FAQ

About the products

How do you design your products?

At Alpine Nation, every piece of gear is meticulously designed from scratch, embodying our commitment to quality, functionality, and style. We are not merely a dropshipping brand; we take pride in our comprehensive approach to product development. This process encompasses everything from the initial fit and design concept, to the selection of materials and integration of technical features tailored to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.

Our design process begins with a deep understanding of what our customers need from their outdoor clothing — whether it's resilience to weather, mobility, comfort, or sustainability. Each product's journey from concept to creation is marked by careful consideration and innovation.

We craft many prototypes for each new product, testing and refining the design repeatedly. This rigorous development process ensures that every item offers the best possible fit and performance. It's not just about meeting expectations but exceeding them, ensuring that every piece of clothing we create stands up to the challenges of the great outdoors.

This dedication to design excellence means that when you choose Alpine Nation, you are choosing a product crafted with passion and precision, designed to support your adventures in every way possible.

Where are your products produced?

The majority of our products (90%) are proudly manufactured within Europe, while the remainder are produced in Pakistan. We ensure transparency by clearly indicating the country of origin on each product page. Should you require further details about the manufacturing processes or the origins of any item, our customer service team is readily available to assist you.

How do you source the materials for your products?

We source the majority of our materials from Italy and Spain, renowned for their high-quality textile production. These materials are selected for their superior performance characteristics, ensuring that they meet the rigorous demands of outdoor activities and provide exceptional durability, comfort, and functionality.

We are committed to ethical and sustainable practices, which is why we choose to work with factories within the European Union. These facilities are subject to strict labor regulations, which include ensuring fair wages for workers and maintaining a safe and pleasant work environment. By adhering to these standards, we support the well-being of the individuals who help bring our products to life.

The price of our products reflects the premium quality of the materials we use. At Alpine Nation, we are dedicated to crafting gear that embodies the best possible quality. We believe in creating products that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our customers in every aspect, from performance to ethical production practices.

How do I choose the right size and fit for clothing and gear?

Choosing the right size and fit for clothing and gear is crucial for comfort, performance, and satisfaction with your purchase. To ensure you select the right size and fit, we recommend the following steps:

1. Consult the Size Charts

Typically, the product page on our website features a size chart (found under the link “What’s my size”) that provides a guide to choosing the correct size. Remember, sizing can vary between different styles and types of clothing, so it's always a good idea to check the specific chart for each item you're interested in.

Additionally, on some product pages, we provide a fit guide that indicates whether the product runs true to size, small or large. 

2. Understand the Fit Types

We offer products in various fits, such as slim, regular, and relaxed. Each fit is designed to meet different needs and preferences:

Slim Fit: Closely follows the body's shape for a sleek, streamlined look. Ideal for layering under other pieces.

Regular Fit: Offers a balance of comfort and style with a design that's not too tight and not too loose.

Relaxed Fit: Provides maximum comfort and roominess.

3. Read Customer Reviews

Customer reviews can offer valuable insights into how a product fits, feels, and performs. Look for comments related to sizing— different people have different bodies, and fellow customers often share their experiences to help others choose correctly.

4. Consider the Purpose and Layering

Think about how you plan to use the item and whether you'll need to layer clothes underneath it. For outdoor activities that require multiple layers, you may want to size up to accommodate base layers and insulating layers comfortably.

5. Contact Customer Service

If you're still unsure, our customer service team is here to help. Provide them with your measurements and any specific needs or concerns you have, and they can offer tailored advice. 

Remember, the right fit should feel comfortable and suit the intended use of the clothing or gear, whether it's for everyday wear, outdoor adventures, or specific activities like climbing, skiing, or running.

What is the best way to care for and clean my products?

Every product you purchase comes with specific care instructions attached, and it's always best to refer to these for optimal maintenance. However, we generally advise the following practices for garment care:

  • Machine Wash Cold: To prevent shrinkage and maintain the fabric's integrity, wash your garments in cold water, not exceeding a temperature of 30°C (86°F).
  • Wash Inside Out: Invert your garments before washing to protect the external surface from wear and minimize pilling.
  • Gentle Cycle: Opt for a gentle washing cycle with a spin speed no higher than 1000 rpm to lessen the stress on the fabric.
  • Avoid Fabric Softeners: Steer clear of using fabric softeners, as they can gradually deteriorate the quality of the material.

Are your products sustainable?

