The pinnacle of down jackets.
1975 | OSAKA, JAPAN | Isamu Tatsuno
Mont-bell was founded in 1975 by Isamu Tatsuno, who had been mountaineering since his boyhood and running a climbing school, together with his mountaineering friends, Fumihiko Masaki and Sachiko Masuo. The company incorporates the latest technologies and materials from both Japan and abroad, and conducts research and development of lightweight sleeping bags and rain gear that are well-suited to Japan's rainy and humid climate.
In the early days of his company, Tatsuno became acquainted with Yvon Schnard, the founder of Patagonia, and worked diligently to popularize the brand in Japan as its agent, while also jointly developing many products. However, wanting to focus on developing his own brand, he soon withdrew from the agency business.
In 1978, they commercialized "Orlon Fleece," Japan's first lightweight and highly insulating fleece. In the 1980s, they developed soft luggage using DuPont's Cordura nylon, and further collaborated with textile manufacturers to commercialize their original ballistic nylon. They have continued to bring innovation to the outdoor scene by proactively developing and adopting new materials. In 1989, Masako Izumi successfully reached the North Pole wearing the company's jackets and underwear, making the company known to people beyond just outdoor enthusiasts.
In 2008, they released the EX Light Down Jacket, the world's lightest down jacket. Its lightness, averaging 150 grams, and simple beauty helped establish the inner down jacket genre not only among outdoor enthusiasts but also among fashionistas.
Mont-bell's manufacturing philosophy is based on the concept of "making what we ourselves want." Employees who are avid outdoor enthusiasts contribute ideas, and products are developed while incorporating feedback from the field. Furthermore, they conduct in-house testing to ensure high durability and also provide repair services. By creating a system that allows them to be involved in everything from the planning stage to after-sales care, they continue to release products that can perform even in harsh conditions.