The Anorak

AREAS OF USE
Like all our other products, we have the ambition that you should be able to use this anorak as much as possible, both in summer and winter, and for many, many years. Wear it for skiing, sailing, and in the city with a coffee in hand. It’s lightweight, packs minimally in your backpack, and takes up very little space. Please note that this is not the jacket for harsh weather trips above the treeline. The key focus during the design phase has been to make it simple, classic, and light – and made from 100% natural fibers. This makes it versatile for almost everything: Moisture is transported out faster, and it looks much better than its cousins in plastic material.

MATERIAL
Ventile cotton is legendary for good reason. Before plastic took over everything, Ventile was on top of Everest when it was first climbed in 1953 – just to name one example. The Ventile quality in this anorak is significantly thinner and lighter than the one we use in The Last, but the tightly woven technique provides the same effect: resistant to wind and rain. Since the fabric is so thin, it is naturally more prone to tears and wear, so take care of it. We have the right fabric available and, of course, will help you with repairs if anything happens. Fortunately, part of Ventile’s fame comes from its patina – it ages beautifully!

DETAILS AND FUNCTION
Okay, a small warning. This is an anorak, a jacket without a full-length zipper. Some might find it inconvenient to take on and off. We can agree on that. However, it's a classic, and deserves its place for many reasons. The big pocket is one thing. And the fact that it looks so damn cool might be the most important. But yeah, there's a risk of showing off your belly when you pull it off in the office.

The large pocket can hold at least ten apples if you're going apple picking (we tested it). Inside the pocket, there are three small stash pockets, plus a loop for keys or similar. We also have side pockets for cold or lazy hands. Adjustment mechanisms for the hood and the bottom are included.

Note that you can easily pack the anorak into itself and use it as a pillow.

We've made sure the anorak doesn't have too many details and maintains a simple, classic design. This makes it more timeless, plus fewer parts can break, making it easier to repair.

THE HISTORY
The word "anorak" originates from Inuit languages and is associated with "anore," meaning "wind," and "angulaq," referring to "chewed bird skin." The anorak indeed originated as a traditional garment among the Inuit people. In its earliest forms, it was made of fur, often sealskin, and treated with fish oil to achieve water-resistant properties.

Throughout its rich history, the anorak has been worn by many people for various purposes, from athletes during the 1936 Winter Olympics to politically engaged youth in the 1950s. It has become a classic amongst cross-country skiers and symbolized protest during World War II when the Germans banned its use in Norway. Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay even wore anoraks in Ventile during their first ascent of Mount Everest in 1953.

At Northern Playground, our goal is to create lasting classics – garments that are as relevant today as they will be in 50 years. The anorak represents this goal, as it has stood the test of time and remains highly relevant.

USE MORE +
Planning to keep this product for a long time? Well, we've tried to design it for longevity, but the garment is also entirely dependent on how you contribute. If you take good care of it and repair it when needed, you'll be able to enjoy it for many years. We support you in this through Use More +, a service that includes guidance on repair and maintenance, as well as a free repair for one damage. Read more about Use More + here.

COME IN AND TRY IT ON
We have prototypes of the anorak hanging in the store, which you can come in to try and feel. If it's not visible, just ask one of our staff, and we'll bring it out for you.

Beyond that, you can visit us at Grünerløkka in Oslo (where Markveien crosses Korsgata) to try on other clothes, share your feedback on new products, repair worn garments, see how your products are made, or just have a chat with one of us. More info about the store here. Read more about our store concept here.