One of the go-to brands to discover the great outdoors with, Arc’teryx has been synonymous with outstanding quality and forward-thinking design for more than three decades already. It, in fact, was before SoHo kids left mountaineers irritated with compliments for the latter’s outfits. And the label’s spearheading status most likely won’t change either, given the mentality that Arc’teryx seems to share with a certain hip hop classic: Don’t believe the hype, that is.
The Vancouver-based brand that first started out under the name ‘Rock Solid’ in 1989 before changing its name to Arc’teryx, selling high-functioning gear like harnesses and backpacks, quickly became a fan-favorite amongst outdoor enthusiasts. Their commitment to reliability and craftmanship didn’t go unnoticed by other subcultural circles though: Arc’teryx apparel became a status symbol amongst graffiti artists and skaters, thanks to its heavy-wearing quality and limited availability, with the label’s colorful and waterproof jackets being one of the most popular items.
However, just as unagitated as Arc’teryx’s designs sometimes are, the company was and still is when it comes to attention: when the late Virgil Abloh had the Hadid sisters model in hacked-up Arc’teryx jackets at Off-White™’s F/W 2020 runway show, Arc’teryx didn’t try to capitalize on it. Quite the contrary, they released a statement that the Arc’teryx jackets and harnesses were used without permission. Mic Drop.
“The moment we pivot and try to address the streetwear world, we’ll totally lose it.”
Dan Green, Arc’teryx VP of Design
Instead of losing their minds over new followers, the brand has been minding their own business – as always – and continues to work on solid rock (pun intended) gear for rock climbing, skiing, and running in their Canada headquarters right next to their very own ARC’ONE manufacturing hub. Maybe, this non-chalant refusal of attention is the currency that Arc’teryx heads as different as the late Harold Hunter, David Letterman, your favorite rapper, or countless mountaineers all count on: authenticity and quality.
A hand-picked selection of jackets, fleeces, shoes, and hoodies by Arc’teryx is available at BSTN: Pick up your favorite via the button below!
