Outdoor Brands You Might Not Know, But You Should — Unveiling Mammut.
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Blog Series: 01/11 | MammutI love quality, well-made products. Working in advertising as a creative, from the giants agencies to the boutiques, has given me a unique perspective. It's not always about the big names you know; sometimes, it's the ones you don't that capture your eye.
Now, stepping away from agency life with Overland Girl, I'm spotlighting the brands that ignite my passion and confidence. With my creative roots and a career that's crossed paths with both the well-known and the obscure, I'm excited to share the brands that stand out—not just for their products but for their stories, commitment, and undeniable spirit. Let's dive into the world of these hidden gems, exploring what makes them tick and, perhaps, finding the one that speaks to you. You might already know these brands; if so, that is great. Mammut, Black Crows, Wild Rye, Stio, Snow Peak, Dragon Alliance, Big Agnes, Mountain Gazette, Wild Sam, HipCamp, and Rovr Coolers.
Wengen, Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland Photo by Marco Meyer
Mammut. Swiss made.
Rooted in the heart of Switzerland, a country synonymous with mountain culture, Mammut has equipped explorers for over a century and a half with gear that embodies Swiss precision and durability. Specializing in a broad spectrum of outdoor activities, from climbing and mountaineering to skiing and trail running, Mammut's commitment to quality ensures that adventurers are prepared to face the wilderness.
Mountain inspired in the Alps since 1862.
Thanks to Kaspar Tanner, Mammut started in 1862 in Dintikon, Switzerland. It began as a small operation focused on making ropes, but Tanner's commitment to quality and innovation quickly set the brand apart. Mammut Ropes gained a reputation for being top-notch, which helped the company grow beyond Switzerland and into the global mountaineering scene.
Photo courtesy of Mammut.
Over the years, Mammut didn't just stick to ropes; they expanded their range to cover all kinds of outdoor gear. This growth was driven by a clear understanding of what mountaineers really needed and a constant push for new technologies. Beyond making equipment, Mammut also had a big role in developing safety standards, showing their dedication to keeping adventurers safe.
From its simple start to becoming a key player in outdoor equipment, Mammut's story is all about a deep love for adventure and pushing the boundaries of innovation. Today, Mammut is more than just a brand; it's a legacy that encourages us to explore further and push higher.
Mammut's global footprint.
As Mammut transitioned from a local Swiss brand to a global powerhouse in the outdoor industry, its footprint has expanded beyond the Alpine origins that first defined its mission. Today, Mammut's presence on the international stage is a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. This expansion is not just geographical; it represents Mammut's evolution into a provider of a comprehensive range of outdoor gear that caters to adventurers across the globe.
Mammut’s products are now available in more than 40 countries, underscoring the brand's global appeal and the universal trust in its gear. From Europe to North America, Asia, and beyond, Mammut has established a robust distribution network that ensures its products are accessible to outdoor enthusiasts wherever they may be.
Mammut's innovation philosophy.
Mammut's commitment to innovation is at the core of its mission to enhance the outdoor experience. Through rigorous research and development, the brand continuously pushes the boundaries of outdoor gear's functionality, safety, and environmental sustainability. Their focus on advanced technologies and materials ensures that every product—from clothing to equipment—meets the highest standards, supporting adventurers in pursuing the outdoors.
Mammut's path to sustainability: Innovating for the future.
Mammut's sustainability efforts are evident in their comprehensive approach to product design, material selection, and environmental impact reduction. Their focus is on creating durable products that last longer and can be recycled at the end of their lifecycle, embodying the principles of circularity. This approach minimizes waste and reduces the need for new materials, significantly lowering carbon emissions and advancing towards their goal of net zero by 2050, with ambitions to achieve this milestone by 2030.
An example of Mammut's commitment to sustainability is the 9.5 Crag We Care Classic Rope, made from virgin material residual yarn—unused yarn left over from production off-cuts. This product, along with the Albula HS Hooded Jacket and Pant made from 100% recycled polyester and offering PFC-free DWR, underscores Mammut's dedication to minimizing its environmental footprint. These initiatives are part of Mammut's broader goal to have a product offering that is 100% PFC-free and 90-100% bluesign approved by 2025.
Mammut's "Close the Loop" project further exemplifies their innovative approach to sustainability. By recycling old climbing ropes and transforming them into new products, such as ECONYL® regenerated nylon yarn for new t-shirts, Mammut demonstrates a practical application of circular economy principles. This project extends the life of materials and saves 67% of CO2 emissions compared to traditional production methods.
Through these initiatives and products, Mammut is actively contributing to a more sustainable future for outdoor sports, showing that high performance and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
Branding: Why Mammut and a mascot?
As an art director and designer, I love branding. Like, I geek out on it. A brand is the personality of the brand. When you understand the thinking behind a brand, I guarantee you will have a greater appreciation for it.
The name "Mammut" is the German word for "mammoth," which reflects the brand's Swiss origins and its association with strength, endurance, and the ability to thrive in cold, challenging environments, much like the prehistoric mammoths. This choice of mascot aligns with the brand's dedication to providing high-quality gear for conquering mountain peaks where snowy and harsh conditions are expected. Smart. Huh?
The bold sans-serif typeface used for the Mammut nameplate conveys a sense of power and confidence, with thick, clean lines that make the brand's visual identity more holistic and progressive. It's a very Swiss design that I love.
Mammut's specialized product lines.