We strive to minimize our environmental impact by producing our products as locally as possible. For approximately 90% of our products, this means manufacturing within a 500km radius, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting materials and finished goods.

While we aim to keep production local, there are rare instances—accounting for about 10% of our product range—where we must rely on suppliers from Asia to meet specific needs that cannot be addressed within our local network.

We also prioritize the use of sustainable materials. Wherever possible, we utilize fabrics that are certified by bluesign®. The bluesign® system is the gold standard for environmentally friendly and sustainable textile production. It ensures that along the entire production chain, from fiber to finished product, the textiles meet rigorous environmental and safety standards, promoting safer working conditions and reduced impact on both people and the planet.

However, it's important to acknowledge that every new product has an environmental cost, and no product can be 100% sustainable. This is why we focus on creating high-quality, durable products that stand the test of time. We believe that the most sustainable approach is to produce items that last, encouraging consumers to buy better and wear longer. This philosophy not only supports environmental sustainability but also provides our customers with better value for their investment.

How are you different from other outdoor brands?

Alpine Nation stands out in the outdoor clothing industry by focusing exclusively on women. The outdoor gear market has traditionally been dominated by products designed primarily for men, with many brands adopting a "pink it and shrink it" approach when creating women's gear. This method involves simply making smaller, pink versions of men's products without considering the distinct needs of women.

Our approach to designing outdoor gear is fundamentally different. It is focused on the unique needs of women. For example, we understand that women often feel cold more quickly than men, so we prioritize warmth in our products. We recognize that women's skin can be more sensitive to abrasive materials, prompting us to select fabrics that are gentle yet durable. The placement and design of pockets are thoughtfully adjusted to enhance both comfort and functionality, tailored to women's preferences. 

Beyond functionality, we also ensure that our gear is both flattering and stylish, meeting the aesthetic demands of our customers. This holistic consideration of women's specific needs drives our design process, setting us apart in the outdoor apparel industry. By engineering our products solely for women, we address these unique needs directly. 

Moreover, as a direct-to-consumer brand, we sell our products exclusively through our own channels and not via retailers. This model allows us to maintain a close relationship with our customers, gather feedback directly, and rapidly incorporate this input into continually evolving product lines. This direct interaction ensures that we are always tuned in to what our customers need and want, helping us serve you better and craft gear that truly meets your outdoor adventure needs.

Ordering & Shipping

Where is your warehouse located?

Our warehouse is located in Ljubljana, Slovenia. All orders are shipped from this location.

How long does it take to process my order?

We strive to dispatch orders within 24 hours of receiving the order, not counting weekends and public holidays.

Orders submitted and fully paid by 10 AM Central European Time will typically be processed on the same business day. Orders submitted after 10 AM will be processed on the subsequent business day at the latest. Please note that preorders are excluded from this timeline.

On rare occasions, especially during sales events (Black Friday, days before Christmas holidays, sitewide sales) when we experience an unusually high volume of orders, there may be occasional delays and it can take an additional few days to process your order as well as some delays with the freight company. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding during those peak times.

For orders paid via bank deposit, processing will begin once we have received the full payment.

Should there be any issues with inventory, such as your ordered items not being in stock, we will inform you promptly and offer the option to either change or cancel your order.

Do you deliver globally?

Yes, we offer worldwide shipping, but there are a few exceptions. If you do not see your country listed during the checkout process, it unfortunately means that we currently do not deliver to your location. However, we encourage you to contact us directly. Our team will gladly investigate and inform you if there are any possible delivery options for your country.

What shipping options do you offer, and how long do they take?

EU customers have the choice of two shipping options: standard shipping via GLS or express shipping via DHL Express. Both carriers maintain a high standard of service. Regardless of the chosen service, you will receive a tracking number to monitor the progress of your package upon dispatch of your order.

Estimated delivery times are as follows:

3-5 working days for GLS shipping

1-2 working days for DHL Express

For customers outside the EU, we exclusively use DHL Express for all shipments. The typical delivery time frame is 2-5 days, although some destinations may experience slightly longer delivery times of 6-7 days.

How can I track my order?

Upon dispatch of your order, you will receive an email notification that includes a tracking code.

To obtain current information about your package, please visit the appropriate tracking page based on the carrier used:

GLS tracking page

DHL tracking page

How do I know if my order was successful?

