I spent some time on the phone talking with someone in Northwave's US office. They did bring in a very limited quantity of apparel in 2008, sold through backcountry, excel sports & colorado cyclist. But he didn't think those retailers had much left.

Unfortunately, as is the case with all the European brands, the precipitous decline of the US dollar against european currencies means that the apparel is becoming drmatically more expensive when priced in US$. As a result, the US office will not be bringing Northwave apparel into the US for 2009. Just shoes.

He suggested you email info@northwave.it They will respond (in English) to inquiries regarding where you can order it from in Europe. I know that's not your preferred option, bluetree, but I don't think you'll be able to get your hands on it otherwise.

As an aside, I've also been informed that this is true of Etxe Ondo as well. We will have that brand for Fall 2008 (at some significant price increases over Fall 2007), but then that is it for the brand in the US.

That's where things stand at the moment, as far as I know.

Sorry I can't be of more help.

Susan