If you grew up in or are currently living in the Pacific Northwest, your closet probably looks a lot like a mini REI. There are a few token items that most PNW natives praise like a religion, and even though we like to think we all have our own style, the weather forces us to dress as if we're going on some kind of outdoor hiking adventure 24/7. We kind of dig that, so it's okay.
If you don't own at least one of these items, do you even really live in the PNW? Take a look below and see how many you can find in your own or your friends' closet.
Patagonia jacket
An absolute staple for living in the diverse weather conditions that we do. This jacket is your best friend when handling wind, rain, snow, or more likely, all three in one day. It's lightweight and comes in a million different colors, styles and levels of insulation. The bond you develop during your several months of wear is a unique one, seeing as it hardly ever leaves your side, except during those few months of summer. It's like a best friend that is consistently giving you warm and protective hug, and who doesn't love that? And who doesn't love Patagonia?
Birkenstock sandals
My favorite of the list, and also personally my favorite investment out of my 21 years of living. Although they can be a real bank-breaker for a pair of sandals, they're indestructible and somehow, at the same time, the most comfortable sandal out there. Whether you're a "Socks and Stocks" kind of kid or you like to wear them as they come, wearers rave about their impressive insoles and insane level of comfort. This brand has been around since 1774, so they must be doing something right. Sure, Target and the rest of the mainstream stores can try and mock these babies, but we know what the real deal and the hype is all about. They're outdoorsy and fun, made of cork and leather, perfect for the everyday bike ride or casual walk.
Northface vest
There's something about putting on a puffy vest that immediately brings your wardrobe up a couple of notches. Sweatshirt? Cool. Sweatshirt with a vest? Now you've really got it going on. Vests are great when trying to achieve the perfect level of in-between temperatures. It keeps your core nice and toasty and comes with all the perks of a jacket and without all the weight of one. Black is the notable default color, but why wouldn't you get black — it matches everything! And when you're wearing a vest every single day of winter like I am, versatility becomes a very important aspect. Plus, it's probably fleece lined (or you're wearing a fleece under it) which makes it even more amazing.
Chaco sandals
Hiking? Kayaking? Jetskiing? Yup, they can do it all and more. These quirky little sandals come in handy during spring through late summer in the PNW. With all of nature's beauty surrounding us, it only makes sense we own a shoe that can keep up with us as we explore all of it. Some of us don't take them off for days and that becomes pretty apparent with our intense Chaco tan lines (is that dirt on my feet or do I have a Chaco strap tan?). They'll never fall off your feet and being able to customize them is only half the fun of owning them.
Nalgene water bottle
Sure it says it's a water bottle, but really it's a magical container that can be whatever you want it to be. Nalgene bottles are made in the USA and are our trusty sidekick in all things liquid. We're talking canteens, flasks, sippy cups, tumblers — you name it. They're eco-friendly, colorful and reliable. Whether your bottle is strapped to a backpack or being carried in hand, it's probably covered in stickers from places you've visited or things you love.
