Napapijri, a brand cloaked in mystery and exploration, offers a blend of enigmatic origins and cultural fusion that appeals to the adventurous spirit in all of us. With a name that’s tricky to master and a logo that speaks to Scandinavian roots, Napapijri stands as a testament to crossing boundaries and challenging conventions. From its humble beginnings crafting bags at the base of Mont Blanc in 1987, the brand has evolved into a global phenomenon with a rich history of drawing inspiration from diverse cultures, climates, and the timeless allure of exploration.

Pronouncing the brand name can be an adventure in itself. Napapijri” is pronounced “na-pa-peeh-ree,” with a silent “J,” derived from the Finnish word “Napapiiri,” meaning Arctic Circle. The pronunciation nods to the polar regions and their cold climates, perfectly embodying the brand’s association with rugged outdoor apparel. The distinctive logo further reinforces this spirit, with its bold geometric font, subtle notches, and symmetric layout reflecting Napapijri’s Scandinavian inspiration and innovative outdoor fashion ethos.

The Norwegian flag present on many Napapijri garments adds another layer to its story. Despite the brand’s Italian headquarters and Finnish name, the flag celebrates the golden age of exploration led by Norway’s pioneers. Figures like Roald Amundsen, who conquered the South Pole, and Fridtjof Nansen, who almost reached the North Pole, represent the daring spirit and polar expertise that continue to inspire Napapijri’s designs. The flag thus embodies a legacy of adventure that resonates deeply with the brand’s ethos.

In blending the past, present, and future, Napapijri honors exploration’s greatest names while constantly innovating its collections. From timeless staples like the Bering duffle bag and Skidoo jacket to the sustainable Circular Series, the brand continues to push boundaries. Napapijri embodies a dedication to design, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology, providing outdoor enthusiasts and style seekers alike with high-quality garments that speak to a global legacy of exploration.

Napapijri ‘Choose Future’ Commercial

How to tell if Napapijri is vintage from the logo

Napapijri, founded in 1987, is known for its high-quality outdoor apparel that blends style with performance. The brand’s logo is an essential identifier, helping vintage enthusiasts and collectors determine the era of their garments. Here’s a guide to identifying a vintage Napapijri logo:

1987 to now Napapijri logo

• The logo contains the brand name “NAPAPIJRI” in a distinctive, geometric font.
• The letters are stretched vertically and enclosed within a rectangular border.
• The logo emphasizes bold typography, with evenly spaced characters that give it a symmetrical and structured appearance.
• The central “A” and “P” feature subtle notches that add a unique character to the design.
• Overall, the logo embodies the brand’s Scandinavian inspiration and innovative approach to outdoor fashion.

1987 to now Napapijri logo

How to tell if Napapijri is vintage from the tags

Napapijri tags have evolved over the years, reflecting shifts in the brand’s identity and production. The following guide will help you identify the approximate era of your Napapijri garment based on the tags attached.

Having difficulty with your vintage labels? Submit a picture on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll help you out!

1990s vintage Napapijri tags

• Square and rectangular tags with “Napapijri” in a bold, serif typeface.
• Often accompanied by descriptors like “Cordura TTX4” and “Teflon HT” for water-repellent and breathable treatment.
• Distinctive color schemes, typically using white, blue, or black backgrounds.
• Occasional illustrations, such as a globe or world map, reflecting the brand’s adventurous spirit.

1990s Napapijri tags

2000s vintage Napapijri tags

• Modern rectangular tags featuring “Napapijri” in bold, serif letters with “geographic” below in smaller text.
• Commonly features extra size tags or indicators, sometimes separate from the main tag.
• Logos sometimes incorporate images like globes or adventure-themed patches.
• Loop tags or woven labels for style consistency, usually in neutral or vibrant colors.

2000s Napapijri tags

2010s vintage Napapijri tags

• Tags with a sleeker, minimalist design retaining the classic Napapijri logo and “geographic” text.
• Variety in background colors, from vibrant orange to darker tones, reflecting different collections.
• Production location often indicated with separate tags like “Made in Turkey.”
• Adventure-oriented illustrations reduced but still present on specific collections.

2010s Napapijri tags