This system (patent pending),
incorporated in a series of three multi-day backpacking packs, is the
first to truly address the dynamic relationship between a pack and its
user, resulting in a more comfortable and efficient backpacking
experience. The key component in this system is the Load Equalizer, which
actually pivots the load in each direction in which the user moves. The North Face, the premier supplier of
authentic, innovative and technically advanced exploration apparel,
footwear, equipment and accessories, today announced the launch of its
Pivotal backpack Suspension System. This system (patent pending),
incorporated in a series of three multi-day backpacking packs, is the
first to truly address the dynamic relationship between a pack and its
user, resulting in a more comfortable and efficient backpacking
experience. The key component in this system is the Load Equalizer, which
actually pivots the load in each direction in which the user moves.

Consumers will be able to visually see the inner workings of this system
through a window in the back panel, and immediately feel the effectiveness
of this system as soon as they try it on and begin to move. Offered in two
volumes (Pivotal 75 and Pivotal 60) and one women’s-specific model
(Women’s Pivotal 60), the active Pivotal Suspension System provides
balance and freedom of movement to the user, allowing a harmonious
interaction with the body's naturally adapting suspension.

“The challenge in designing a multi-day backpacking suspension system is
to appreciate the dynamic nature of the body in motion,” explains Jim
Gerson, vice president of RD&D and brand management for The North Face.
“The North Face is the first to successfully build this active multi-day
suspension. The outdoor market is flooded with large volume packs that are
built to comfortably carry heavy loads, but the Pivotal Suspension System
now addresses the need to actively transfer weight from the pack to the
user.”

The human body has the perfect independent suspension, constantly adapting
to different movements and body positions. The Pivotal Suspension System
works with the body to allow this natural balance to function properly.
The Load Equalizer is the pivoting link that enables equal load transfer
-regardless of the natural pelvic adjustments that the body makes to
create balance during movement. The load bearing Flex Arms move with the
body to achieve the weight transfer from pack to body. These
carbon-composite arms extend from the Load Equalizer to distribute the
pack load evenly to the center of the hips. This multi-component design
works with your body movements resulting in a truly dynamic system.

“Never before has there been a multi-dimensional system that permits the
pelvis to pivot and tilt in any direction while providing full and
balanced load transfer to the hips.” explains Wade Woodfill, equipment
product director for The North Face. “This innovative system works
efficiently with the user's gait to allow for natural and unimpeded
movement, reducing overall fatigue and improving extended comfort.”


About The North Face®
The North Face®, a subsidiary of VF Corp., was founded in 1966 and opened
its first retail store in 1968. Headquartered in San Leandro, California,
the company offers the most technically advanced products in the market to
accomplished climbers, mountaineers, extreme skiers and explorers. The
company's products are sold in specialty mountaineering, backpacking and
skiing retailers, premium-sporting goods retailers and major outdoor
specialty retail chains. Additional information about The North Face® can
be found on the company’s website, www.thenorthface.com.

About VF Corporation
VF Corporation (NYSE: VFC) is the world's largest apparel company and a
leader in jeanswear, intimate apparel, playwear, workwear and daypacks.
Its principal brands include Lee®, Wrangler®,Riders®,Rustler®, Vanity Fair®, Vassarette®,Bestform®, Lily of France®, Lee Sport®,Healthtex®, JanSport®, Eastpak®, Red Kap® and
The North Face®. VF Corporation's press releases,annual report and other information can be accessed through the Company's home page,
www.vfc.com.