Patagonia
Founded by rock climber Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia started as a climbing equipment company. In 2022, Chouinard donated ownership to a trust ensuring all profits go toward addressing climate change. The company is renowned for its Ironclad Guarantee lifetime warranty.
Quick Facts
Founded
1973
Headquarters
Ventura, California
Country
USA
Warranty
Lifetime (Ironclad)
Why Patagonia is Buy It For Life
Patagonia's Ironclad Guarantee provides lifetime product guarantees covering defects in materials and workmanship. Their Worn Wear program repairs and resells used gear, or repurposes scraps into new products. They offer lifetime repairs, garment recycling programs, and free repairs at any Patagonia store.
Brand Story
Yvon Chouinard started making climbing pitons in 1957. In 1970, he launched Chouinard Equipment for mountaineering gear. In 1973, he expanded into outdoor clothing under the Patagonia brand. The name comes from the region at the southern end of South America, chosen for its remote wilderness.
Warranty Details
The Patagonia Ironclad Guarantee covers all products for their lifetime against defects in materials and workmanship. If your Patagonia product falls short, return it for repair, replacement, or refund. Patagonia will also repair damage from wear and tear at a reasonable cost.
Repair Program
Patagonia offers free repairs for manufacturing defects. For wear and tear damage, they charge reasonable repair fees (often $15-75 depending on the repair). Repairs are done at their Reno, Nevada repair facility or at select retail stores. You can also request a prepaid shipping label online.
Sustainability
In 2022, Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard transferred company ownership to the Patagonia Purpose Trust and Holdfast Collective, ensuring all profits go toward fighting climate change. The company uses recycled materials in most products and runs the Worn Wear program for trading in used gear.
Notable Products
Nano Puff Jacket
Better Sweater Fleece
Black Hole Bags
R1 Daily Fleece
Torrentshell Rain Jacket
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Patagonia lifetime warranty cover?
The Patagonia Ironclad Guarantee covers all products against defects in materials and workmanship for the lifetime of the product. This includes stitching failures, zipper malfunctions, fabric defects, and manufacturing errors. Damage from normal wear and tear or accidents is not covered under the lifetime warranty, but Patagonia offers repair services at reasonable costs.
How do I make a Patagonia warranty claim?
To file a Patagonia warranty claim, visit patagonia.com/returns and request a free shipping label. Send the item to their Reno, Nevada repair facility. You can also bring items to any Patagonia retail store for assessment. No receipt is required for warranty claims. Most repairs are completed within 4-6 weeks.
Is Patagonia worth the price?
Patagonia is worth the higher price for most buyers due to their lifetime warranty, exceptional durability, and repair services. Products like the Nano Puff and Better Sweater routinely last 10-20+ years with proper care. The combination of quality construction, lifetime repairs, and strong resale value on the Worn Wear marketplace makes Patagonia products a genuine buy it for life investment.
What is the Patagonia Worn Wear program?
Worn Wear is Patagonia's repair and resale program. You can trade in used Patagonia gear for store credit, buy pre-owned Patagonia items at reduced prices, or send items for repair. The program helps extend product lifecycles and reduces waste. Worn Wear items come with the same Ironclad Guarantee as new products.
How long does a Patagonia jacket last?
A well-cared-for Patagonia jacket typically lasts 10-20+ years. Popular models like the Nano Puff and Better Sweater are known for exceptional longevity. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and using Patagonia's repair services when needed can extend the lifespan even further. Many customers report using the same Patagonia jacket for 15-25 years.
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