Back to the NW…

Since being stuck in Seattle over Christmas due to weather, I have had plenty of time to sit back and take my surroundings. I am from the Northwest and have spent my entire life there up until my move to California about a year and a half ago. And other than Seattle Supercross last season, I haven’t returned to my roots once.

While sitting in the airport, and then later walking through downtown Kirkland, I remember the look that has defined Pacific Northwesterners. You know the look, and it spreads far beyond the Northwest I am sure, but it seems most celebrated here.

I’ll break it down for you…

Pants: Carhartt denim; always in some sort of earth tone

Shirt: Tee from some local brewery or fly fishing shop, or a muted button-down from L.L. Bean or REI

Socks: In winter, wool. In summer, wool

Footwear: summer, Chacos or Tevas (with wool socks if possible); winter, Lace-up boots (Vasque, Merrell, etc) or slip-on boots

Headwear: Knit beanie with tassel on top, or cap from same brewery of fly shop on tee

Dog: Labrador with Silverfoot woven collar. leash made from climbing robe and attached with carabiner.

Jacket: Fleece, ski shell, or down jacket from Northface, Marmot, Patagonia, Arc’teryx, or Mountain Hardwear.

Accessories: Suunto Watch with altimeter. daypack from Mountain Gear or one of the companies mentioned above. Nalgene bottle with various stickers from mountaineering or non-profit companies. REI membership card.