30 Years of Pioneering Natural Performance: The icebreaker Legacy

July, 2025 | icebreaker

From a bold NZ startup to global leader - explore icebreaker's 30-year journey revolutionizing outdoor apparel with merino wool. Discover our innovations, sustainability mission, and limited-edition anniversary collection.

Roots in the Southern Alps: Where It All Began

In 1995, a young entrepreneur named Jeremy Moon made a revelation while standing on New Zealand's rugged South Island:

"Why are we making outdoor gear from oil when nature already perfected the solution?"

🔹The First Prototype: A merino wool base layer tested on Pohuenui Island's extreme slopes
🔹Early Believers: NZ mountain guides who needed Odour-resistant, all-weather performance outdoor gear
🔹Breakthrough Moment: Creating the world's first natural layering system inspired by merino sheep biology

Defining Moments: Three Decades of Innovation

The 2000s: Proving Merino's Potential
● 2003: Scaled production to meet global demand
● 2007: Set new industry standards with ZQ animal welfare certification

The 2010s: Technical Advancements
● 2014: Launched Cool-Lite™ blend for tropical climates
● 2016: Introduced 10-year grower contracts for supply chain stability

The 2020s: Sustainability Leadership
● 2020: Pledged 100% plastic-free materials by 2025
● 2023: Expanded global repair and recycling programs

2025: Celebrating 30 Years
● Retro 150 Tech Lite reissue in original 1995 colors - 100% merino fabric for all-natural performance
● Special anniversary edition of the O-zip - an iconic pullover that's been an icebreaker staple since the beginning

Why icebreaker Still Leads Today

1. Farm-to-Garment Integrity
We maintain direct relationships with 60+ NZ merino stations, ensuring:
● Regenerative farming practices
● Industry-leading animal welfare (no mulesing, ever)
● Full traceability from sheep to shelf

2. Performance Through Nature
Our fabrics outperform synthetics by:
- Adapting to body temperature
- Naturally resisting odours
- Breaking down without microplastic pollution

3. Circular By Design
- Repair programs to extend garment life
- Natural fibres, no microplastic

"We don't make clothes for seasons - we make them for generations." 

Learn more about the icebreaker way

Join the Celebration

1. Share Your Story
Post your oldest icebreaker gear with #icebreaker30 for a chance to be featured

2. Limited Edition Drops
Vintage-inspired pieces with modern performance View Our Anniversary Collection

3. Behind the Scenes
Exclusive content with our growers, designers, and ambassadors