After placing your order, you will receive an order confirmation email, which includes all the details of your order, sent to the email address you provided. This email should arrive within a few minutes after your purchase. If you do not see the confirmation in your inbox, please check your spam or junk mail folder, as it may have been redirected there.

If you still cannot find the confirmation email or if you have any doubts about your order's status, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@alpinenation.com. Our team is here to assist you and ensure that your order process is smooth and clear.

Can I cancel my order?

You may cancel your order if it has not yet been dispatched to our courier. Please reach out to us as soon as possible through email, chat, or phone, and one of our team members will be glad to help you.

Can I change my order?

You may modify your order if it has not yet been dispatched to our courier. Please reach out to us as soon as possible via email, chat, or phone, and one of our team members will be glad to help you.

Please be aware that if you wish to exchange your ordered items for a different size, color, or a completely different product, the ability to do so will depend on the availability of the specific item.

Can I order as a company?

Absolutely, companies are more than welcome to place orders with us. During the checkout process, you have the option to add your company name in the designated field. Otherwise, the order process is exactly the same. 

If you require your company's VAT number to be displayed on the issued invoice, please enter it in the company name field, either separated by a space or enclosed in parentheses. E.g.: My Company Ltd (VAT nr. SI33984938).

Please note that for orders within the European Union, the prices will still include VAT. We currently do not offer the option to buy items exclusive of VAT for business customers. However, as a business, you will be able to reclaim the VAT in your usual accounting processes after the purchase.

If you have any specific invoice requirements or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is here to help ensure that your purchasing process is smooth and meets your business needs.

How do I know if my order has been dispatched?

Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive a Shipping Confirmation email at the email address you provided during the ordering process. This email will include a tracking number that allows you to track the progress of your package.

Do you gift wrap items?

Unfortunately, we do not offer gift wrapping at this time.

Is it safe to make a payment online?

Making a payment through our store is exceptionally safe. We implement SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption, which protects your personal and payment information by encrypting data during transmission. Our website is regularly updated to adhere to the latest security standards, ensuring that our defenses are always at the forefront of technology. 

Additionally, we partner with the world's most reputable payment providers—Stripe, Klarna, and Mollie—to manage transactions securely. We also use the Shopify ecommerce platform, known for its robust security measures. These combined efforts provide a secure shopping environment, allowing you to make transactions with complete confidence.

My size is sold out. What can I do?

We strive to keep our inventory as accurate as possible, ensuring that our website reflects the current availability of items. 

Particularly during sales, stock levels can deplete quickly. To help you gauge availability, a notification labeled "low stock" appears just above the "Add to Cart" button when an item’s stock is running low. Especially during these high-demand periods, such an indicator suggests that the item may sell out soon.

If a specific size is unavailable, we encourage you to use the "Out of stock in your size?" link to provide your email address. This way, we can notify you as soon as the item is restocked.

Please be aware that some of our products are discontinued and will not be replenished. If you have any questions about item availability or restocking, please do not hesitate to contact us.

I forgot to add a discount code to my order. What can I do?

If you forgot to apply a discount code to your order, please contact us as soon as possible. We will do our best to assist you. Depending on the status of your order, we might be able to amend the order and refund the difference. In some cases, it may be necessary to cancel the existing order and place a new one using the discount code. We will guide you through the process and clearly explain all the steps involved to ensure your satisfaction.

I missed the sale and now the price of the item went up. What can I do?

We understand it can be disappointing to miss out on a sale. We strive to communicate the start and end dates of our sales clearly to ensure our customers have the opportunity to take advantage of discounted prices. Unfortunately, once a sale has concluded, we are unable to offer the items at the sale price.

To avoid missing future sales, we recommend subscribing to our newsletter. This way, you will always be informed about upcoming and active sales, as well as other promotional offers. Subscribing ensures you have the latest information and can plan your purchases to make the most of our discounts.

Taxes, Customs Fees, Invoices

I am a customer residing in the UK / Switzerland / Norway / Iceland / Liechtenstein. Will I have to pay additional taxes and duties upon receiving my order?

Your order will be shipped under the terms of Delivery Duty Paid (DDP), ensuring that the price you pay at checkout is the final price, with no hidden costs. We will cover any additional taxes and/or duties on your behalf. 

Despite being located outside the EU, our aim is to offer you a seamless shopping experience, free from concerns about unexpected charges, allowing you to fully enjoy your purchases.

