Napapijri: The Spirit of Exploration Meets Modern Style
Napapijri is a brand that defies your expectations. Founded in the shadow of Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak. Napa is an Italian brand which has established itself as an icon of technical outerwear. The brand fuses functionality with street style, that speaks to both adventurers and trendsetters.
A Heritage Rooted in Travel and Exploration
Napapijri’s history began in 1987 when an Italian bag manufacturer reimagined outdoor gear under the name “Napapijri”. Which is a variation of the Finnish word for the Arctic Circle. The brand’s logo is a mix of the Norwegian flag and they make use of polar motif. These nods are to the spirit of Nordic exploration and extreme environments.
This sense of adventure remains central to Napapijri’s identity. Every collection is designed with movement, durability, and adaptability in mind.
Key questions about NAPA answered ...
How do you pronounce Napapijri?
Napapijri is pronounced “na-pa-PEE-ree,” with a silent “J.” The brand name is inspired by the Finnish word Napapiiri, which means “Arctic Circle.” This original spelling gives a better sense of the pronunciation—particularly the longer “-pee-” sound in the third syllable, sometimes heard with a soft, breathy “H” (similar to how some say “mojito”).
It’s common for English speakers to pronounce the “J” in Napapijri, but the brand embraces the variety of pronunciations around the world—that global flexibility reflects its adventurous spirit. Still, if you’re aiming for accuracy, just remember: it’s na-pa-PEE-ree.
What does Napapijri mean?
he name Napapijri is derived from the Finnish word napapiiri, which translates to “Arctic Circle.” In Finnish, “napa” refers to the pole (as in polar regions), and “piiri” means circle or boundary.
Napa chose this word as it reflected its strong connection to exploration and its spirit of adventure.Although the spelling was altered, the pronunciation still mirrors the original Finnish word, keeping its northern inspiration intact.
Why does Napapijri use the Norwegian flag?
Whilst Napapijri is an Italian brand with a Finnish name, unusually the Norwegian flag is proudly featured in its branding. This is in tribute to Norway’s legendary history of exploration. It is a symbolic nod great polar pioneers of Norway, most notably, Roald Amundsen, who led the first successful expedition to the South Pole in 1911.
A legacy of exploration dates back to the Viking era. Norse seafarers travelled to the UK, France, Spain, North Africa, and even as far as Newfoundland in Canada. Their fearless spirit carried through to modern polar adventurers like Fridtjof Nansen. Nansen crossed Greenland almost reaching the North Pole in the 1890s.
Napapijri embraces this heritage as part of its identity. The brand’s outerwear is designed with both functionality and a sense of discovery. Drawing on innovations like the Inuit-invented parka, Napapijri’s clothing celebrates the human drive to explore the unknown whilst promoting environmental awareness and respect for the natural world.
What country is Napapijri from?
Napapijri was founded and is headquartered in Italy. With a Finnish-inspired name, a Norwegian flag logo, and origins tied to the alpine environment of Mont Blanc on the French–Italian border. Napapijri embodies an international mindset rooted in exploration and adventure.
The brand was established in 1987 by entrepreneur Giuliana Rosset, initially focusing on high quality travel bags. One of its earliest and most iconic creations was the Bering duffle bag, was named after Arctic explorer Vitus Bering. The Bering bag remains in production and is a customer favourite. In the 1990s Napapijri expanded into clothing, launching lines like the Skidoo jacket in 1990 and the Rainforest jacket in 1995.
Since then, the brand has continued to evolve, adding footwear, children’s clothing, and a growing line of accessories. In 1997, Napapijri opened its first retail store in Chamonix, France, at the base of Mont Blanc—symbolically returning to the landscape that first inspired its blend of style and function.
Function Meets Fashion
Napapijri sets itself apart through its ability to combine high-performance design with modern style. Iconic styles like the Rainforest Jacket, showcase the brands ability for creating functional outerwear that doesn’t sacrifice on design. Featuring weatherproof fabrics, practical features like side zips and adjustable hoods, and bold logo, the Rainforest is a streetwear staple now more commonly seen on the streets of London or Paris than up a mountain.
The brand offers modern silhouettes, clean lines, and seasonal colours that keep their range current. Napapijri’s designs feel considered and current, regardless if its a lightweight anorak, a fleece pullover, or a padded parka.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Napapijri has a growing number of environmentally conscious consumers - not least as many of its customers are those who enjoy hiking and mountain climbing. It has made significant strides to reducing its environmental footprint and sources materials responsibly.
The Napa Infinity Jacket features recycled materials and is designed to be fully disassembled and reused at the end of its life.
Napapijri is a pioneer in down-free insulation, replacing traditional down feathers with Thermo-Fibre™
Versatile Appeal for Modern Lifestyles
Napa is a brand that is as comfortable on a mountain trail as it is in your local coffee shop. This versatility has been key to its growing popularity.
Beyond outerwear, Napapijri delivers a strong range of bags, and clothing. From practical backpacks and crossbody bags to graphic tees, and sweatshirts, the brand offers everything a stylish and functional look.
Each piece offers quality construction, attention to detail, and a spirit of exploration.
Napapijri is not just an outdoor brand - it is a symbol of modern adventure, responsible design, and effortless style. At The Foot Factory, we offer a huge range of Napa clothing and accessories that can be shipped worldwide.
