1 | Brand Overview — The Pioneer of Technical Exploration

The North Face isn't just an outdoor brand. It's the industry standard that every competitor measures itself against.

The Origin Story

Founded in 1966 in a small San Francisco shop by Doug Tompkins, the brand took its name from the coldest, most unforgiving side of a mountain — the north face. That single idea has driven 60 years of relentless innovation: create equipment that can withstand the harshest challenges imaginable.

Originally founded by Doug Tompkins and sold to Hap Klopp in 1968, who drove its expedition-era expansion, TNF evolved from a local climbing shop to the global authority on technical outerwear.

From selling climbing gear to Berkeley mountaineers to outfitting Himalayan expeditions to becoming a global cultural phenomenon, TNF has never compromised on its core principle: performance first, everything else second.

The Impossible Duality

The North Face has achieved what few brands can: it's simultaneously trusted by world-class mountaineers on 8,000-meter peaks and adopted as the uniform of global street culture. It belongs on Everest and in East London. On the Annapurna massif and on the Manchester tram.

This isn't brand dilution — it's cultural proof that authentic technical excellence transcends categories.

What The North Face Stands For

• Technical Authority — Every garment is engineered for extreme conditions and tested at altitude. When elite climbers risk their lives, they choose TNF.
• Industry Pioneer — First brand to bring GORE-TEX® to market (1977). Created the Responsible Down Standard and gifted it to the entire industry (2014). Co-founded The Conservation Alliance (1989). TNF doesn't follow trends — it creates the standards others adopt.
• Cultural Crossover — From the 1978 all-female Annapurna expedition to 1990s New York hip-hop to Supreme collaborations to the Free Solo Oscar win — TNF's cultural influence is unmatched in outdoor gear.
• Environmental Activism — Not greenwashing, but measurable action: Science-Based Targets Initiative verified, Circular Economy pioneer, $20M+ in Conservation Alliance grants since 1989.

How OD's Positions The North Face

At OD's, The North Face represents the undisputed benchmark for technical outerwear. It's the rare brand that bridges two worlds: the extreme performance demanded by alpine explorers and the cultural currency demanded by the street.

2 | Craftsmanship & Materials — Engineering for Extremes

The North Face's cultural status is built on a foundation of material science and disciplined construction. Every stitch, every membrane, every baffle serves a measurable purpose.

2.1 Waterproof Membranes

2.2 Insulation Technologies

2.3 Technical Fabrics & Reinforcement

2.4 Construction Excellence

Baffle Construction

Pioneered in the iconic 1992 Nuptse jacket. Horizontal baffles prevent down migration and create the signature puffer silhouette. Each baffle is independently sealed — if one fails, others maintain insulation integrity.

Fully Seam-Sealed Shells

All FUTURELIGHT™, GORE-TEX®, and DryVent™ 3L jackets feature taped seams for complete waterproof integrity. No weak points. No compromises.

Articulated Patterning

Ergonomic cuts designed for climbers' range of motion. Reinforced stress zones at elbows, shoulders, and knees. Pre-shaped sleeves follow natural arm curve. This is biomechanical design, not fashion tailoring.

Harness-Compatible Pockets

Summit Series™ shells feature high-placed pockets that remain accessible when wearing a backpack or climbing harness. When you're on a wall face, you can't remove your pack to access gear.

YKK Zippers

Water-resistant AquaGuard® zippers on all waterproof shells. Reverse-coil construction for durability. Two-way zippers on longer jackets allow ventilation without exposing core.

2.5 Fit Philosophy by Category

• Summit Series™ / Technical Shells — Cut generously for full three-layer systems (base + mid + shell). Articulated for movement.
• Urban Retro (Nuptse, 1996, Himalayan) — Deliberately relaxed, boxy silhouettes. Cropped lengths. This is intentional design honoring 1990s streetwear adoption.
• Mid-Layers — Standard fit. Designed to layer over base, under shell.
• Base Layers — Slim fit. Next-to-skin moisture management.

3 | Innovation — First to Market, First to Lead

The North Face doesn't follow outdoor trends. It creates the standards the industry adopts.

