60/40 111 Parka

I probably read the phrase “60/40” for the first time on the inside label of an old North Face ski jacket. It had been washed 300 times, and felt more like an old pillowcase than a proper piece of outdoor gear. It was faded and raggedy, probably hadn’t really been waterproof in 25 years, and it was perfect.

In this context, 60/40 generally refers to a blend of cotton and Nylon. As far as I know, it was first brought to market in the late 60’s by Sierra Designs. The parka design itself went on to inspire countless variations, including our own 111 Parka.

60/40 is the defining fabric of the early American outdoors boom, helping keep you comfortable across a wide variety of conditions.

Gore Tex, the first PTFE backed, 2-layer waterproof/breathable technical fabric came along in the next decade and everything changed for better and worse. Laminated fabrics block out the rain, but breathability and comfort really takes a major hit. 

The tech-obsessed gear-heads moved on, but vintage 60/40 jackets have retained a serious cult following. There’s something magic in the formula. You won’t mistake their performance for a modern rain jacket, but they feel great 95% of the time. The hand, drape, and soft sheen are unique to this fabric, and they wear in beautifully over the long haul.

We’ve been increasingly interested in working with natural fibers, thinking hard about the total lifecycle of our products, and gravitating back to the heritage gear that inspired us in the first place.

Out of mainline production for several years now, we’re re-introducing our 111 Parka, this time sewn from beautiful new fabrics woven in Japan. These parkas retain the best features of our classic design- including its functional full-cut fit, 3-way adjustable hood and signature pocketing scheme.

Made to keep you more comfortable, more of the time.

Cut and sewn right here in New York City’s Garment District.

love,

owner/operators

Pete and Steven