Yvon Chouinard

Date of Birth: November 9, 1938

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: *Alive*

Biography

Yvon Chouinard, born November 9, 1938, in Lewiston, Maine, is an American rock climber, environmentalist, and businessman. He is best known as the founder of the outdoor clothing and gear company Patagonia. Chouinard’s passion for climbing began in his youth and led him to develop innovative climbing gear. He founded Chouinard Equipment, which became the leading supplier of climbing hardware in the United States. However, recognizing the environmental impact of his products, he shifted his focus to more sustainable practices, leading to the creation of Patagonia in 1973. Patagonia has since become a model for corporate social responsibility, donating significant profits to environmental causes. Chouinard is also the author of several books, including “Let My People Go Surfing,” which outlines his business philosophy centered around environmental stewardship and work-life balance.

5 Interesting Facts about Yvon Chouinard

1. Yvon Chouinard is an accomplished rock climber and was part of the golden age of Yosemite climbing.

2. Chouinard Equipment, the precursor to Patagonia, introduced the first reusable climbing pitons to reduce environmental damage.

3. He is a fervent advocate for environmental sustainability and has committed Patagonia to donate 1% of sales to environmental causes.

4. Chouinard is a member of the 1% for the Planet initiative, which he co-founded with Craig Mathews.

5. In 2018, Patagonia gave away $10 million in tax cuts received from the Trump administration to environmental groups.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Yvon Chouinard

1. “The cure for depression is action.”

2. “How you climb a mountain is more important than reaching the top.”

3. “We’re in business to save our home planet.”

4. “Profit is what happens when you do everything else right.”

5. “The hardest thing in the world is to simplify your life; it’s so easy to make it complex.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At his peak, Yvon Chouinard’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 billion.

Children

Yvon Chouinard has two children: a daughter named Claire Chouinard and a son named Fletcher Chouinard. Both have been involved in the family business and share their father’s passion for environmental stewardship.