The North Face retail stores are owned by the same corporation whose brands include Wrangler, Lee Jeans and Jansport, maker of durable backpacks. And the first one in New Mexico has recently opened in Albuquerque at the ABQ Uptown mall on Louisiana Boulevard, in the heart of Uptown. This pedestrian-friendly outdoor mall has been quite popular since its opening in 2006. Jason Curnow, one of the managers at this North Face location, is quite knowledgeable and helpful.

The new North Face store at ABQ Uptown — Photo courtesy of The North Face Albuquerque

New acquisitions to the mall taking the place of the former Borders location (empty since 2011) are the North Face Store and another popular chain, J.Crew. Gap is set to come too, proof that the recession is on the way out and a better economy is picking up in this neck of the woods. As property manager A.J. Coffee explains, when one big name retailer moves in, others soon follow.

Hard to believe, but The North Face was actually started by two hiking enthusiasts in the North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco, barely above sea level.  The quality equipment this store manufactures has helped mountaineers reach the unthinkable heights of the Himalayas and beyond.  The north face of any mountain may be the coldest and most unforgiving, but The North Face brand is unwavering in its quality goods for not only those who enjoy wearing "wilderness chic," but those who trust its ability to live up to endurance demands of serious hikers and climbers. 

The North Face's newest customers — Photo courtesy of The North Face Albuquerque

On the weekend of their Grand Opening in mid-September 2012, the store enjoyed giving free gifts with every purchase of over $75 and other prizes. Check out their sweepstakes, "Get Up and Go," for a chance to win a $400 shopping spree.  And every Friday be sure to read their trivia question on Twitter. Be the first one to answer and win a $50 gift card.