The North Face’s new ‘Universal Collection’ supports almost everyone’s pursuit of the outdoors
Between 2020 and 2023, fashion entered what felt like its most self-aware era. In the wake of a global pandemic, social justice movements and increasing scrutiny from consumers, brands raced to prove they stood for something beyond selling clothes. Diversity, inclusivity and sustainability became the industry’s favourite buzzwords. Every second campaign seemed carefully assembled to demonstrate representation: a model in a wheelchair, an older woman with silver hair, a curve model, a visible disability, a broader mix of ethnicities. Sustainability claims appeared on swing tags, websites and press releases with equal enthusiasm. Fashion wasn’t just marketing products, it was marketing values.
For a moment, it felt like genuine change was underway. Major publications celebrated disabled talent, diverse casting and body positivity, while brands publicly committed to environmental targets and DEI initiatives.
But somewhere along the way, the mood shifted.
Scroll through fashion campaigns in 2026 and a familiar aesthetic has quietly returned. Tall, thin, predominantly white, able-bodied models once again dominate luxury imagery. Industry reports have noted a decline in size inclusivity, while many companies have softened or scaled back public diversity commitments.
The question now isn’t whether fashion’s inclusivity era happened. It’s whether it was ever embedded deeply enough to survive once the headlines moved on.
However some of the world’s biggest brands have held true to the lessons they learnt in 2020, continuing to pursue new tech and ideas that bring a wider array of customers close to their designs. Cue The North Face Universal Collection: a groundbreaking outdoor innovation moment for The North Face and the industry as a whole, offering inclusive outdoor equipment packed with accessible innovations. The range is for everyone but pays particular attention to ensuring it is fully accessible through the use of magnets instead of zips, easy-to-use closures, and an adaptive carry system.
Launching the Universal Collection sets a new standard for accessibility to high-quality outdoor equipment through ease of use and affordability. Informed by specific insights from the adaptive community, the resulting products prioritise safety and confidence, regardless of skill level. Beyond intuitive features for ease of use and functionality, the collection aims to give more people the opportunity to participate in outdoor recreation with reliable performance gear.
Universal One Bag (Sleeping Bag)
A reimagined sleeping bag designed with one hand-friendly magnetic closures to eliminate the need for zippers and an insulated winged design that makes entry and exit easier for everyone. It’s Zipper-Free Design features one-hand-friendly magnetic FIDLOCK™ closures that fasten securely and eliminate the need for finicky zippers.
Universal Wawona 3 Tent
A revolutionary redesign of a campsite classic. Featuring equal-length poles for simplified set-up, easy-to-use closures and a larger entryway with a lower threshold that accommodates mobility devices. It also features highly visible pole sleeves streamline set-up even in the dark or for the visually-impaired.
Universal Daypack 20L
Designed with an adaptive carry system that fits a range of body types and mobility devices, plus one hand-friendly magnetic top closure for easy access to your gear.
Universal Camp Traction Mules
A more accessible version of The North Face’s iconic footwear. The familiar warmth of THERMOBALL™ insulation paired with a universal design that fits on either foot for campsite comfort that everyone can enjoy.
The North Face Universal collection is available now at www.thenorthface.co.nz.
