The North Face was founded by Douglas Tompkins and Kenneth Klopp in San Francisco CA in 1968, and is owned by VF corporation. VF also owns Timberland, Wrangler jeans, Jansport, and many more companies. The north side of the mountain is generally the coldest and hardest route to take to the peak So the products produced are protective to these conditions. The hiking gear and outerwear from the north face is designed not only to protect against harsh conditions, but to look stylish as well. The name was changed to north face two years after opening a hiking equipment store in California. Even if your not an avid hiker and just need everyday jackets and clothes The North Face is still for you. Over the years The North Face has been in high demand to almost every store that carries the products in the united states, Canada, and Australia.