Which entrepreneur founded Patagonia in 1973?

Yvon Chouinard founded Patagonia in 1973.

Chouinard began as a climber and blacksmith who made reusable climbing hardware for himself and friends. His early business, Chouinard Equipment, became known for climbing tools, including pitons and later removable protection designed to reduce damage to rock.

He founded Patagonia to make technical outdoor clothing for climbers and other outdoor users. The company’s name refers to Patagonia, the region at the southern end of South America, which Chouinard associated with wild landscapes and adventure.

Patagonia became notable for environmental campaigns, repair programs, and recycled or organic materials. In 2022, ownership was transferred to a purpose structure intended to direct the company’s profits toward fighting the climate crisis.