Nigel Cabourn salutes the spirit of mountaineeri

Nigel Cabourn salutes the spirit of mountaineering with Mammut

22/09/2025

Newcastle-based fashion designer Nigel Cabourn has created a capsule collection for Swiss outdoor brand Mammut which hails back to an expedition to the Eiger North Face by a Japanese team in 1969. Michiko Imai, its only female member, became the first woman to participate in a first ascent of Switzerland’s emblematic peak. The 27-year-old, at the time, who was the expedition’s medical doctor, helped establish a new, direct route aptly called the “Direttissima”.

Direttissima is the name given to the 12-piece capsule collection, which launches on October 1st. The designer known for his reworking of vintage workwear, drew inspiration from the equipment worn by the team in 1969. It features old school materials such as weatherproof Ventile cotton, Scottish wool and Swiss Army blanket fabric. They are paired with modern-day technologies, Pertex Quantum lining and Dry Down. The result is a series of heritage garments that can be worn on and off the mountains.

“This collaboration is not about nostalgia, it’s about honouring the grit, innovation and international spirit of mountaineering,” commented Nigel Cabourn. “Michiko’s story, and the entire Japanese team’s achievement, is a powerful reminder of what humans can accomplish in the mountains.”

Image courtesy of Mammut shows Nigel Cabourn with Michiko Imai

Nigel Cabourn salutes the spirit of mountaineeri - sportstextiles: Lea

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Nigel Cabourn salutes the spirit of mountaineering with Mammut

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