Waterproof Innovation Timeline

Insulation Evolution

Footwear Technology

Performance Systems

• WindWall™ — Blocks 90–100% of wind while maintaining breathability. Used in softshells and hybrid designs.
• Non-PFC DWR — Fluorine-free water repellent, safer chemistry without compromising performance.
• Spectra® Reinforcement — UHMWPE grids for extreme durability in high-wear zones.

Sustainability Innovation

• Responsible Down Standard (2014) — Developed by TNF, proven effective, then gifted to Textile Exchange for industry-wide adoption. This is leadership: creating standards that benefit everyone, not hoarding competitive advantages.
• Exploration Without Compromise Badge (2023) — Products with ≥75% recycled/renewable materials. Independently verified seasonal audits.
• Renewed Programme (2018) — Refurbish and resell used gear. Extends product life, reduces waste, proves circularity works at scale.

4 | Cultural Legacy — From Annapurna to A$AP Rocky

The North Face is a uniform for those who push boundaries — in the mountains and on the streets.

Cultural Arc by Decade

1960s–1980s — The Pioneer Era

San Francisco counterculture hub → environmental activism (1972 Alaska expedition opposing oil pipeline) → GORE-TEX® revolution → Arlene Blum's 1978 all-female Annapurna expedition ("A Woman's Place is on Top") → technical credibility established.

1990s — The Icon Era

1992 Nuptse becomes definitive down jacket → adopted by New York hip-hop culture → bold colors and oversized silhouettes become streetwear staples → 1990 Trans-Antarctica dogsled expedition raises climate awareness → cultural crossover complete.

2000s — Endurance & Expansion

Dean Karnazes' 50 marathons in 50 days (2006) → Alex Honnold free solos Half Dome (2008) → Flight Series™ redefines ultralight running apparel → TNF embedded in global urban culture.

2010s–Present — Sustainable Leadership

Responsible Down Standard gifted to industry (2014) → Free Solo wins Academy Award (2017) → FUTURELIGHT™ launches (2019) → Exploration Without Compromise programme (2023) → circular economy leadership.

The Explorer's Uniform

When professionals risk their lives, brand loyalty becomes irrelevant. Performance is binary: it works or you die. TNF athletes choose the gear because independent testing proves it performs.

The Streetwear Uniform

In the 1990s, the Nuptse became an icon of New York hip-hop culture. Its oversized silhouette, bold color blocking, and visible technical features made it the perfect bridge between function and style.

These aren't marketing partnerships — they're validation from creative communities that authentic design transcends categories.

Why This Matters

• Validates Longevity — Designs from 1992 remain relevant in 2025. This is timeless functional design, not trend-chasing.
• Gives Styling Permission — If A$AP Rocky and Alex Honnold both wear it, you can style it however you want.
• Fuels Content — Cultural crossover creates endless storytelling opportunities.

OD's UK Styling Translation

We translate global hype into real UK outfits:

• Mountain Jacket with selvedge denim and Chelsea boots
• Nuptse over oversized knitwear with wide-leg trousers
• Denali Fleece with trench coat and tailored joggers
• 1996 Retro with technical trousers and Salomons

Technical performance meets British style sensibility.

5 | Sizing Hub — The Definitive TNF Fit System

Sizing is the #1 customer question and the #1 reason for returns. This is your canonical reference.

The Essential Rules (Start Here)

• TNF fits true to standard UK sizing across most styles
• Shells are cut for layering — roomy fit is intentional, not "running big"
• Between sizes? Choose based on layering plan and desired aesthetic
• Urban retro styles (Nuptse, 1996 Retro, Himalayan) are deliberately boxy and cropped
• Technical shells must fit over base + mid-layers

The Layering System Philosophy

TNF designs around a three-layer system:

• Layer 1: Base Layer — Slim fit. Next-to-skin moisture wicking.
• Layer 2: Mid-Layer — Standard fit. Insulation over base, under shell.
• Layer 3: Outer Shell — Regular/relaxed fit. Weather protection over full system.

