Yvon Chouinard established Patagonia in 1973 after operating an outdoor-equipment business called Chouinard Equipment.
Chouinard began making climbing equipment in the late 1950s, initially producing tools for his own use and for fellow climbers. As concerns grew about the environmental damage caused by some climbing pitons, his business promoted reusable chocks and other less damaging alternatives. The clothing operation developed alongside the equipment business.
Patagonia’s name was chosen for its association with a remote, rugged region of South America. In 2022, Chouinard transferred ownership of Patagonia to a trust and a nonprofit structure intended to direct profits toward addressing climate change. Patagonia is therefore not simply a clothing label; it grew from a climbing-equipment enterprise.