Penfield, a renowned outdoor clothing brand, has been a staple in the American wardrobe since its inception in 1975. Founded by Harvey Gross in Hudson, Massachusetts, Penfield quickly built a reputation for producing high-quality, down-filled jackets, fleece, and outerwear. With its roots firmly planted in New England, the brand harnessed the region’s rugged charm and commitment to durable craftsmanship, becoming synonymous with reliable and stylish outdoor apparel. Over the decades, Penfield’s products have graced the shelves of prestigious retailers like Barneys and Saks, as well as countless independent stores worldwide, solidifying its position in both mainstream and niche markets.

The brand’s journey from a local manufacturer to a global name is a testament to its enduring appeal and innovative spirit. In the 1980s, Penfield captured the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike, blending technical fabrics with Ivy League aesthetics. This unique fusion not only catered to the practical needs of adventurers but also appealed to the stylistic sensibilities of urban dwellers. The brand’s collaborations and private label developments further expanded its reach, bringing its signature down-filled garments to a broader audience through partnerships with iconic names like LL Bean and Lands End.

Penfield’s rich history is not just reflected in its clothing but also in its evolving logos and tags, which serve as markers of different eras. From the bear-emblazoned designs of the 1970s to the sleek, minimalist logos of today, each iteration tells a story of the brand’s growth and adaptation to changing fashion trends. These logos and tags are crucial for vintage enthusiasts looking to authenticate and date their Penfield pieces, providing a visual timeline of the brand’s development.

Understanding the nuances of Penfield’s logos and tags is essential for anyone interested in vintage fashion. By examining these details, collectors can pinpoint the era of their garments, adding a layer of historical context to their wardrobe. Whether it’s the intricate illustrations of the 1970s tags or the bold, clear lettering of the 1990s, each design element offers insights into the brand’s legacy. As Penfield continues to evolve, its past remains a vibrant part of its identity, celebrated by vintage clothing enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike.

Penfield X Baartmans and Siegel AW14 Collaboration

How to tell if Penfield is vintage from the logo

Known for its durable and stylish outdoor clothing, Penfield has a rich history that can be traced through its evolving logo designs. Identifying whether a Penfield item is vintage can be done by examining the logo used on the product. Over the decades, Penfield’s logo has undergone several changes, reflecting shifts in branding and design trends. By understanding these changes, you can accurately determine the era of your Penfield clothing. Here is a breakdown of the Penfield logos from different periods:

1980s to 2000s Penfield logo

• The early Penfield logo prominently features a stylized bear within the letter “P”.
• It includes the text “Penfield” in a rounded, lowercase font.
• The logo often includes the tagline “Massachusetts, USA” underneath the main text.
• The background design incorporates a red zigzag line, symbolizing mountains or wilderness.

2000s Penfield logo

• This version of the logo features a more refined and modern look.
• The bear symbol is removed, replaced by a mountain graphic that covers the entire width of the logo.
• The text “Penfield” is in a more blocky, uppercase font.
• Additional text, such as “UTILITY• STRENGTH • DURABILITY” and “MANUFACTURING CO”, is included, emphasizing the brand’s focus on quality and durability.

2010s to now Penfield logo

• The most recent logo iteration retains the mountain graphic but simplifies it to a more minimalist design.
• The text “Penfield” is now in a clean, sans-serif font.
• The overall design is sleeker and more streamlined, reflecting modern design aesthetics.

How to tell if Penfield is vintage from the tags

Penfield, renowned for its rugged outdoor apparel, has a rich history that can be traced through its distinctive tags. Each era of Penfield clothing features unique tag designs that reflect the brand’s evolution and its commitment to quality and durability. From the intricate illustrations of the 1970s to the modern, sleek designs of the 2010s, these tags offer valuable clues for identifying vintage Penfield pieces. Below, we detail the characteristics of Penfield tags from different decades to help you determine the authenticity and era of your Penfield garments.

Need assistance with vintage tags or labels? Upload a picture on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll help you out!

1980s vintage Penfield tags

• Simple, clean design with “Penfield” branding and bear logo.
• Rectangular tags, often with dark backgrounds and contrasting text.
• Some tags include the tagline “For Life In The Open” or “Trailwear.”

1990s vintage Penfield tags

• Retains the bear logo and “Penfield” branding.
• Tags are rectangular with bold, clear lettering.
• Often features the “Made in U.S.A” text prominently.

2000s vintage Penfield tags

• Modernized look with cleaner fonts and more vivid colors.
• Tags are rectangular and often include the bear logo.
• Includes additional information like “Rugged Outdoor Apparel Since 1975.”

2010s vintage Penfield tags

• Modern design with a variety of layouts and materials.
• Uses different colors and fonts while maintaining the bear logo.
• Tags often include “For Life In The Open” or “Penfield Manufacturing Co.”