USA – Few companies have mastered the art of technical fashion and function like 66°North, now in their 80th season. 66°North was the brainchild of Hans Kristjansson who began producing protective clothing for the fisherman of Sugandafjord in 1926. Initially, Kristjansson focused solely on fisherman’s smocks and specialized sea hats known as Sou-Westers. Quality was of paramount importance, as the livelihood of Icelandic fisherman depended on their ability to battle the elements while attempting to secure boatloads of cod from the cold waters of the Atlantic. As the company expanded, lessons learned from the outfitting of fisherman were used to develop work wear for farmers, construction laborers and other village workers. Fast forward 80 years from these humble beginnings and you’ll find 66°North at the forefront of high-tech outerwear design and production in Iceland. The company is so popular in its native land that many Icelander view it as the national brand. In celebration of 80 years of warmth, enter 2007 with 66°North’s limited-edition plaid Thorsmork Parka. Guaranteed to keep those warm for another 80 years. Already on backorder in the countries finest stores, this exceptionally warm best-seller is constructed of high-quality 70/30 goose down lining and consists of rugged, waterproof Sixtex fabric that allows moisture to pass through, all the while blocking rain and snow. With fully taped waterproof seams, you are guaranteed to stay cozy and fashionable come winter season. For an exclusive preview of the 66°NORTH 2006 collection or to schedule an interview with 66°North Iceland, President, Sharon Prince, interested media please contact Workhouse Publicity, Stephanie Sachs or Kara Hughett via email at Stephanie Sachs at stephanie@workhousepr.com or kara@workhousepr.com

Challenge Your Inner Explorer
In true glacial form, comfort is extreme with a detachable fur-lined hood deep enough to protect you from the unpredictable weather. Challenge your inner explorer by storing anything from gloves to your latest MP3 player in the convenient and spacious two front pockets, which hides an inside security pocket to store your wallet. With the snap of a button you can rest assured that you are ready to tackle whatever conditions you may face this season. From the remote towns of Iceland to the trendy streets of New York, both men and women can find sanctuary in the Thorsmork’ssuperior characteristics. Available in white or brown plaid, keep warm with distinctive Icelandic style.  

Since 1926, 66°North has manufactured clothing for agricultural and construction work, seamen’s apparel and protective gear of many kinds as well as clothing for outdoor and leisure activities which has developed into the brand’s fastest growing export line. Among 66°North’s most energetic researchers are extreme athletes and Icelandic Search and Rescue teams (ICE-SAR), bands of brave men and women trained to work under extreme conditions at sea and on land, who have gained fame for their daring exploits. 66°North outfits them with the latest, most advanced gear and they test it and report what works well and what needs improvement. Akin to ICE-SAR, the renowned Mt. Washington Ski Patrol is now outfitted by 66°North, extending their testing ground in the U.S. Windproof, waterproof, new breathable materials, many kinds of fleece and other textiles undergo tough, real-life tests in this real-life laboratory. 66°North produces a line of technical outerwear, mid-layer, base layer and accessories for men, women and children. Their hallmark is the brands trim-fitting, minimalist designs which have to satisfy the demanding Icelandic consumer.

66°North Iceland
Established in 1926, 66°North is considered the national clothing brand of Iceland. For over 79 years, 66°North has been at the forefront of high-tech outerwear with a collection of durable, form-fitted garments. One of the most trusted and proven brands of protective wear in Europe, each item is perfected through rigorous testing by Icelandic rescue teams, parents dressing their kids for school as well as fit, fashionable Icelanders themselves.T he brainchild of Hans Kristjansson, 66°North began producing protective clothing for the commercial fisherman of Sugandafjord, quality and performance has always been essential to Icelanders who have learned to co-exist harmoniously with nature’s extremes. The name reflects the latitude line located at the edge of the Arctic Circle. Iceland, on the borderline of the Arctic Circle, has often been considered on the very edge of civilization. Conditions can be extreme and Icelanders have had to develop both the mentality to meet the challenges and the physical means to do so. This includes discovering and developing suitable clothing for work and travel in all kinds of weather, from fishermen to sheep herders to citizens walking the streets of Reykjavik. Centuries of battling snowstorms and the windy heights to bring home sheep and fighting heavy seas to haul in rich catches of fish have evolved into a brand that, for over 80 years, has been the premier clothier for the people of Iceland – attesting to its style, quality, and functionality. Rather than add superfluous features, they prefer to incorporate only what is necessary for peak performance. Modern materials such as eVENT, Entrant GII-DT, Schoeller and Polartec provide the utmost protection. The garments insulate while keeping a comfortable, dry microenvironment next to the skin. Children’s wear is designed to match the quality of the high performance adults wear because Icelandic children live and play outside all of the time both in good and bad weather. As they say, there is no bad weather, if you have the right gear. Available at Cole Sport, Hickory & Tweed, Urban Outfitters, Fred Segal and fine stores everywhere. For more information please visit www.66northus.com.