I had an opportunity to visit with the folks over at North Face last week during the Outdoor Retailer convention and I was very impressed with what I see them doing.

North Face has been in business now for over 40 years and have always been know for creating quality products that last a very long time, a very green step in itself.  Now North Face is greening the product line by increasing their use of recycled and sustainable materials in their products and removing glues and high VOC products. For example,  webbing and buckles on some product lines are now made from recycled materials, glueless shoes are now available, and a backpack made of ripstop wool has hit the shelves.

Product lines are not the only difference being made over at North Face.  Sustainability has also taken a central place in the organization.

Sustainability and conservation form the core of The North Face pledge to advance the well-being of the planet, its citizens, and those who enjoy exploring it.

As we continue to develop authentic and technically innovative products for the outdoor athlete, The North Face will also aggressively and responsibly continue to integrate environmental, economic, philanthropic, and social initiatives into our business practices.

The North Face embraces this responsibility and opportunity to contribute as an industry leader to solutions and creation of best practices.

I had an opportunity to look at a few new and wonderful products that North Face has developed and I must say that I am impressed. The eco-line of shoes includes a complete line of glueless models made of recycled materials which is very nice.  The styling and quality is impressive for a “green” shoe.

On the Gear side of things they have also come up with a ripstop WOOL backpack that will compete perfectly well with the best nylon packs.  It was amazing, beautiful and tough.  Wool, being very sustainable is an excellent choice of materials and completely eliminates the issues of petrochemicals, off gassing and pthalates.  Nice!

As you know, I tend to focus more on those companies making a difference from the beginning.  Those who were green from the start and have always made a difference.  In the case of North Face I see a lot of good in the future and give them credit for quality products and great green changes.