Jack Wolfskin’s story begins in the deep forests of Canada’s Yukon Territory, the very region that inspired Jack London’s famous novel The Call of the Wild. German explorer and entrepreneur Ulrich Dausien sits with his friends by the campfire, thinking of a name for his new company. You would think the howl of a wolf piercing the darkness would be their inspiration, but it was a bear attack that pawed Dausien on the forehead that caused them to scramble. In the days following nature’s revenge, they were able to reflect what would inspire their name, logo, and ethos of the iconic outdoor brand Jack Wolfskin. The wolf’s fur protects the animal against the elements as effectively as Dausien envisions his outdoor products protecting their users. London lends his first name to the campfire christening, and Jack Wolfskin is welcomed into the world — An authentic adventurer born from the wilderness.
Like Polartec, Jack Wolfskin is celebrating 40 years in the outdoors. Since 1981 they’ve outfit European discoverers with tough but well-designed weather-protection products and other outdoor gear. At the time, Dausien understood there was a hunger for adventure among German youths and thought there was a lot to be desired in the outdoor market. So he took it upon himself to fill that hole — which makes sense considering his story.