A man wearing a Greenland Jacket standing on a rocky overlook.

Fjällräven Greenland Jackets and Clothing: 50 Years of Outdoor Excellence

May 4, 2018

In 1968, a 32-year-old Åke Nordin produced his first Fjällräven jacket. He called it the Greenland Jacket. It was made with his new G-1000 material (“G” standing for Greenland) that was waxed with his own wax, Greenland Wax. The story starts two years previously, when Greenland was the destination for a team of Scandinavian alpinists and researchers who needed some gear before setting off. Step forward the industrious Fjällräven founder, Åke Nordin, who offered them his aluminium-framed backpacks and new Thermo tents. Though at that time he didn’t have any clothing to contribute, so the team relied upon the materials of the time, boiled wool and leather. The team survived and the mission was a success, though their clothing had let them down, having been heavy, slow-drying and lacking resistance to the harsh Greenland climate.

Åke saw this as a challenge to create the perfect all-round outdoor adventure jacket. A jacket that kept you warm and dry, that wouldn’t wear out or weigh you down. A material quickly presented itself. A material Åke had experimented with before when creating his tents. He’d initially been ruled out. But with some tweaking and treatment, it could work as jacket material. Åke went back to the drawing board and tested a range of materials and impregnations. Though initially stumped, he suddenly had a brainwave. In his youth, Åke and his friends had tried ski jumping, where they’d spend many an hour hanging out at the huge Swoosh-shaped slope in Örnsköldsvik (his home town on Sweden’s High Coast). To avoid freezing their behinds off, they waxed the backs of their trousers to keep the snow out, their trousers dry and their behinds warm. Åke used this idea to develop Greenland Wax. And this wax offered the wind and water resistance he was looking for. It even improved the material’s durability.

With the material and impregnation sorted, he then set about creating his perfect outdoor jacket, complete with practical pockets and a relaxed, loose fit. In continued honour of the research mission that inspired it, Åke called this jacket the Greenland Jacket. The rest, as they say, is history. The Greenland Jacket, launched in 1968, went on to enable a whole generation of nature lovers to spend more time outdoors and is now one of Fjällräven’s most iconic products, second only to their Kånken backpack.

Having reached this landmark of 50 years, Fjällräven are celebrating with the release of a brand new Greenland collection, inspired by the original jacket. The latest collection builds on the classic range, staying true to the look and feel of the originals, but evolving even further to ensure that this new generation of garments and accessories is made in a sustainable and environmentally conscious way.

By Neil Summers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What recycling programs support Fjällräven Greenland Clothing?

Fjällräven’s Garment Collection initiative allows customers to return old Fjällräven garments, including Greenland Jackets, for recycling or reuse. Launched in 2011, it has collected over 10,000 garments (approximately 10 tons total) in its decade-long run, supporting sustainable practices, as verified by Fjällräven’s 2021 sustainability report.

How are Greenland Jackets tested for durability?

Greenland Jackets are tested for durability in Fjällräven’s Stockholm lab, where they undergo rigorous tests simulating harsh weather conditions, including cold and wind, to ensure G-1000 fabric withstands extreme environments. These tests, lasting weeks, are part of their quality assurance process.

What inspired the initial design of Fjällräven’s Greenland clothing range?

The Greenland clothing range, including jackets, was inspired by a 1966 Scandinavian expedition to Greenland, where Åke Nordin’s team faced inadequate clothing. Their struggle with heavy, slow-drying materials prompted Nordin to develop durable, weather-resistant gear, launching the range in 1968, as documented in Fjällräven’s historical overview on their official site.

What certifications do Greenland Jackets hold for eco-friendliness?

Greenland Jackets use G-1000 fabric, known for durability, aligning with Fjällräven’s sustainability efforts. They do not carry specific eco-certifications like the EU Ecolabel, but the company’s commitment is outlined in their annual sustainability reports, focusing on long-lasting products.

How often should Greenland Wax be reapplied to jackets?

Greenland Wax should be reapplied as needed, typically every 6-12 months for regular use, or more frequently if exposed to heavy rain or harsh conditions. Fjällräven recommends using their wax block to maintain water resistance, ensuring the jacket’s longevity, as per their care guide.

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