Devold
ActiveOverview
Devold is a Norwegian textile company founded in 1853, specializing in knitted wool garments primarily from merino wool for outdoor activities, extreme working conditions, and protective workwear.123 It holds the position as Norway's oldest manufacturer of knitted garments, with production focused in Europe, mainly Lithuania, and design and testing in Norway.23 The brand is noted for its long history of innovation in wool apparel, adapting traditional products to modern comfort and functionality standards.14
History
Devold was founded in 1853 by Ole Andreas Devold, who established Norway's first mechanically driven knitting factory using a water wheel and produced woollen underwear and mittens for fishermen.4 In 1882, he built Norway's first electric power station next to the factory, and in 1892 installed one of the country's early telephone lines to connect operations.4 The company expanded production to Lithuania in 1998, significantly growing there by 2002, and established a new plant and logistics center in Panevėžys Free Economic Zone in 2015, making it the main production base.2
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Merino Wool Base Layers | Functional underwear for active outdoor use | $80 - $200 |
| Mid-layer Wool Sweaters | Insulating knitwear for cold weather | $150 - $350 |
| Outdoor Wool Jackets | Weather-resistant layers for extreme conditions | $200 - $500 |
| Workwear Wool Garments | Protective clothing for industrial workers | $100 - $300 |
| Accessories (Hats, Mittens) | Traditional Norwegian wool items | $30 - $100 |
Manufacturing
Products are designed and tested in Norway, with primary manufacturing in Lithuania, which supplies over 90% of knitted products since expanding operations there in 1998 and opening a new plant in 2015.23 Some historical production occurred in Norway.1
Notable Products
- Rødlua Beanie - Traditional red knit cap symbolizing Norwegian adventure, rooted in folklore.
- Merino Wool Underwear - Light, soft base layers originally for fishermen, now for modern active use.
- Wool Mittens - Durable hand-knitted accessories from early production.
- Mid-layer Sweaters - Functional wool knits for insulation in harsh weather.
- Workwear Jackets - Protective outer layers for extreme working conditions.
Reputation
Devold is regarded by outdoor enthusiasts and professionals as a reliable heritage brand for high-quality, long-lasting merino wool clothing suited to cold and demanding environments.12 Strengths include its 170-year innovation history and European production focus.34 No major criticisms noted in available sources.