One good thing about 2020 is that Eddie Bauer is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. They were founded in 1920, just a few years after other iconic brands like Filson, Orvis, and Carhartt. Unlike those brands, which used old-school waxed canvas, leather, and brass, Eddie Bauer took a different approach, using more technical fabrics and down insulation. In the past 100 years, they patented the first down jacket, helped climbers summit Everest, and became a household name. To celebrate, today they launched the Centennial Collection— a series of apparel that celebrates their original designs but adds modern touches. Here are some highlights.
MicroTherm 1000 Down Jacket
The original MicroTherm was launched in 2011 as part of Eddie Bauer’s First Ascent line of mountaineering gear. The Centennial Collection MicroTherm 1000 is the next generation, featuring 1,000-fill power goose down, that’s quilted to prevent cold spots. Knitted panels in the back, stretch to provide extra mobility, and the entire jacket packs into the zippered chest pocket.
Tech Skyliner Jacket
Many people don’t know that Eddie Bauer actually created the first U.S.-patented down jacket. He called it the Skyliner and it was used by mountaineers, skiers and winter athletes all over the world. These days, the bomber-like styling looks much more at home in the city than the mountains. For the Centennial Collection, they reinvented the iconic piece but with modern touches like an updated fit, nylon shell and responsibly sourced, 800-fill down.
Exploration Jacket
Everyone needs a good rain jacket, and this is Eddie’s original version. It was designed for intrepid travelers but works well for anyone. It has a durable, water-repellent shell infused with spandex for a little stretch. Each of the 10 pockets is purpose-built to hold a specific item: sunglasses, phone, tablet, passport, wallet, water bottle. There’s even an RFID pocket to protect your cards from skimming.
Down Camp Suit
The most fun, albeit slightly novel, piece of the collection is the Down Suit. The original version of this suit actually accompanied the first American expedition to summit Mt. Everest, in 1963. Nowadays it could act as an insulation for winter camping or a cozy layer to don after skiing. No matter what, the 650-fill down and knit collar and cuffs will keep you warm. There’s even a phone pocket on the thigh.
We've put in the work researching, reviewing and rounding up all the shirts, jackets, shoes and accessories you'll need this season, whether it's for yourself or for gifting purposes. Sign up here for weekly style inspo direct to your inbox.
