Tensions Rise Between Drag Queen Pattie Gonia And Outdoor Clothing Brand

Drag queen and environmental activist Pattie Gonia, whose real name is Wyn Wiley, rejected Patagonia’s offer to settle a lawsuit, claiming on social media that the outdoor clothing brand is “trying to erase my advocacy.”

Patagonia posted an offer on Instagram in an attempt to resolve its trademark infringement lawsuit against Wiley on June 1. The company requested him to “Withdraw all trademark applications … Stop using our logos … Stop selling and promoting apparel and other products as Pattie Gonia.” 

“If we can agree on this, we can work out everything else, and Pattie Gonia could continue as a performer and activist,” Patagonia said.

In response, Wiley posted his rejection of the offer, writing, “If I can’t do partnerships as Pattie Gonia, it breaks the whole ecosystem of advocacy and community engagement.” 

The public response to these Instagram posts has sparked highly polarized discussions and protests. In the comments section, many LGBTQ advocates and fans of Pattie Gonia accuse Patagonia of homophobia and bullying while vowing never to buy from the brand again. 

Prior to the lawsuit, Hydro Flask and Patagonia communicated via email in 2022 to ensure there was no customer confusion for an upcoming collaboration between Hydro Flask and Pattie Gonia. They made an agreement that he would refrain from using Patagonia’s logo, iconic Belwe font, or the name Pattie Gonia on any products. Wiley’s 2025 merch drop, however, featured apparel with the phrase “Pattie Gonia Hiking Club” and stickers with a strikingly similar mountain logo and font. 

Patagonia responded in an email to Wiley over the apparent breach.

“Patagonia remains supportive of your work but must insist that the Pattie Gonia persona not be commercialized and continue to adhere to the commitments made in 2022,” the company said. “Unfortunately, these latest product sales force Patagonia’s hand and so I’m asking that you discontinue sales of t-shirts and stickers (or any product) using Pattie Gonia branding or designs substantially similar to Patagonia’s logos.”

Patagonia’s lawsuit, which was previously reported by The Daily Wire, was filed on January 21 in response to Wiley’s trademark application for the rights to the Pattie Gonia brand. 

“This matter is not about seeking financial gain, nor is it about challenging anyone’s identity or right to advocacy, protest, or creative expression,” Patagonia said in a recent press release. “The last thing we wanted was a legal fight with someone who shares our values, but we must protect our business and employees.”