The Outdoor Industry Was Way Ahead of Pantone

Classic Blue gear has been in our closets for years

Pantone’s executive director Leatrice Eiseman calls Classic Blue—the color authority’s pick for 2020 Color of the Year—“a boundless blue evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky.” We call it a gear-closet staple: it graces our packs, water bottles, coat racks, and sock drawers. But this year, we especially noticed the blue wave taking over the outdoor industry.  “Our Winter Buyer’s Guide cover was actually very Classic Blue,” says Outside art director Petra Zeiler. “Gear brands were definitely on top of the trend.” 

What makes this color so good? It’s warmer and brighter than indigo, more interesting than navy. “And the coolest part is that it goes with everything, so it feels dynamic,” Zeiler says. It’s true: pair Classic Blue with all the hard-to-pull-off brights and neons in your kit and let its calming vibes provide a sense of unity. “I live for this color,” adds Kyra Kennedy, Outside’s photography editor. “It’s something literally everyone looks good in.” 

To add a little more Classic Blue to your life in 2020, we scoured the web for ten great pieces that feature the color proudly.

Patagonia Men’s Diamond Quilted Bomber Hoody in Stone Blue ($169)

Hydroflask Wide Mouth 32 oz in Cobalt ($45)

Burton Men’s Crown Bonded Hoodie in Dress Blue Acid Wash ($90)

Fjällräven Kanken in Royal Blue ($80)

The North Face Women’s Thermoball Eco Hoodie in Flag Blue ($220)

Flylow Kids Mason Beanie ($25)

United by Blue Evergreen Enamel Lined Copper Mug ($32)

Smartwool Women’s Merino 250 Base Layer Crew in Deep Marlin Heather ($100)

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack in Indigo ($220)

Marmot Nanowave 50-Degree Semi Rec Sleeping Bag in Estate Blue ($79)

Credit: Aleta Burchyski