Wednesday 5 October 2011

THE PIONEER - YVON CHOUINARD

'Man On Ice'
Here is a little read about the founder of Patagonia and how it all started. I hope you enjoy it...
Yvon Chouinard


Yvon Chouinard has always drawn something from nothing. And he believes in subtracting, not adding.

He taught himself carpentry and ironmongery, and he entrusted his business to other inspired individuals while he travelled to the ends of the earth (Himalaya, Patagonia) developing new techniques of climbing, on vertical rock faces, vertiginal peaks, and ice.

The original conception was a hand-made collection of climbing pitons, paring the material to the minimum, utilising artisinal methods with practical experience.

Clothing came later, as the climbing kit of the day was too moisture-retentive and heavy. Yvon developed a series of fabrics that are insulating and light, and then expanded into the field of casual wear.
Make a trip to the 6A Langley Street, Covent Garden store, and judge for yourself.