For those with disabilities, mobility issues, or visual impairments, a lack of accessible gear is an obstacle to participating in outdoor recreation. Outdoor gear is very rarely made with these individuals in mind.
That’s what makes The North Face’s (TNF) new Universal Collection such a standout. The storied outdoor brand developed a whole capsule of outdoor essentials with as inclusive an approach as possible.
The North Face Universal Collection
The Universal Collection includes five thoughtfully designed products with features that all outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate.
The Universal Wawona 3 Tent ($435) has highly visible tent sleeves. It also has an integrated rainfly to make it simpler to set up for those with visual impairments. The zipper pulls are extra large for smoother use, and the large entryway and low threshold make it easier for those with mobility devices to enter and exit.
The Universal One Bag ($270) is a sleeping bag that replaces finicky zippers with two magnetic closures. It simply wraps around the user and secures with the magnets.
The brand also added silicone to the parts of the bag you manipulate — like the drawcords — so they’re easier to find. It has a 20-degree temperature rating and a water-repellent finish to help fend off the elements.
The Universal Daypack ($140) uses those same magnetic closures and also adds an extra-large, reinforced handle. TNF designed it to fit a range of body types and to sit comfortably between the wheels of most wheelchairs. With durable, water-resistant nylon and extra-thick fabric on the bottom, it can also withstand the abuse of the trail.
The 20L bag can fit a 3L water bladder or laptops up to 15 inches.
In addition to gear, the lineup also includes a few pieces of apparel. The Universal Horizon Convertible Brimmer ($60) can be adjusted and secured with just one hand. The Universal Design Traction Mules ($65) take the brand’s popular camp slipper and add a unique feature. Either shoe can be worn on either foot.
The Design Process
TNF sees this collection as a major step toward inclusivity in outdoor gear. It worked with its adaptive and parasport athletes to shape the designs, focusing on ease of use and functionality.
Additionally, “the collection is also cost approachable, allowing more user groups the opportunity to participate in outdoor recreation with reliable performance gear,” the brand said in a press release.
“The hallmarks of great design should provide a positive user experience from start to finish for all users,” Senior Technical Equipment Designer Luke Matthews explained. “We kept our Athlete Tested, Expedition Proven promise with this collection by working with our adaptive athletes, Vasu Sojitra and Maureen Beck. Thanks to their collaboration and insight, we built a collection that removes barriers through intuitive design elements, creating an inclusive experience for everyone.”
“This is the first time we’re seeing accessibility innovations starting with the adaptive community and flowing up to everyone else, rather than the other way around. The Universal Collection is proving that designing for accessibility just makes better gear for everyone,” TNF athlete Maureen Beck said.
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