Why patterns are Important to us

Sherpa Adventure Gear was originally created as a tribute to the unsung heroes of Everest, the Sherpa. We focus on Nepali and Himalayan patterns as we continue to honour our founding vision and take inspiration from the rich heritage and history of our birthplace – Nepal.

To this day we work with our founding Sherpa family, and with female knitting co-operatives in Kathmandu and nearby villages to craft pieces like our handmade hats and headbands.

From our work with Room to Read funding education for Nepali children, to championing Nepali artistry, to using responsibly produced materials; our missions and values are infused with the values of the people and the land in which our story began.

Our Pattern Selection

Our designers put a great deal of thought and care into their designs, so we’ve put this guide together to give you an insight into the tapestry of stories behind this season’s stand-out styles.

Padma ‘Lotus’ and Neha Collections

Padma means ‘Lotus’ in Nepali. Lotus flowers hold deep meanings within Nepali culture. These flowers hold symbolic resonance within Hinduism and Buddhism, the two largest religions of Nepal. Lotus flowers have in part inspired the floral and leafy designs found in our Padma and Neha collections for their connection with Nepali culture. The lotus flower also holds secular symbolism of resilience and perseverance as their beautiful flowers grow from murky waters.

Neha is a name rooted in the Sanskrit language, symbolising love, tenderness, and affection. It carries a sense of warmth and emotional connection. In Nepali culture, names hold significant meaning, with Neha imbuing a sense of universal care and love.

Within these collections are three new distinct prints:

Sublime

The sublime is inspired by the intricately carved peacock windows in Bhaktapur, a 15th century Newari woodwork masterpiece that symbolises beauty and spiritual awakening.

Peacock

The symbol of the peacock is found throughout Nepali art and architecture, on temples, and depicted in wood carvings and paintings. In ancient Nepal, peacocks embody beauty, wisdom, and protection.

Bodhi Leaf

The Bodhi leaf pattern is inspired by the cultural significance the Bodhi tree holds in Nepal. The Bodhi tree is the sacred fig tree under which Siddhartha Gautama reached enlightenment and became the Buddha.

Newar shirt

The Newar shirt - similar to the women’s Sublime print - is inspired by the remarkable 15th century Newari woodwork masterpiece, the Bhaktapur Peacock Windows. This print offers a symbolic nod to the rich history of highly skilled artisanry found in Nepal.

Havai shirt

Our Havai shirt print is inspired by the diverse vegetation and subtropical forests of the Annapurna region and evokes the laid-back charm of Pokhara, a major city, historic trading route and travel destination in the region.

Phoenix shirt

The phoenix print on the Phoenix shirt is inspired by themes the peacock embodies in South Asian mythologies. Whilst the phoenix and peacock are distinct symbols from each other, their shared qualities are of beauty, immortality, and renewal.

Indi floral shirt

Similar to the Jaya Camp shirt, our men's Indi floral shirt is inspired by the art of block printing, a centuries-old textile art in India and Nepal, where intricate designs are hand-carved onto wooden blocks and used to stamp ink onto fabric. This vibrant tradition reflects regional identities and artistry, with natural dyes and motifs often inspired by nature, mythology, and daily life.

Jaya camp shirt

The Indi Blossom print for the Jaya camp shirt is inspired by block printing, a centuries-old textile art in India and Nepal. Artisans carve intricate designs onto wooden blocks, which are used to stamp ink onto fabric. Through using natural dyes and specific motifs, this printing tradition has been used to reflect regional identities and artisanry.

Bali polo shirt

In Bhutanese textiles, diamond shaped motifs symbolise protection, clarity, and the union of the spiritual and the earthly. The Bali polo's subtle geometric pattern evokes the diamond motifs found in Bhutanese textiles.

Tarcho tee

The print design for the Tarcho tee features Tarcho, Tibetan prayer flags. In Tibetan, “Tar” means “to liberate” and “chö” translates to “dharma” or “teachings”. You’ll find these flags strung up along mountain passes in the Himalayas. The five colours of the flags represent the five elements. Traditionally, it’s believed that the right balance of the vibrant colours; yellow, green, red, white, and blue produces health and harmony. These flags are left to blow in the wind, releasing goodwill and teachings across landscapes.

Vibrantly patterned clothing

Our range of unique patterns, combined with responsibly produced materials bring out the best in our clothing, making breathable, eye-catching, and high-quality attire that is never dull and never forgets its roots.

Below are some of our other clothing categories and available patterns:

Patterned knitwear

Our patterned men's and women’s knitwear keeps you warm and looking stylish after a day in the great outdoors. Not only is all our knitwear ethically sourced but they feature designs that pay tribute to the history of the Himalayas.

Patterned fleece

Looking for the perfect warming travel companion? Check out our cosy midlayer fleeces. Not only do these fleeces keep you warm, but they provide a dynamic look with Himalayan inspired patterns ranging from vibrant to subtle detailing. The high-quality and smooth surface of the 100% recycled polyester, anti-pill fleece makes them the perfect cosy companion when you need that extra layer of warmth

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