Urban Retro Exception — Nuptse, 1996 Retro, and Himalayan are deliberately oversized and cropped. This honors 1990s streetwear adoption. The "boxy" fit is intentional design, not poor sizing.

Quick Fit Guide by Category

How to Measure for Apparel

• Chest: Measure around fullest part, under armpits, tape level front and back
• Waist: Measure around natural waistline
• Hips: Measure around fullest part
• Sleeve: Measure from center back neck, across shoulder, down to wrist

Measure over light clothing. Tape should be snug but not tight. Evening measurements are most accurate (body expands slightly during day).

Men's Apparel Size Chart

Women's Apparel Size Chart

Footwear Sizing

Measure heel-to-toe length in centimeters. Match to chart below.

Men's Footwear

Women's Footwear

Pro Tips

• Measure feet in evening (feet expand slightly during day)
• Wear socks you intend to use
• TNF trail footwear has roomy toe box — true to size provides proper fit

Kids & Youth Sizing

Kids' Sizing Philosophy: Allow maximum 0.5 cm growth room in footwear. Too much room compromises insulation and causes blisters. Better to replace annually than size up excessively.

Accessories Sizing

Gloves

Measure hand circumference at widest point (across palm, excluding thumb)

Hats

Measure head circumference 1 cm above eyebrows

Backpacks

Based on torso length (base of neck to top of hip bone)

Sizing FAQs

Q: Does The North Face run big?

A: TNF fits true to UK sizing. Shells feel roomy because they're designed for layering systems. This is intentional, not "running big."

Q: I'm between sizes — which should I choose?

A: Choose based on your layering plan. If wearing as a shell over mid-layers, go true to size. If you want an oversized aesthetic, size up.

Q: Do TNF jackets shrink?

A: Not if washed correctly (30°C gentle cycle, tumble dry low). High heat can damage membranes and cause shrinkage.

Q: Can I wear technical shells casually without layering?

A: Yes. Summit Series™ shells are cut for layering, but work solo. Urban retro styles are designed for standalone wear.

Q: I have broad shoulders — should I size up?

A: Try your normal size first. TNF uses articulated patterning designed for range of motion.

Q: How much growth room for kids' footwear?

A: Maximum 0.5 cm. More compromises insulation and causes blisters. Replace annually.

6 | Care & Repair — Keep It Performing for Life

The North Face is designed to last a lifetime. Proper care maintains performance and honors the environmental cost of production.

The Golden Rules

• NEVER: Hot wash, fabric softener, bleach, dry-clean, direct heat
• ALWAYS: Zip up, use tech detergent, cold/gentle cycle, rinse thoroughly, tumble dry low

Care by Product Type

Waterproof Shells (FUTURELIGHT™, GORE-TEX®, DryVent™)

Washing:

1. Close all zippers and Velcro
2. Use technical detergent (TNF Apparel Cleaner, Nikwax Tech Wash)
3. Cold or 30°C gentle cycle
4. Double rinse to remove all detergent residue
5. No fabric softener (clogs membrane pores)

Drying:

• Tumble dry low heat for 20 minutes
• Critical: Low-heat tumble drying reactivates DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating
• Water should bead on surface after drying

DWR Restoration: If water soaks in rather than beading, reapply DWR spray (Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On). Clean garment first, apply evenly, air dry, then tumble dry low 20 minutes to activate.

Down Jackets (RDS Certified)

Washing:

1. Use down-specific detergent (Nikwax Down Wash Direct)
2. Close all zippers
3. Gentle cold cycle
4. Double rinse
5. Never use fabric softener (destroys loft)

Drying:

• Tumble dry low with 2-3 clean tennis balls
• Tennis balls break up clumps and restore loft
• Check periodically; redistribute fill by hand if needed
• May take 2-3 hours for complete drying
• Must be fully dry before storage (any moisture = mildew)

Storage:

• Store uncompressed
• Hang on wide padded hangers or lay flat
• Never store in stuff sack long-term (damages loft)

Never Dry-Clean: Solvents strip natural oils from down and damage membranes.

