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Cimalp technical clothing: innovation, materials, and mountain apparel

di - 06/08/2026

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There are brands whose history is intertwined with the evolution of mountain clothing. CIMALP is one of them. Founded in 1964 in the French Alps by mountaineer Paul Sailler, the company was born with a specific goal: to develop technical clothing capable of accompanying those who live in the mountains, offering maximum freedom of movement, comfort, and protection.

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Over sixty years of innovation serving the outdoors

The first idea that would shape the brand’s journey was the introduction of Lycra into traditional corduroy mountaineering pants. An innovative solution for the time, it improved elasticity and comfort, quickly becoming one of the brand’s symbols and accompanying numerous French expeditions to the highest mountains on the planet.

From large expeditions to the search for increasingly high-performance materials

Over the years, CIMALP has continued to develop technical products, testing them in the most extreme environments. Expeditions to the Himalayas, Antarctica, Mount Vinson, and Laurence de la Ferrière’s historic solo crossing of the South Pole have provided natural laboratories for testing materials and technologies in extreme conditions.

These experiences have allowed us to design increasingly effective garments against wind, snow, humidity, and low temperatures, maintaining a balance between protection, lightness, and breathability.

In 2005, Lionel Marsanne took over the family business and chose to focus on direct online sales, anticipating the evolution of e-commerce. By eliminating intermediaries, the brand reinvested much of its resources in research and development, allowing it to offer highly technical products at a more competitive price.

Proprietary technologies designed to tackle any environment

At the same time, work on materials is also growing, leading to the creation of proprietary technologies that have now become the core of CIMALP’s offering.

Among the most important we find:

  • 3D-Flex®, developed in 2004 to offer greater elasticity and freedom of movement.
  • Ultrashell®, introduced in 2012, with waterproofness up to 20,000 Schmerber and breathability of 80,000 MVP.
  • Cimadry Cyclone®, awarded the French Outdoor Award in 2015.

The goal remains the same: to create garments that protect without restricting movement, ensuring comfort during activities ranging from trekking to high-altitude expeditions.

An approach to sustainability based on durability

For CIMALP, sustainability begins with quality construction. A technical garment must offer high performance, but above all, be designed to last, facilitating repair, reuse, and longer product life.

A philosophy that interprets sustainability as a natural consequence of design and choice of materials.

Below is a selection of some of the most representative products from the CIMALP collection, designed to accompany hikers, mountaineers and trail runners on their adventures.

ADVANCED

The Ultrashell® waterproof jacket for all conditions

The Advanced is a waterproof jacket designed to offer the best balance of protection and lightweight. Ideal for mountaineering, ski mountaineering, and hiking, it uses the Ultrashell® membrane, capable of guaranteeing 20,000 Schmerber waterproofing and 80,000 MVP breathability, keeping you dry even during the most intense efforts.

Main features

  • Three-point adjustable, helmet-compatible hood.
  • Collar with magnetic fastening system.
  • Water-resistant YKK Aquaguard zippers.
  • Ventilation openings under the armpits.
  • High pockets compatible with harness and backpack.
  • Integrated RECCO® reflector.
  • Fully taped seams.

Ultrashell® Technology

The Ultrashell® membrane combines:

  • high impermeability;
  • excellent breathability;
  • wind protection;
  • Durable construction for intensive use in alpine environments.

Weight: 410 g (size M)

Buy it here

FAST 3 H EVO

Ultralight stretch trousers for trekking and mountaineering

The Fast 3 H Evo are technical trousers designed for fast trekking, hiking, Nordic walking, and mountaineering. The stretch fabric and ergonomic cut allow for maximum freedom of movement both uphill and downhill.

Main features

  • Leg bottom with non-slip silicone.
  • Back zip pocket.
  • Adjustable elasticated waistband.
  • Anti-abrasion reinforcements.
  • Pre-shaped knees.

Cimaflex technology

Cimaflex technology offers:

  • high elasticity stretch fabric;
  • water repellent treatment;
  • high comfort during dynamic activities;
  • long lasting over time.

Weight: 310 g (size M)

Buy it here

LAVAREDO TEAM

Trail running shorts with multi-pocket belt

The Lavaredo Team are trail running shorts designed for long distances. The integrated over-the-knee construction ensures stability while running, while the multi-pocket waistband allows you to carry everything you need without a backpack.

The SS26 limited edition is inspired by the Vercors landscapes, reinterpreting their colors and geometries.

Main features

  • Multi-pocket belt.
  • Integrated elasticated cuissard.
  • Reflective details.
  • Quick-drying stretch fabric.

Cimaflex Plus technology

This technology offers:

  • high elasticity;
  • effective humidity management;
  • comfort even during the most intense efforts;
  • materials that last over time.

Weight: 140 g (size M)

Buy it here

CLAPIER

Merino wool T-shirt for trekking and travel

The Clapier is a technical merino wool T-shirt designed for trekking, mountaineering, and travel. The fiber’s natural properties help regulate body temperature, manage moisture, and reduce odors even after long hours of use.

Main features

  • Naturally odor-resistant merino wool.
  • Comfortable fit.
  • Softness on the skin.

Cimawool technology

Cimawool technology enhances the qualities of merino wool:

  • natural thermal regulation;
  • high breathability;
  • odor control;
  • comfort and durability over time.

Weight: 115 g (size M)

Buy it here

Cimalp clapier t-shirt

Diplomato in Arti Grafiche, Laureato in Architettura con specializzazione in Design al Politecnico di Milano, un Master in Digital Marketing. Giornalista dal 2005 è direttore di 4Actionmedia dal 2015. Grande appassionato di sport e attività Outdoor, ha all'attivo alcune discese di sci ripido (50°) sul Monte Bianco e Monte Rosa, mezze maratone, alcune vie di alpinismo sulle alpi e surf in Indonesia.