We’re the pioneers of fleece. We know how to make insulated fabrics that keep you comfortable and warm in any condition.
Main Story. 08. 06.
For almost 100 years now, 66°North has been making high-performance, element-proof clothing designed to withstand the harsh conditions and extreme weather characteristic of its artic home. Founded with the purpose of making protective clothing for fishermen and workers braving the North Atlantic elements, the unwavering performance of the company’s premium-grade cold weather gear is reflective of a time when having the right clothing could be a matter of life and death. Still today 66°North’s customers expect garments that are durable and functional in addition to being comfortable. Which is one reason why, over the years, the Icelandic outerwear brand has integrated nearly every Polartec fabric into its collections. The other reason is that 66°North and Polartec share common values, including a steadfast emphasis on quality, resilience and sustainability.
“We highly value Polartec’s efforts in evolving the industry standards. They have consistently delivered the industry’s best qualities, brought new innovative products to the market and have shown great initiative in solving environmental concerns in their products.”
Guðbjörg Jakobsdóttir, Apparel Designer, 66°North.
Ahead of the Curve
66°North and Polartec have been innovating products and taking initiatives and leading the industry for more than three decades. Not only was 66°North one of the first brands to market Polartec® Alpha™ insulation, to test Polartec® NeoShell™ and deploy Polartec® Power Air™ fabrics, but the close collaboration has served to reinforce its overreaching commitment to sustainability. So much so that the 66°North design team turns to Polartec when designing cutting-edge products that meet the needs of our customers while addressing environmental concerns. No surprise here. Polartec fabrics have consistently met and exceeded expectations. And because Polartec products are consistently the strongest sellers, they have earned the trust of Icelanders as well as 66°North’s global customers.
We Exist Because We Must
On a small island nation where everyone knows everyone, 66°North’s customers are also their friends, family, and colleagues. Its DNA began here; making high-quality outerwear that was durable and repairable to protect its community from risking their lives at sea. Today, the livelihoods of many Icelanders are threatened by warming seas, and 66°North sees the impact of global warming first-hand in the glaciers that dominate the landscape. While the role of a manufacturer is to protect customers, 66°North’s responsibility as a business is to lessen its impact on the environment that it is so much a part of. Unlike many other brands, 66°North makes most of its garments in its very own factories, giving the company far greater control over its footprint.
Pioneering Innovation
In addition to its certified carbon offset and the fact that both its headquarters and most its operations rely on clean energy, 66°North’s longstanding relationship with Polartec is founded upon the shared value of reducing our environmental impact. The updated Snæfell shell jacket, which is now crafted with Polartec® Power Shield™ Pro plant-based waterproof fabric technology, is a perfect example. Featuring an advanced monolithic membrane made from a combination of plant based and non-PFAS materials, Polartec® Power Shield™ Pro grants 50% lower carbon footprint than virgin nylon. All while achieving an industry-leading combination of waterproofness, windproofness, long-lasting breathability, high durability, and comfortable stretch. It may be named after the largest freestanding mountain in Iceland, but it’s superpower is providing sustainable weather protection for hikers, kayakers, bicycle commuters, skiers, festival goers and anyone who just wants to go for a walk on a rainy day.
Adventure Ready
Award-winning, self-taught photographer and artist Chris Burkard embodies the spirit of adventure. His images are punctuated by energized landscapes, moments of bliss and his stunning scenes that inspire others to explore and appreciate nature at its finest. As someone who is constantly on the move, often in challenging and unpredictable environments, Chris relies on gear that can keep up with his demanding lifestyle. Enter the Snæfell shell jacket made with Polartec® Power Shield™ Pro.
More than just a piece of clothing the Snæfell shell jacket is a reliable companion, offering the performance and protection Chris needs without compromising on style or sustainability. Whether he's scaling a mountain or navigating the forest to capture the perfect shot, Chris trusts his Snæfell shell jacket to protect him from even the harshest conditions. All while maintaining breathability and soft-to-the-touch comfort. And since its element-proof performance is virtually incorruptible over time, the Snæfell is sure to be his go-to choice for years to come.
Past. Present. Future
It wasn’t long ago when staying alive in Iceland was a struggle. To this day, resourcefulness (using what you have and making it last) is deeply ingrained within its culture. For the folks at 66°North, this their úlpa - a special Icelandic word to describe a single multipurpose jacket that makes you ready for anything. 66°North relies on their úlpa for everyday life. They remember it when choosing sustainable materials that don’t sacrificing performance. So, just as they have for over three decades, 66°North and Polartec will continue to set the standard for premium outdoor apparel that can stand the test of time; ensuring that adventurers like Chris Burkard have the best gear to support their passions and protect the planet.