I am a customer residing in Serbia / Bosnia and Herzegovina / Montenegro / North Macedonia / Kosovo. Will I have to pay additional taxes and duties upon receiving my order?

Unfortunately, we do not currently offer Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) shipping to Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Kosovo.

This means that customers in these countries may be subject to import duties, taxes, and other charges, which are not included in the item price or the total shipping cost. 

These additional costs are typically collected at the point of delivery. If these additional costs are incurred and the buyer fails or refuses to pay them, leading to the package being returned to us, we will need to deduct both the original shipping cost and the cost of returning the package from the total order amount. The remaining balance will then be refunded to you.

I am a customer residing outside of the EU or UK / Switzerland / Norway / Iceland / Liechtenstein. Will I have to pay additional taxes and duties upon receiving my order?

Unfortunately, we do not currently offer Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) shipping to your country of residence.

This means that customers in these countries may be subject to import duties, taxes, and other charges, which are not included in the item price or the total shipping cost. 

These additional costs are typically collected at the point of delivery. If these additional costs are incurred and the buyer fails or refuses to pay them, leading to the package being returned to us, we will need to deduct both the original shipping cost and the cost of returning the package from the total order amount. The remaining balance will then be refunded to you.

Do I receive an invoice with my order?

Yes, we generate an invoice for every order. This invoice is sent to you in a separate email from your order confirmation. Typically, we send it immediately after you place your order. However, there may occasionally be a slight delay in sending out the invoice. Please do not worry if you do not receive it right away; your order is secure and will be processed promptly.

If you cannot find your invoice email, please check your spam or junk mail folder, as it might have been filtered there. If you still have concerns or need further assistance, please feel free to contact us.

Does my order include VAT?

Whether VAT (Value Added Tax) is included in the price of your order depends on the shipping destination. For orders shipped to countries within the European Union, VAT is automatically included at the rate applicable in the destination country.

For orders shipped to the UK, Switzerland, Norway, or Iceland, VAT is not included in the initial price shown. However, we cover all import fees, VAT, and any other applicable taxes during shipping. The amount you pay at checkout is the final total, and you will not incur any additional charges upon delivery.

For orders shipped to countries outside of these regions, VAT is not included in the price. As a result, you may be subject to additional charges such as import duties, local taxes, and VAT, depending on your country’s customs policies. These additional charges are typically collected by the local customs authorities or the shipping service upon delivery or pickup of the order.

Returns

What is your return policy?

You have 30 days from the date of receipt to return any item you are not completely satisfied with. The items you wish to return must be in their original condition—unworn, unwashed, undamaged, and with all tags and original packaging intact. Items labeled as 'final sale', as well as digital and physical gift cards, cannot be returned. Have a look at our refund policy for further details.

How do I return an item?

1. You can initiate your exchange or return by visiting our Return & Exchange Portal

In the Return & Exchange Portal, you will be guided step by step to choose the product you wish to return, select a new product, or choose a refund method. You will receive all the necessary information about how to send the products back. We will send you updates and instructions for your return or exchange via email. Please check your inbox, and if you don’t see it there, please also check your spam folder.

2. Pack the Items

Carefully pack the items you wish to return. You can use the original packaging, but please remember to remove the original label from the box or bag.

If you are sending the items back with a courier of your choice, please make sure to obtain a tracking number. This is the only way you will have evidence that you sent it back, and we can track your package if needed.

3. Processing Time

After you've sent back your items, please allow some time for us to process your return. We strive to handle all returns promptly, but there may be delays during busy periods. You will receive an email as soon as we receive your package in our warehouse. Rest assured, your satisfaction is our top priority, and we appreciate your patience.

By following these steps, you can return your items efficiently and ensure that your concerns are addressed swiftly.

Do you offer exchanges of purchased items?

Yes, we do offer exchanges for purchased items. If you wish to exchange an item, you'll need to return the item(s) you want to exchange back to us. This can be done using a free return label if you are in one of the eligible countries, or at your own expense if you are not in a country where we offer free returns.

Here’s how to proceed:

Return the Item: You can initiate your exchange by visiting our Return & Exchange Portal

Replacement Item: Once we receive your return, we will send the replacement item(s) to you free of charge. Please note that exchanges are limited to one exchange per order and are subject to the availability of the desired item(s).

Do you offer free returns?

Yes, we offer free returns, but this service is currently available only to customers in the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, and Sweden.

