Montane, Who are they?
Meet Montane, the brand that insists you can indeed conquer mountains without sacrificing comfort or style. The UK-based company specializes in creating top-notch outdoor gear that’s as light as a feather and tough as old boots. Montane is all about performance-driven apparel designed for adventurers, climbers, and those who simply enjoy getting lost in nature, preferably while wearing something that won’t make them look like a walking tent. So, whether you’re scaling peaks or just trying to navigate the grocery store, Montane has your back, quite literally.
Montane, The History
Montane’s story began in 1993, founded by explorers Chris Roff and Jake Doxat, born from their passion for the outdoors, realising that outdoor gear could be both functional and fabulous. Picture two young adventurers, fed up with clunky jackets that felt like wearing sleeping bags, decided to change the game. Fast forward a few decades and we have Montane, a company committed to innovation, pioneering the use of lightweight materials that keep you warm and dry while ensuring you don’t resemble a marshmallow on the slopes.
Montane Nordes Ski Touring Collection
The Nordes collection is the gear that makes ski touring not just possible, but rather stylish to boot. Designed for those who live for the thrill of carving down slopes or summiting peaks using just the tartiflette they consumed at lunch, the Nordes collection boasts ridiculously lightweight jackets and pants that are both functional and fashionable. The Nordes collection provides weather resistance and breathability as if they were designed by a team of scientists/tailors hidden away in some secret laboratory. So, whether you’re gliding through deep powder or just hanging at the local après-ski bar, the Nordes collection has got you covered. If it makes you look good while doing it, then why not?
The Nordes collection consists of Jacket and Pant for both men and women. The Nordes Hooded Softshell Jacket will become one of your favourite articles of clothing… unfathomably light, breathable, well-tailored and packs up particularly small. With its adjustable hood and cuffs, you can customise your fit while keeping the elements at bay.
One of my bugbears is pockets that end up under rucksack straps, so the two pairs of pockets, situated at the waist and the chest are ideally positioned. Perfect for stashing snacks, hats and glasses and ‘gunslinger fast’ access to your mobile.
Meanwhile, the Nordes Softshell Pants are designed for movement, with well-placed stretch fabric ensuring you won’t feel restricted like a stuffed sausage while navigating tricky terrains. They have a water-resistant finish, so a little drizzle won’t ruin your day.
For the ladies, the Nordes Hooded Softshell Jacket and Nordes Softshell Pants are tailored specifically for a feminine fit without skimping on functionality. The jacket features a flattering silhouette, while the pants are all about freedom of movement. Together, they create a look that says, “I conquer mountains and look fabulous doing it.” So, whether you’re climbing K2 or just charging down the mountainside, the Nordes collection ensures you do it in style.
Montane Down Jackets
Montane has a great collection of down jackets designed for varying activities. We tried a couple of models which both would fit under, as well as outside our Nordes jackets.
When the temperature drops, the Men’s Alpine 850 Hooded Down Jacket is now my ultimate sidekick. Packed to the rafters with high-quality 850 fill power down, the jacket provides warmth that feels like a cosy hug from a Polar Bear, the friendly kind obviously. Lightweight yet incredibly effective at keeping the cold at bay, it’s perfect at the end of a long ski tour up, skiing through the powder or simply wandering through the ski resort. The Alpine 850 is also water-resistant, so you can brave the elements without turning into a soggy noodle.
For the ladies, Charlotte tried the the Women’s Anti-Freeze XT Hooded Down Jacket, it is the chic way to protect yourself from the winter chills. Featuring 750-fill power down, this jacket combines warmth and style, making you look like a winter goddess while ensuring you don’t freeze into a popsicle. With its water-resistant outer fabric and flattering cut, it’s designed for those who want to ride the whole mountain. Stay warm, look fabulous, and enjoy the great outdoors… what more could you ask for?
Montane and Ecology
Montane is deeply committed to ecological sustainability through its “Further Forever” initiative, which focuses on preserving the natural environments that outdoor enthusiasts cherish. At the heart of this commitment is the responsible sourcing of materials. Montane prioritizes high-performance fabrics that minimize environmental impact, including ethically sourced down insulation that ensures humane treatment of birds. They also incorporate recycled materials into their products, reducing waste and the need for new resources.
In addition to material sourcing, Montane actively works to lower its carbon footprint. By optimizing their supply chain and partnering with eco-conscious suppliers, they strive for energy efficiency in transportation and manufacturing processes.
Montane’s focus on durability means its products are designed to last, encouraging a culture of repair rather than disposal. Their repair service prolongs the life of gear, reducing waste in landfills.
Furthermore, Montane engages with conservation initiatives to protect the ecosystems that inspire adventure. By supporting habitat restoration and climate action projects, Montane demonstrates that outdoor exploration and ecological responsibility can go hand in hand, ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy the great outdoors.
For more information visit Montane.
