User:StudentRyan/sandbox

1957-1969: Chouinard Equipment
Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia and accredited rock climber, began selling hand forged mountain climbing gear in 1957 through his company Chouinard Equipment. He worked alone selling his gear until 1965 when he partnered with Tom Frost in order to improve his products and combat the growing supply and demand issue he was faced with.

1970-Present: Patagonia
In 1970, Chouinard obtained rugby shirts from Scotland that he wore while climbing because the collar prevented the climbing sling from hurting his neck. Collard shirts were then designed and implemented into his merchandise line quickly became the primary product being sold. The success of the clothing line led to Chouinard Equipment being sold in 1989, now known as Black Diamond Equipment, and Chouinard shifting his focus entirely to athletic apparel rather than climbing equipment.