people into making the uncommon, common.”
Koerner, the owner of a successful running store in Ashland, Oregon, will be working closely with The North Face Research, Design and Development team, especially on footwear. His expertise and experience will add to the rapidly developing collection. When he’s not running or at the store, Koerner can be found hanging out at home or at a concert in Ashland, Oregon, with his fiancé, Carly, and their dog, Abbey. He organizes a number of races that help foster running and trail work in the greater Rogue Valley of Oregon.
Diane Van Deren Named Adventurer of the Year
SAN LEANDRO, California - November 23, 2009 - The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced Running Team athlete Diane Van Deren has been honored as one of National Geographic Adventure’s Adventurers of the Year.
Adventurer of the Year is awarded to individuals who excel in exploration, conservation, action sports and humanitarian work. The Adventurer of the Year award culminates a stellar 2009 for Van Deren. She began the year winning the Yukon Arctic Ultra in February, touted as the world’s coldest and toughest footrace. Van Deren covered 430 miles in a punishing arctic environment, placing fifth overall, first female, thus nabbing the title of first woman to complete this feat.
“Being recognized by National Geographic Adventure magazine as an Adventurer of The Year, is an honor and a reflection of the passion and drive one must have to push yourself beyond the limit of what you think is possible,” said Van Deren. “I am so thrilled and excited to be receiving this award.”
This summer, she broke her personal record at the Hardrock 100 Endurance Run, Colorado, and placed third female in the Bighorn Trail 100 Mile Endurance Run, Wyoming, and in the Canadian Death Race, Canada. She placed fourth overall in The North Face 100 2009 Outdoor Endurance Challenge in China.
In July, Van Deren graced the front page of The New York Times, in a feature focusing on her running, her brain surgery, goals and inspiration. In 2009 she was also featured on the BBC and ABC News radio networks.
“Diane is an inspiration not just to elite runners and enthusiasts, but to our entire company,” said Aaron Carpenter, Vice President of Marketing for The North Face. “Her constant energy and enthusiasm sets the bar for many athletes and employees. The North Face is proud to be aligned with such an inspiring and motivated athlete.”
For the first time, readers will have the opportunity to vote on their favorite of the honorees for the Reader’s Choice Award, to be announced Tuesday, January 19, 2010. Other honorees of the award include Marc Hoffmeister, Stephen Bouey, Steven Shoppman, Kahdija Bahram, Katey Walter Anthony, Louie Psihoyos and John Grunsfeld. To vote for the Reader’s Choice Award and to learn more about Adventurer of the Year, check out http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com/2009/12/best-of-adventure/readers-choice-award
Consumer Reports Ranks The North Face Jester As Best Pack For Back To School
SAN LEANDRO, California - August 3, 2009 - The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, today announced The North Face Jester daypack ranked the highest in Consumer Reports’ Backpack Reviews.
The North Face Jester is a classic 30 liter daypack. It scored 80 out of 100, with “excellent” ratings in safety features and durability, “very good” ratings in construction quality, rain resistance and convenience, and a “good” rating for comfort. In addition, the Jester was named the “Recommended” bag among all tested.
The Jester features a front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip, comfortable foam backpanel, large main compartment ideal for binders and books, and a bungee system on the upper face. It also boasts mesh water bottle pockets on the side for easy hydrating, removeable hipbelt, large reflective patch for night visibility and a convenient carrying handle. In addition, it also has the cool factor for today’s youth.
“We are pleased the Jester rated so highly from Consumer Reports’ team of dedicated testers and reviewers,” said Scott McGuire, Equipment Product Director for The North Face. “Not only does it meet the demands of students, it exceeds the expectations of parents.”
Consumer Reports is published by the Consumer’s Union, an expert, independent, nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. The Consumer’s Union accepts no free samples ort products and employs several testers, shoppers and technical experts to buy and test the products it evaluates.
For more than 40 years The North Face athlete team has defined the limits of what is humanly possible, and continually works with Research, Design & Development, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products.
Purchase The North Face Jester at www.thenorthface.com Read Consumer Reports’ review at www.consumerreports.org
