by Seth Levy
Black Diamond, which sprang from the ashes of Yvon Chouinard piton-forging business, Chouinard Equipment, has a long tradition of engineering technical equipment. Now, for the first time since the company formed 25 years ago, Black Diamond is bringing the full force of its materials design and engineering prowess to bear on a new apparel line for climbers, skiers, and mountaineers.
Stance Belay Parka with Solution 1/4 Zip fleece.
The fall 2013 collection includes men's fleece, softshells, and synthetic insulation with materials from Schoeller, Polartec, PrimaLoft and Pertex. The pieces feature subdued colors and exciting technical features.
For example, Black Diamond partnered with zipper-maker YKK to develop the new Vizion zipper, featuring flatter teeth and an improved DWR coating for more water resistance and better performance. The Dawn Patrol Approach Pant features embedded RECCO reflectors to facilitate rescue in the event of an avalanche.
The 2013 Black Diamond line includes three collections: Dawn Patrol, Access insulation for movement, Stance belay insulation, and fleece.
Here are a few highlights from Black Diamond Equipment's new line of technical apparel for fall 2013.
Dawn Patrol Hybrid Shell
For situations where demanding terrain and wide-ranging weather predominate, movement matters. The Dawn Patrol Hybrid Shell (pictures at top) delivers a combination of active and protective benefits without weight, restriction, or compromise.
Features: Adjustable, helmet-compatible hood, two oversize chest pockets, internal stretch media pocket with port, two zipped hand pockets, two interior drop pockets, Velcro cuff closure system, drawcord hem.
Materials: Schoeller StretchWoven nylon shell with a body-mapped, three-layer waterproof laminate with tricot backer and NanoSphere Technology.
Weight: 16.93 oz / 480 g
Price: $349
Access Hybrid Hoody
Access Hybrid Hoody with Coefficient Hoody
The Access Hybrid Hoody’s mixed approach to materials incorporates the durability of ripstop and the agility of stretch panels. It insulates on ice and on rock and is built for movement and warmth. BD also will offer an Access Hybrid Jacket and Access Hybrid Vest.
Materials: Pertex Eco Quantum nylon ripstop shell (made from recycled materials) with DWR, PrimaLoft One insulation, Schoeller StretchWoven nylon side panels with NanoSphereTechnology.
Features: Adjustable, helmet-compatible hood, chest pocket, two zipped hand pockets, two interior drop pockets, stretch gusset cuffs, drawcord hem.
Weight: 17.28 oz / 490 g
MSRP: $249
Coefficient Hoody
Black Diamond addressed three critical needs with the Coefficient—warmth, breathability, and fast dry times. The Coefficient Hoody delivers with stretch, maneuverability, and durability.
Fabric: Polartec Power Dry High Efficiency fleece
Features: Under-the-helmet hood, chamois-lined neck, chest pocket, stretch cuff.
Weight: 12.17 oz / 345 g
MSRP: $159
Consumers can expect to see other categories of Black Diamond apparel come online over the next three years, including alpine climbing and cotton garments for spring 2014; hardshells, down, and women's outerwear in fall 2014, and women's climbing and rainwear in spring 2015.
