Yvon Chouinard is an iconic American rock climber, environmentalist, and entrepreneur, best known as the founder of Patagonia, the outdoor apparel and gear company renowned for its commitment to sustainability and climate action.
Born on November 9, 1938, in Lewiston, Maine (now 87 years old as of 2026), Chouinard grew up in Southern California after his family moved there. He developed a passion for the outdoors early on—starting with falconry as a teen in 1953 and then rock climbing in places like Yosemite. A self-taught blacksmith, he began forging his own climbing gear in the late 1950s because existing tools damaged the rock faces he loved. This led to innovations in "clean climbing" (using removable protection like chocks instead of pitons that scarred cliffs), and eventually to founding Chouinard Equipment (which later became Black Diamond after a pivot).
In the 1970s, he expanded into clothing, launching Patagonia in 1973 (officially incorporated then, though roots trace back earlier). The company grew into a billion-dollar brand emphasizing high-quality, durable outdoor wear while pioneering environmental responsibility—such as donating 1% of sales to environmental causes via 1% for the Planet (co-founded by Chouinard).
Chouinard has long described himself as a "reluctant capitalist" or even a "dirtbag" (someone who lives simply to pursue adventure), prioritizing simplicity, nature, and impact over wealth. He's authored books like Let My People Go Surfing (a business manifesto blending philosophy, climbing, and sustainability) and Some Stories.
His most radical move came in September 2022: At age 83, he and his family transferred ownership of Patagonia (valued at ~$3 billion) to a trust (Patagonia Purpose Trust, holding voting stock to protect values) and a nonprofit called the Holdfast Collective (owning non-voting stock). This structure ensures that all profits not reinvested in the business—roughly $100 million annually—are directed to fighting the environmental crisis, protecting biodiversity, and supporting communities. Chouinard explicitly said he didn't want to sell or go public, as that might dilute the mission, and he forfeited billionaire status to make "Earth our only shareholder."
In recent years (as of late 2025 into 2026), Chouinard remains active despite his age. In a November 2025 update via Patagonia's Work in Progress Report, he noted he's "working harder than an 87-year-old should" because "the planet is in bad shape." He continues advocating for bold climate action, influencing policy, conservation, and business models that prioritize the environment over endless growth.
Chouinard's legacy is huge in climate philanthropy: Patagonia under his vision (and now the Holdfast Collective) has donated hundreds of millions to environmental causes, sued governments over public lands, and inspired countless companies to adopt more responsible practices. He's often called one of the most influential figures in blending business with planetary protection.
If you'd like details on his books, specific Patagonia initiatives, recent statements, or anything else related, just let me know!