#Japan #Tokyo #Mammut #Nigel Cabourn #Mitsuko Imai

Mammut and Nigel Cabourn's Historic Collaboration Collection

On October 16, 2025, Mammut and renowned British designer Nigel Cabourn will unveil their first-ever collaboration collection, inspired by the incredible climbing feat of the Eiger North Face's direct route achieved in 1969, led by pioneering Japanese climber Mitsuko Imai.

Founded in 1862 as a rope manufacturer in Switzerland, Mammut has cultivated a legacy of over 160 years, constantly innovating in outdoor apparel and gear to provide customers with the "ultimate experience." Entering a new era, Mammut’s 2025 brand slogan, "Rise with the Mountain – Challenge is Life," embraces the challenges and growth that come with the pursuit of adventure. Through high-performance products and novel concepts, the company is committed to supporting individuals on their journeys.

This unique collaboration with Nigel Cabourn, an expert in heritage fashion, pays heartfelt homage to the 1969 ascent of Japan's Directissima route on the Eiger's North Face, accomplished by an elite team of climbers that included the legendary Mitsuko Imai.

The Inspiring Story of Mitsuko Imai

Central to this collaboration is the narrative of Mitsuko Imai, who became the first woman to participate in the historic Eiger North Face ascent at the young age of 27. As the only female member of her six-person team, she not only served as the expedition's doctor but also played a pivotal role in pioneering the new direct route known as Japan's Directissima. At a time when European women needed their husbands' permission to work, Imai's achievement stands as a powerful testament to perseverance, and her courage continues to serve as an inspiration for generations of climbers and women alike.

In her own words, at age 83, Imai expressed her delight, saying, "I am very pleased to hear that this collaboration with Nigel Cabourn and Mammut is inspired by the 'Japan's Directissima' we climbed in 1969. I hope many people enjoy this collection that preserves the atmosphere of that era while incorporating new materials, igniting a greater interest in nature and climbing."

The Collection Details

The capsule collection comprises 12 unisex styles that draw inspiration from garments worn by the 1969 expedition. Under Cabourn's unique vision, vintage expedition wear is reinterpreted with functionality, featuring authentic materials such as ventile cotton, Scottish wool, and Swiss military blanket fabric known for their durability and insulation. These traditional materials seamlessly integrate modern technologies like Pertex Quantum lining and dry down, ensuring that the collection meets the highest contemporary performance standards while retaining a classic aesthetic.

Redolent of nostalgia, this collaboration is not merely about the past; as Cabourn stated, "This collaboration celebrates the indomitable spirit of climbing, innovation, and international community."

The collection’s design process included extensive research into historic mountain apparel, revealing valuable archives discovered in a loft in Sheffield, UK. The outcome consists of high-quality products capable of functioning under harsh mountain conditions—an embodiment of the highest craftsmanship.

Captured in Action

The collection was photographed against the striking backdrop of the Eiger North Face in April 2025, featuring Mammut athletes Tatsuya Aoki (also known as Timmy) and Yuka Kobayashi, alongside both Cabourn and Mitsuko Imai. This endeavor showcases a profound passion for alpinism, uniting generations through their shared experience in the mountains.

Respecting the rich multicultural history embedded in climbing culture, the exclusive collection is versatile enough to be worn both outdoors and in urban settings. Available from October 16, 2025, it will be distributed at select stores and the official Mammut online store. Notably, a pre-order event will take place at Mammut's Shinjuku store from October 9 to 15, with more details to be shared in early October on their official website.

Dive into the Journey

To further enhance the collection's narrative, a documentary titled "SENKU-SHA" is also being released. This 12-minute film portrays Mitsuko Imai's reflections as she returns to the Eiger at the age of 83, exploring the profound impact climbing has had on her life. The film captures essential moments, including the reenactment of iconic imagery from the 1969 ascent by Japanese Mammut athlete Yuka Kobayashi, wearing pieces from the new collection. For a deeper glimpse into this poignant story, the full movie is accessible here.

The Impact of Heritage in Modern Design

Nigel Cabourn, born in 1949, has made a name for himself with outerwear that draws heavily from vintage influences. Since the early 1970s, he has utilized authentic fabrics like Harris Tweed and ventile, focusing on designs that promise durability and transcend fashion trends. His brand continues to resonate with a loyal audience across Europe, North America, and Japan, thanks to the timelessness of his collections.

About Mammut

Mammut is a premier outdoor brand that has been revered for its dedication to safety and innovation for over 160 years. Their extensive line of products encompasses apparel, footwear, backpacks, climbing hardware, and avalanche safety equipment, making it a staple in outdoor performance gear across roughly 50 countries. In Japan, Mammut operates 15 flagship stores in key cities and is available in approximately 700 retail outlets nationwide, with plans for further expansion.