Penfield
Massachusetts maker of down jackets and mountain parkas. The bear-in-a-P logo, then the mountain graphic, and 'Made in U.S.A.' wording date its pieces.
- Origin
- USA
- Founded
- 1975
- Category
- Outdoor & Heritage
- Documented eras
- 4
How Penfield labels evolved over time. Match the markers below against the tag in hand to place a garment in its era.
1980–1989
Bear-Logo 'Trailwear' Tags
Simple clean tags with 'Penfield' branding and the bear logo — rectangular, often dark grounds with contrasting text, some carrying 'For Life In The Open' or 'Trailwear'.
- Simple, clean design with “Penfield” branding and bear logo.
- Rectangular tags, often with dark backgrounds and contrasting text.
- Some tags include the tagline “For Life In The Open” or “Trailwear.”
How to spot it
The bear-in-a-P logo, sometimes 'Trailwear'.
Value signal
Strong; 80s USA-made Penfield is a sought era.
1990–1999
'Made in U.S.A' Bear Tags
Tags keep the bear logo and 'Penfield' branding — rectangular with bold clear lettering, often prominently 'Made in U.S.A'.
- Retains the bear logo and “Penfield” branding.
- Tags are rectangular with bold, clear lettering.
- Often features the “Made in U.S.A” text prominently.
How to spot it
The bear logo with prominent 'Made in U.S.A'.
Value signal
Solid; USA-made 90s Penfield down jackets sell well.
2000–2009
'Since 1975' Modernised Tags
A modernised look with cleaner fonts and brighter colours, rectangular tags often with the bear logo and 'Rugged Outdoor Apparel Since 1975'.
- Modernized look with cleaner fonts and more vivid colors.
- Tags are rectangular and often include the bear logo.
- Includes additional information like “Rugged Outdoor Apparel Since 1975.”
How to spot it
The bear logo with 'Rugged Outdoor Apparel Since 1975'.
Value signal
Common; condition-driven resale.
2010–2019
Varied 'Open' Tags
Modern designs in varied layouts and materials keep the bear logo, often carrying 'For Life In The Open' or 'Penfield Manufacturing Co.'
- Modern design with a variety of layouts and materials.
- Uses different colors and fonts while maintaining the bear logo.
- Tags often include “For Life In The Open” or “Penfield Manufacturing Co.”
How to spot it
Varied modern tags with the bear logo.
Value signal
Modern; priced on the piece.