You can thank Eddie Bauer for your puffer

Creator of the puffer jacket launches in the UK

Two walkers wearing puffa jackets and backpacks walk up big rocks, a snow-dusted rock face blurred behind them

It was in 1936 that outdoor brand Eddie Bauer patented the puffer jacket, and in 2023 the US brand launches in the UK.

Established in 1920, Eddie Bauer founded the brand out of his small sports store in Seattle. His first big product innovation came out of a near-death experience, becoming hypothermic on a fishing trip. And so Bauer became determined to develop cold-weather outerwear. Using knowledge of the down-filled clothing his uncle had described wearing as a soldier, Eddie designed the down-quilted Skyliner.

In 1936, the Skyliner down jacket became the first to be patented in the USA; Eddie Bauer owned the exclusive right to use the quilted diamond pattern for 14 years. The innovation of this jacket was revolutionary for the outdoor industry as a whole, whilst Eddie Bauer became synonymous with down products.

The Skyliner Down Jacket still exists in the range today.

old school patent drawing of a puffa/bomber jacket
black and white photograph of a shop front, Eddie Bauer Sporting Goods, a man in a suit leaving the glass-fronted shop

The decades that followed the initial puffer design saw more innovation for the brand, outfitting many first ascents and becoming the first company to use its logo on US army-issued clothing. Over 100 years later, innovative down technology is still a big part of the company’s product development, alongside creating technical, performance gear as well as ‘lifestyle’ clothing.

Whilst many American’s are aware of the brand, this side of the pond it might be news. So check out the UK website, look out for stores opening soon, and dive in…

Product Highlight

Guide Pro Pants – RRP £90
Guide products are designed and developed in collaboration with outdoor professionals as part of the First Ascent collection. This guide-built programme involves rigorous testing from people who live and work outdoors, so you can be sure Guide legwear has been pushed to the limit and proved to perform.
The best-selling legwear products are available for men and women, with product variations including shorts, zip-offs, joggers, leggings, lined trousers and more. Guide Pro Pants are a staple piece for any outdoor adventurer, features include: lightweight, comfortable, stretchy, durable and water repellent.

Five different coloured pairs of hiking trousers folded in a pile