Fleece & Mid-Layers

Washing:

• 30°C gentle cycle
• Mild liquid detergent
• No fabric softener
• Air dry flat (hanging stretches fabric)

Pilling: Normal wear pattern. Use fabric shaver to remove pills without damaging fibers.

Synthetic Insulation (ThermoBall™, Heatseeker™)

Washing:

• Mild detergent
• Cold gentle cycle
• Tumble dry low

Advantages: Retains warmth when wet, dries faster than down, simpler care.

Footwear

Cleaning:

1. Remove insoles and laces
2. Brush off dried dirt with stiff brush
3. Wash with warm water + mild soap
4. Air dry away from direct heat
5. Stuff with newspaper to maintain shape

Waterproofing: Reapply waterproof spray seasonally (before autumn, mid-winter). Clean boots first for best adhesion.

Insole Replacement: Replace every 400-500 km or when cushioning feels compressed.

Backpacks & Duffels

Cleaning:

1. Empty all pockets
2. Brush off debris
3. Spot-clean with mild soap and damp cloth
4. Wipe ballistic nylon panels
5. Air dry completely before storing

Never machine wash backpacks: Damages structural frames and coatings.

Professional Repairs & Lifetime Warranty

UK Repair Network: Liverpool • Manchester • Leeds • Birmingham • London • Cardiff • Bristol • Edinburgh

Services Available:

• Seam and stitch repairs
• Zipper replacement
• Patch application
• DWR reapplication
• Down redistribution

Warranty Repairs: Free for manufacturing defects

Out-of-Warranty: £15–£50 typical (depends on repair complexity)

The Renewed Programme

TNF refurbishes and resells used gear to extend product lifecycle. This is circular economy in action.

"The most sustainable product is the one you don't have to replace."

Trade-in options available at select TNF stores and authorized retailers.

7 | Responsibility & Sustainability — Exploration Without Compromise

The North Face, owned by VF Corporation since 2000, has embedded environmental responsibility into its business model since co-founding The Conservation Alliance in 1989. This isn't marketing — it's measurable action backed by Science-Based Targets Initiative verification.

Exploration Without Compromise Programme

Products with this badge meet strict criteria:

• ≥75% recycled, renewable, or responsibly sourced materials
• Non-fluorinated DWR finish (no PFAS "forever chemicals")
• Independently verified through seasonal audits

Circular Design Framework

1. Source Better

Goal: 100% responsibly sourced fabrics by 2025

Progress: 75%+ achieved (verified 2024)

2. Minimize Waste

• Recycle/repurpose all fabric offcuts
• Zero-waste pattern cutting reduces material waste by 15%
• Eliminate single-use plastics (80% achieved)

3. Maintain Durability

• Gear built for decades, not seasons
• Reinforced stress zones
• Repairable construction (no glued seams)

4. Champion Cyclability

• DryVent™ Mono: 100% polyester mono-material construction for simplified end-of-life recycling
• Modular designs allow component replacement

Take-Back & Circular Programmes

Measurable Goals (Science-Based Targets Initiative Verified)

• 100% recycled/responsible clothing by 2025 (75%+ achieved)
• 100% responsible footwear & equipment by 2030 (60% achieved)
• 50% supplier emission reduction by 2030 (25% achieved)
• Eliminate single-use plastics by 2025 (80% achieved)
• 1.5°C climate alignment (SBTi verified)

Industry Leadership

Conservation Alliance Co-Founder (1989)

$20M+ in grants to grassroots wilderness protection projects. Over 73 million acres of wildlands protected through direct advocacy and funding.

Bluesign® System Partner

Responsible chemical and water management throughout supply chain. Third-party verification of environmental safety.

Fair Labor Association Accreditation

Ethical supply-chain audits. Worker rights, fair wages, safe conditions verified through independent inspections.

People & Community

Explore Fund Council (2021)

Expands outdoor access for underrepresented communities. Grants to organizations breaking down barriers to nature.

