More freedom, more comfort. The trajectory of innovative climbing pants,
1982 | California, USA | Mike Graham

In the 1970s, in Yosemite National Park, California, on the west coast of the United States, young people challenged towering granite cliffs with only a safety rope. In an era still tinged with the spirit of hippie culture, they were known as the "Stone Masters," pursuing a free style of climbing unbound by existing rules. At the heart of this movement was a man who would later become a legend: Mike Graham. He was the founder of GRAMICCI.

Climbing wear at the time was far from comfortable. Sturdy denim or work pants made it impossible to perform the delicate footwork required on rock faces. Mike Graham's quest for clothing that offered more freedom, more comfort, and would allow him to perform at his best, eventually led him to decide to bring his ideal to life. In 1982, in a small garage in California, the brand named "Gramicci," after the nickname Graham had given himself, was quietly born.

Gramicci's innovations in the world of climbing pants can be summarized in two original details. One is the "gusseted crotch," which allows for 180-degree leg movement. This allows climbers to face the rock without any restriction of their range of motion. Incidentally, it is said that the idea of adding a diamond-shaped gusset to the crotch area was inspired by the fluid movements of Bruce Lee, the star of kung fu movies. The other is the "webbing belt," which allows for instant waist adjustment with one hand. This feature, inspired by backpack harnesses, was groundbreaking as it allowed for quick adjustment of the fit even while climbing. These features are truly inventions by climbers, for climbers. The design, which was inevitably derived from functionality, reached the pinnacle of ultimate functional beauty. Thus, the "GRAMICCI PANT" and "G-SHORTS" were born and quickly captivated climbers across America.

The trend spread across the Pacific Ocean to Japan from the late 1980s to the 1990s. The driving force behind it was select shop buyers with a keen aesthetic sense. They proposed Gramicci pants not only for the mountains but also as a fashion item to be worn in the city. The toughness derived from climbing, the comfortable fit, and the refined silhouette captured the hearts of fashion-conscious young people, and Gramicci established itself as a staple in the street scene.

The brand's evolution never stops. Responding to the needs of the times, they developed the "NN-PANT" series with a sharper silhouette. Furthermore, corduroy pants have gained popularity as a staple material for autumn and winter, expanding the variety of materials and designs and continuously attracting new fans. They also actively collaborate with renowned fashion brands and select shops, constantly updating their presence.

A pair of pants born from a challenge to nature. It is the culmination of founder Mike Graham's free spirit and pure passion for pursuing functionality. Born as gear for climbing rock faces, it became a street icon, and now it is a universal garment that is a part of everyone's daily life. Gramicci will continue to climb to even greater heights with the times.