Discover the Odlo brand

Odlo: The Brand’s Origins and History

Odlo was founded in Oslo in 1946 by Odd Roar Lofterød, a cross-country skiing champion. From the very beginning, the brand took a technical and innovative approach: inspired by his son, a speed skater, he developed pants made of Helanca fibers to help him retain body heat during training.

In 1963, the company launched the first stretchy, functional Helanca-fiber outfit for cross-country skiers and speed skaters. By 1964, the entire Norwegian national team was wearing this revolutionary outfit at the Olympic Games. In 1972, 22 national teams wore Odlo outfits at the Sapporo Olympic Games.

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The name Odlo is derived directly from the first name of its founder: Odd Roar Lofterød. True to its motto “Always one step ahead,” the Norwegian brand moved its headquarters to Switzerland in 1986 to support its international expansion, while retaining its Nordic roots as the backbone of its identity.

In May 2020, Odlo joined the Monte Rosa Sport group, which also includes Janus, the Norwegian producer of high-end merino wool, and Henri-Lloyd, the British sailing brand.

Product Development and Innovations at Odlo

In 1987, Odlo launched the Athletic Clothing System, a revolutionary concept based on the three-layer principle: the base layer for optimal moisture wicking, the mid-layer for thermal regulation, and the outer layer to block wind and protect against rain. This system, now a universal standard in the outdoor world, is an Odlo invention.

In 2002, the brand sparked a small revolution with Effect by Odlo, the first base layer to incorporate antibacterial silver ions to limit odor development. In 2006, it launched Cubic, a 3D-structured fabric that ensures optimal body temperature year-round.

In January 2024, Odlo unveiled a new brand strategy centered on the slogan “There’s more out there,” with ambassador Martin Fourcade as its figurehead.

Products offered by the Odlo brand

Odlo has mastered the three-layer system. Where other brands may simply sell clothing, Odlo offers a complete solution where the first layer is the foundation of all comfort.

The Odlo range covers all technical needs for mountaineering and outdoor sports: lightweight to ultra-warm base layers (including the Blackcomb line for extreme conditions), fleece midlayers and insulated vests, technical waterproof and windproof jackets, as well as outfits designed for cross-country skiing, trail running, hiking, and cycling. The brand also incorporates natural materials such as yak and merino wool into its collections.

Odlo’s Commitment to Sustainability

At Odlo, sustainability is part of the brand’s heritage: a pioneer in recycled fibers in the 1990s, it launched its first fully recycled technical base layer in 2011. This commitment is based on three principles: Make it Fair (fair working conditions), Choose with Care (responsible materials), and Close the Loop (design for sustainability and circularity).