Factory Initiatives:

• Gender equity training
• Anti-harassment programmes
• Leadership development
• Living-wage goals

8 | Authenticity, Counterfeits & Warranty — Buy Safe, Stay Covered

The North Face's popularity makes it a target for counterfeiters. Fake TNF jackets flood online marketplaces, endangering customers and funding organized crime.

How to Verify Authenticity

Buy Only from Authorized Retailers

OD's is a fully authorized UK retailer. All stock sourced directly from TNF's official distribution network.

Beware Fake Websites

Counterfeiters create domains using "northface" or "tnf" with slight variations:

• northface-uk-outlet.com (fake)
• thenorthface-sale.co.uk (fake)
• tnf-official-store.com (fake)

Check Authentic Indicators:

• Consistent stitching and high-quality fabrics
• Correct logos (precise spacing, clean embroidery)
• Hologram labels on hang tags
• Standard price bands (not 60%+ off RRP)
• Official UK distribution channels

Counterfeit Red Flags:

• ❌ Poor materials (thin shells, low-loft down)
• ❌ Misspelled labels or tags
• ❌ No hang tags or incorrect tags
• ❌ Suspiciously low prices
• ❌ Unsafe chemicals (toxic smells, skin irritation)

Lifetime Warranty Coverage

The North Face offers a lifetime warranty covering manufacturing and craftsmanship defects with proof of purchase.

What's Covered:

• Stitch or seam failures not caused by wear
• Zipper defects (mechanism failure, not normal wear)
• Material defects (premature baffle collapse, membrane delamination)
• Construction flaws

What's NOT Covered:

• Normal wear and tear
• Misuse or improper care
• Damage from alterations
• Dry-cleaning damage (voids warranty)
• Cosmetic issues (pilling, fading from UV exposure)

Warranty Claim Process

1. Contact OD's First — We handle the entire warranty process on your behalf. No dealing with corporate customer service departments.
2. Assessment — We inspect the product to determine if damage is covered under warranty terms.
3. TNF Inspection — We submit claim to TNF for verification (3-6 weeks typical).
4. Resolution — Exchange, repair, or refund based on TNF determination.

Keep Your Receipt: Proof of purchase required for all warranty claims. OD's maintains purchase records for registered customers.

Returns Policy

OD's Standard Returns: 14 days from delivery, unworn with original tags, in original packaging.

For sizing questions before purchase, contact our fit experts to get it right the first time.

9 | The OD's Difference — Local Expertise, Real Service

Why buy The North Face from OD's? Because we understand why TNF matters — and we provide the expertise to help you choose right.

• Authorized UK Retailer — All genuine stock sourced directly from TNF's official UK distribution network. Full warranty support. No grey imports.
• Expert Fit Guidance — We understand the layering system philosophy. Real try-ons, sizing advice based on your specific use case, UK climate considerations.
• Complete Aftercare — TNF care kits, tech detergents, waterproofing sprays in stock. We provide the tools to maintain performance.
• Warranty Support — We handle warranty claims directly. No navigating corporate customer service. We fight for you.
• UK Styling Translation — We pair TNF technical gear with British tailoring sensibility: Mountain Jackets with selvedge denim, Nuptses with trench coats, Denali fleeces with wide-leg trousers.
• Fast Human Support — No chatbots. No automated responses. Real people who know the products.
• Tested in UK Conditions — We understand British weather: wet trails, coastal winds, unpredictable temperatures. Our recommendations reflect real UK use.
• Community Support — We sponsor local adventure projects, support UK climbing organizations, and fund outdoor access initiatives.

Shop the OD's TNF Edit

The Icons

1996 Retro Nuptse • Mountain Jacket • Denali Fleece

Technical Shells

Mountain Light FUTURELIGHT™ • GORE-TEX® Pro Shells • DryVent™ Range

Insulated

ThermoBall™ ECO • Himalayan • 1992 Nuptse

Trail & Footwear

VECTIV™ Fastpack • Escape Peak • Summit Series™

Urban

1996 Retro Collection • Base Camp Duffel

Kids

Mini Nuptse • Youth VECTIV™ • Reversible Fleece

Care

Apparel Protector • Down Wash • Beanies • Gloves