Mammut's approach to outdoor gear is comprehensive and specialized, ensuring that every adventurer finds precisely what they need for their chosen activity. By segmenting its product lines based on specific outdoor activities, Mammut makes it easy for consumers to select gear optimized for performance, safety, and comfort. With its specialized product lines, let's explore how Mammut caters to various outdoor pursuits. I purchase Mammut gear for skiing as that is my outdoor pursuit. Let's dive into how Mammut caters to various outdoor pursuits.
Photo courtesy of Mammut: The ‘80s.
1. Climbing and Mountaineering: where it all got started.
At the heart of Mammut's product range lies its climbing and mountaineering gear, a nod to its origins. From harnesses that combine lightweight design with durability to climbing ropes known for their safety and reliability, Mammut offers climbers of all levels the equipment they need to tackle the vertical world. Their helmets and climbing shoes are engineered for comfort and precision, while a wide array of climbing accessories, like carabiners and quickdraws, round out a climber's essential kit.
Climbing Gear: This category includes essential climbing equipment like durable, lightweight harnesses, dynamic ropes for safety and reliability, precision-engineered climbing shoes, and various accessories such as carabiners and quickdraws. These tools are designed for climbers of all levels and are vital for scaling walls or crags.
Mountaineering Equipment: Tailored for the high-altitude adventurer, Mammut's mountaineering gear features robust equipment such as alpine harnesses, mountaineering boots, specialized ropes, and protective gear like helmets and crampons. This category is aimed at those tackling the demanding conditions of mountain environments, ensuring safety and performance on icy ascents and rugged terrains.
2. Hiking
For hikers and trekkers, Mammut provides a range of products designed to enhance the journey, regardless of the terrain. Durable and comfortable footwear featuring advanced technologies for grip and stability ensures that every step is secure. Backpacks and travel bags, available in various sizes and configurations, cater to day trips and extended expeditions alike. At the same time, specialized clothing designed with breathable and weather-resistant materials keeps adventurers comfortable in any condition. Click the link below to see hiking product.
3. Skiing
Their skiing is committed to winter sports enthusiasts—High performers. High-performance outerwear, including jackets and pants, offers protection against the elements while ensuring freedom of movement. Avalanche safety equipment, such as transceivers, probes, and shovels, is crucial for backcountry adventures, and Mammut's offerings in this category are trusted by professionals and amateurs alike. Their range also includes thermal layers, gloves, and beanies, all designed to keep the cold at bay.
4. Trail Running
Mammut's trail running gear combines lightweight design with functionality for those who find their adventure in speed and endurance. Shoes designed for trail running offer superior traction and support, easily adapting to varying terrain. Lightweight backpacks and hydration systems ensure that runners can carry essential supplies without being weighed down. At the same time, technical clothing provides moisture-wicking and breathable properties to maintain comfort during intense activity.
Mammut's Avy Hub initiative: prioritizing avalanche safety.
Mammut's Avy Hub serves as a critical resource for avalanche awareness, integrating in-person workshops, online learning, and firsthand stories to guide adventurers through avalanche terrain. It partners with the Utah Avalanche Center to offer the "Know Before You Go" program, a free online course on backcountry risk management. Completing this course not only boosts your safety knowledge but also earns you a discount on Mammut gear. The hub also includes updates for equipment like the Barryvox and airbag backpack checks, emphasizing the importance of keeping gear in top condition for safety
For those interested in Mammut's specific avalanche safety products, their Avalanche Equipment Collection encompasses a range of items designed for avalanche risk management. This includes the Barryvox transceivers, known for their reliability and ease of use, airbag backpacks that can be lifesaving in an avalanche, and other essential safety tools. Each product is crafted with Mammut's commitment to quality and innovation, ensuring adventurers are well-equipped to make smart decisions in critical moments. For a detailed look at their offerings, you can explore Mammut's Avalanche Equipment Collection on their website by clicking the button below.
The Products I Use From Mammut.
I discovered Mammut last year. I have a huge appreciation for the brand and its legacy and heritage. Below are the products that I own and use:
Cargon: I love this bag. It is flexible with lots of storage pockets inside. I use the Cargon to hold my ski equipment on and off-season.
Size: Four Sizes (40, 60, 90, 110, 140L)
Price: $134.95 - $184.95
Pro tip: Have bags for each adventure to keep your gear organized. I do for skiing and mountain biking.
Lithium 20 Women: Everyday backpack that I use for hiking and also use skiing for long runs.
Size: One (20L)
Colors: Blood red-black, Salmon-black, Marine-black, and Jade-black
Price: $109.95
Stoney HS Jacket Women: This jacket is great. I have only worn it twice. but I love it. It was warm even though a shell. I wear it in Tangerine.
Colors: Blood red, Marine-white, Black-white, and Tangerine
Price: $529.99
Photics Ski HS Thermo Hooded Jacket: This is for those super cold long days on the slopes. 100% waterproof and down. Warm! I just got this one in the mail today and will be rockin’ it on the slopes at Park City and Powder Mountain very soon. :)
Colors: Black-marine and Cheetah-marine
Price: $995.00
In Conclusion, Mammut is a Brand to Trust For Your Outdoor Adventures.
Mammut nails it for outdoor lovers, offering climbing, mountaineering, and skiing gear that hits the mark on quality and safety. Their stuff is designed for the genuine demands of the mountains, whether that's scaling rock faces or taking on snowy slopes. For skiers like me, Mammut's commitment to performance and durability means we get gear that stands up to the challenges of the sport while keeping us safe. Their focus on reliable, innovative equipment makes Mammut a trusted name for anyone looking to push their limits outdoors.
