Mountain Hardwear is renowned for its durability and quality, crafting gear tough enough for activities in harsh environments like 8,000-meter peaks. Since its founding in 1993 in Berkeley, California, the brand has been a trailblazer in outdoor apparel, consistently rolling out innovative products.
We spoke with Iori Kondo from Mountain Hardwear's Product Division about a down jacket the brand developed that's poised to become the new standard for the next generation.
The Evolution of Down Wear—From Insulation to a "Down Jacket for Action"
Historically, down jackets were primarily designed for protection against severe cold. By the 2000s, fashion became a major consideration, followed by a push for lighter materials. In the 2010s, sustainability entered the conversation, and the landscape and uses for down wear have been evolving ever since.Riding this wave of innovation, Mountain Hardwear set out to develop a "down jacket for action"—one that does more than just keep you warm.