Frequently Asked Questions

At Alpine Nation, every piece of gear is meticulously designed from scratch, embodying our commitment to quality, functionality, and style. We are not merely a dropshipping brand; we take pride in our comprehensive approach to product development. This process encompasses everything from the initial fit and design concept, to the selection of materials and integration of technical features tailored to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.

Our design process begins with a deep understanding of what our customers need from their outdoor clothing — whether it's resilience to weather, mobility, comfort, or sustainability. Each product's journey from concept to creation is marked by careful consideration and innovation.

We craft many prototypes for each new product, testing and refining the design repeatedly. This rigorous development process ensures that every item offers the best possible fit and performance. It's not just about meeting expectations but exceeding them, ensuring that every piece of clothing we create stands up to the challenges of the great outdoors.

This dedication to design excellence means that when you choose Alpine Nation, you are choosing a product crafted with passion and precision, designed to support your adventures in every way possible.

The majority of our products (90%) are proudly manufactured within Europe, while the remainder are produced in Pakistan. We ensure transparency by clearly indicating the country of origin on each product page. Should you require further details about the manufacturing processes or the origins of any item, our customer service team is readily available to assist you.

We source the majority of our materials from Italy and Spain, renowned for their high-quality textile production. These materials are selected for their superior performance characteristics, ensuring that they meet the rigorous demands of outdoor activities and provide exceptional durability, comfort, and functionality.

We are committed to ethical and sustainable practices, which is why we choose to work with factories within the European Union. These facilities are subject to strict labor regulations, which include ensuring fair wages for workers and maintaining a safe and pleasant work environment. By adhering to these standards, we support the well-being of the individuals who help bring our products to life.

The price of our products reflects the premium quality of the materials we use. At Alpine Nation, we are dedicated to crafting gear that embodies the best possible quality. We believe in creating products that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our customers in every aspect, from performance to ethical production practices.

Choosing the right size and fit for clothing and gear is crucial for comfort, performance, and satisfaction with your purchase. To ensure you select the right size and fit, we recommend the following steps:

1. Consult the Size Charts

Typically, the product page on our website features a size chart (found under the link “What’s my size”) that provides a guide to choosing the correct size. Remember, sizing can vary between different styles and types of clothing, so it's always a good idea to check the specific chart for each item you're interested in.

Additionally, on some product pages, we provide a fit guide that indicates whether the product runs true to size, small or large. 

2. Understand the Fit Types

We offer products in various fits, such as slim, regular, and relaxed. Each fit is designed to meet different needs and preferences:

Slim Fit: Closely follows the body's shape for a sleek, streamlined look. Ideal for layering under other pieces.

Regular Fit: Offers a balance of comfort and style with a design that's not too tight and not too loose.

Relaxed Fit: Provides maximum comfort and roominess.

3. Read Customer Reviews

Customer reviews can offer valuable insights into how a product fits, feels, and performs. Look for comments related to sizing— different people have different bodies, and fellow customers often share their experiences to help others choose correctly.

4. Consider the Purpose and Layering

Think about how you plan to use the item and whether you'll need to layer clothes underneath it. For outdoor activities that require multiple layers, you may want to size up to accommodate base layers and insulating layers comfortably.

5. Contact Customer Service

If you're still unsure, our customer service team is here to help. Provide them with your measurements and any specific needs or concerns you have, and they can offer tailored advice. 

Remember, the right fit should feel comfortable and suit the intended use of the clothing or gear, whether it's for everyday wear, outdoor adventures, or specific activities like climbing, skiing, or running.

Every product you purchase comes with specific care instructions attached, and it's always best to refer to these for optimal maintenance. However, we generally advise the following practices for garment care:

• Machine Wash Cold: To prevent shrinkage and maintain the fabric's integrity, wash your garments in cold water, not exceeding a temperature of 30°C (86°F).
• Wash Inside Out: Invert your garments before washing to protect the external surface from wear and minimize pilling.
• Gentle Cycle: Opt for a gentle washing cycle with a spin speed no higher than 1000 rpm to lessen the stress on the fabric.
• Avoid Fabric Softeners: Steer clear of using fabric softeners, as they can gradually deteriorate the quality of the material.

We strive to minimize our environmental impact by producing our products as locally as possible. For approximately 90% of our products, this means manufacturing within a 500km radius, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting materials and finished goods.

While we aim to keep production local, there are rare instances—accounting for about 10% of our product range—where we must rely on suppliers from Asia to meet specific needs that cannot be addressed within our local network.

We also prioritize the use of sustainable materials. Wherever possible, we utilize fabrics that are certified by bluesign®. The bluesign® system is the gold standard for environmentally friendly and sustainable textile production. It ensures that along the entire production chain, from fiber to finished product, the textiles meet rigorous environmental and safety standards, promoting safer working conditions and reduced impact on both people and the planet.

However, it's important to acknowledge that every new product has an environmental cost, and no product can be 100% sustainable. This is why we focus on creating high-quality, durable products that stand the test of time. We believe that the most sustainable approach is to produce items that last, encouraging consumers to buy better and wear longer. This philosophy not only supports environmental sustainability but also provides our customers with better value for their investment.

Alpine Nation stands out in the outdoor clothing industry by focusing exclusively on women. The outdoor gear market has traditionally been dominated by products designed primarily for men, with many brands adopting a "pink it and shrink it" approach when creating women's gear. This method involves simply making smaller, pink versions of men's products without considering the distinct needs of women.

Our approach to designing outdoor gear is fundamentally different. It is focused on the unique needs of women. For example, we understand that women often feel cold more quickly than men, so we prioritize warmth in our products. We recognize that women's skin can be more sensitive to abrasive materials, prompting us to select fabrics that are gentle yet durable. The placement and design of pockets are thoughtfully adjusted to enhance both comfort and functionality, tailored to women's preferences. 

Beyond functionality, we also ensure that our gear is both flattering and stylish, meeting the aesthetic demands of our customers. This holistic consideration of women's specific needs drives our design process, setting us apart in the outdoor apparel industry. By engineering our products solely for women, we address these unique needs directly. 

Moreover, as a direct-to-consumer brand, we sell our products exclusively through our own channels and not via retailers. This model allows us to maintain a close relationship with our customers, gather feedback directly, and rapidly incorporate this input into continually evolving product lines. This direct interaction ensures that we are always tuned in to what our customers need and want, helping us serve you better and craft gear that truly meets your outdoor adventure needs.