Bergans of Norway was founded in 1908. Since its foundation, the company has been managed by outdoor enthusiasts. Also thanks to this the company can deliver innovative products. For example they were the first company to introduce and patent backpacks. The backpack was then used by world famous explorers Amundsen and Scott.
Experiences like no other manufacturer
Bergans can offer experiences with manufacturing of outdoor equipment like no other. The company has played an important role in the history of outdoor products not only in Norway, but also worldwide. The company is named after its founder Ole F. Bergan.
Founder inventor
Ole F. Bergan invented his first modern backpack (Bergans Frame) in 1908, but it was not his only invention. Overall, he had 45 patents, which could largely be used outdoors. One of the most important is the first ski bindings of type step in/step out, an electric harpuna for whale hunting, a wooden sled with a brake or even combustion engine.
The patent for Bergan's backpack bought a wholesaler from Christiania (Oslo) for 1,500 Norwegian crowns and since 1913 Bergans Rucksacks was used by the The Norwegian Armed Force. The same backpacks were used by polar expeditions, such as Amundsen´s and Lincoln Ellsworth´s or by general Bruce during expedition to Mount Everest.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Bergan's backpack was patented in 22 countries, and Bergans also exported its backpacks to most of the world. In the mid -1920s, however, its patent expired.
Devastating fire
Bergans of Norway was able to recover even from the devastating fire in 1986, which resulted almost in the company bankruptcy. Goods of the value 20 million NOK were lost including the patterns for all production.
Innovation continues
Bergans of Norway continued in innovations even in its modern history. For example, it has developed a brand new carrying system named QSS. Since 1996 the company started to focus on producing functional clothing. In 2001, the company ceased to produce unisex size and began to produce models for women and children. 1996 company relocates to Hokksund (later also to Asker) and in 2001, the company began sponsoring the Norwegian reality show 71 ° Nord.
Modern outdoor products
Nowadays Bergans produces innovative outdoor products with the latest technologies that increase their functionality. All products are made from high-quality and extremely resistant materials. with the Bergans products, the protection against weather conditions as well as great insulation and ventilation properties are essential. Plenty of thoughtful features and the clothing is meant to be as functional as possible.