Patagonia Footwear named Whitney Conner as brand manager. Prior to joining Patagonia Footwear, Conner served as head technical rep and grassroots coordinator for Merrell Footwear. Conner, who will be based in Patagonia’s headquarters in Ventura, California, will be responsible for the overall strategic marketing direction, development of national programs and grassroots initiatives. Patagonia Footwear will be available for the first time at retail in January ’07 in over 32 Patagonia branded stores in the U.S., Europe and Japan, at premium footwear and outdoor specialty stores worldwide and in Patagonia’s distribution network.

“Whitney has the passion for our lifestyle and brings great enthusiasm and a proven track record,” said Craig Throne, general manager for Patagonia Footwear. “She will be a solid addition to our team that is working hard to make Patagonia Footwear a success. Whitney has the expertise to help grow the brand.”

“I am eager to jump in with Patagonia Footwear, a brand I have been using for a long time,” said Conner, brand manager for Patagonia Footwear. “My first piece of Patagonia apparel was a hand-me-down raincoat from someone twice my size, but I didn’t care, it was my favorite jacket. I appreciate the brand's approach to doing business with its firm promise to be smart about its design and manufacturing process in order to leave the smallest footprint possible on the environment. Patagonia Footwear is equally committed to this approach. I am proud to be part of this team.”