If you reside in one of these countries and need to return an item, you can do so at no additional cost.

How do I get a free return label?

Please visit http://returns.alpinenation.com/ and follow the instructions on the page to generate a free return label via GLS delivery service. 

If you prefer not to use the free return label via GLS, you can return the item(s) using any carrier you choose, at your own cost. In this case, we highly recommend choosing a carrier that provides tracking information, as you are responsible for the parcel until it safely arrives at our warehouse. Please be aware that we are unable to issue refunds for items that are lost or damaged during transit.

What is the address for returns?

All items should be sent to:

Alpine Nation
Ulica Jozeta Jame 12
1210 Ljubljana
Slovenia

How do I receive a refund for my returned item(s)?

Refunds will be issued directly to the original payment method(s) used at purchase. If multiple methods were used, the refund will be distributed among them. For payments made with a gift card, the amount will be returned to the card. Refunds might not show immediately; please allow a few days for processing.

Can I use a different carrier than GLS to return items?

If you prefer not to use our free return option via GLS (or the free return option is not available in your country), you are welcome to use a carrier of your choice for returns.

However, please note that you will be responsible for the return shipping costs.

We highly recommend choosing a carrier that provides tracking information, as you are responsible for the parcel until it safely arrives at our warehouse. Please be aware that we are unable to issue refunds for items that are lost or damaged during transit.

Sustainability and Ethics

What are your sustainability practices?

We are deeply committed to sustainability and ethical practices throughout our manufacturing process. To this end, we produce 90% of our items within a 300-mile radius of our warehouse, which is located in Ljubljana, Slovenia (the gateway to the Julian Alps). This strategic choice not only reduces our carbon footprint but also enhances our supply chain efficiency.

How do you ensure ethical sourcing and production of your products?

The majority of our products are manufactured within the European Union, where our manufacturing partners adhere to the rigorous standards and labor practices mandated by European legislation. This regional commitment ensures not only the quality and durability of our products but also promotes a fair and safe working environment for all employees involved in the production process. European labor laws are renowned for their protective measures, which include strict regulations on working hours, mandatory breaks, and minimum wage provisions

Additionally, our manufacturing partners are located within a few hours' drive from our main facilities, which enables us to make frequent on-site visits. During these visits, we stringently verify that the working conditions meet our high standards. We choose to collaborate with partners who prioritize the well-being of their employees. Together, we ensure that all workers in the manufacturing facilities are treated with respect, work in safe environments, and are fairly compensated for their efforts.

General

Can I contact you by email?

Yes, please email us at info@alpinenation.com.

Where is Alpine Nation located?

Alpine Nation is incorporated in Slovenia under the legal name Alpine Nation d.o.o., and all our company information is publicly available through the Agency of the Republic of Slovenia for Public Legal Records and Related Services. We also have a North American subsidiary that serves our US and Canadian customers, which is incorporated in British Columbia, Canada, under the name Alpine Nation Clothing Inc.

Our warehouse is located in Ljubljana, Slovenia. All orders, regardless of destination, are dispatched from this location, ensuring centralized processing and consistent handling of your purchases.

Do you work with influencers or content creators?

We are always on the lookout for talented social media influencers and content creators who share our passion for the great outdoors and can convey the spirit of adventure through their content. If you're interested in working with us, whether you're experienced or just starting out, email us at collaborations@alpinenation.com with your details.

I've got some cool photos from my adventures wearing your gear. Can I send them to you?

Absolutely, we'd love to see your photos! It’s always inspiring to see our customers enjoying their adventures in Alpine Nation gear. You can send your photos to us directly via email at info@alpinenation.com, or feel free to tag us in your Instagram posts using #alpinenation. We look forward to seeing your great moments and possibly featuring them to inspire the rest of our community!

I want to share feedback on your gear. How can I do that?

We're always eager to hear from our customers and genuinely value your feedback as it plays a crucial role in our ongoing efforts to enhance our gear. Your insights help us understand what works and what can be improved, ensuring that we continue to meet your outdoor adventure needs effectively.

Please feel free to share your feedback with us in any of the following ways:

  • Email: Send us your thoughts at info@alpinenation.com.
  • Chat: Reach out through the chat feature on our website for a direct conversation.
  • Phone: Give us a call at +386 40 271 850.

We're looking forward to hearing from you and learning how we can make our products even better!