Mammut + Nigel Cabourn: A Tribute to Female Pioneering Spirit, Craftsmanship, and Alpine History
The Mammut x Nigel Cabourn collection blends alpine tradition with modern functionality, telling a story that goes far beyond design. Its inspiration begins with the first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger North Face in 1969—one of the most direct and technically challenging routes in the Alps. At the heart of this story is Michiko Imai, the only woman to be part of the Japanese expedition team at the time. In an era when women in Switzerland still lacked voting rights, her achievement challenged mountaineering norms and paved the way for future generations.
September 19, 2025
The collection was created in close collaboration with British designer Nigel Cabourn, whose signature style is characterized by functional vintage aesthetics and a passion for storytelling. Combined with Mammut’s expertise in technical outdoor apparel, this results in a unisex collection that merges past and present, craftsmanship and innovation—creating a new form of performance wear.
Inspired by original pieces of equipment from that era, the collection uses materials proven in extreme alpine conditions: Ventile® cotton, Scottish wool, and fabrics made from Swiss army blankets. These are complemented by modern technologies such as Pertex® Quantum and DRY DOWN, ensuring a contemporary balance of insulation, breathability, and weather protection.
The individual pieces of the collection reinterpret classic silhouettes, colorways, and construction details, bridging the gap between historical authenticity and modern everyday usability. Each product thus becomes a functional tribute to pioneering spirit, technical precision, and the pursuit of the extraordinary.
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima Blanket Jacket
The Mammut x Nigel Cabourn Direttissima Blanket Jacket is the result of an exclusive collaboration with British designer Nigel Cabourn and serves as a stylistic homage to the traditional Swiss army blanket. Inspired by functional mountaineering apparel and characteristic materials of the 1960s, this unisex jacket evokes an era when alpine milestones—like the first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger—made history. Each jacket is crafted from a single army blanket made of pure British wool, offering warmth and durability through its natural insulating properties. Features such as the distinctive button placket with classic horn buttons, two patch front pockets, and the embroidered “Mammut Garantie” logo give the jacket an authentic and unmistakable look. Its relaxed fit and iconic design blend timeless aesthetics with functional heritage, making it a true testament to mountain spirit.
Unisex: Size XS–XXL | vintage earth-mammut red
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima IN Hooded Jacket
The Mammut x Nigel Cabourn Direttissima IN Hooded Jacket pays tribute to the first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger in 1969, combining historic alpinism with modern functionality. Inspired by an original quilted jacket from that era, it merges authentic retro design with contemporary functionality. The outer material is crafted from durable Pertex® Quantum, a lightweight, modern interpretation of the downproof fabric once developed for expeditions.
The jacket features a complex box-wall baffle construction that increases loft and minimizes cold spots. Details include two patch flap pockets with snap closures, a fleece-lined side pocket, and a central Riri two-way zipper with Cobrax snap buttons, emphasizing the vintage character. The hood and hem are fitted with a drawcord and embroidered eyelets, while elastic ribbed cuffs and practical inner pockets add extra comfort. An embroidered “Mammut Garantie” logo completes the design. The use of responsibly sourced down reflects a commitment to sustainable materials, making this jacket a style-defining statement that reinterprets a pioneering era in mountaineering.
Unisex: Size XXS–XXL | white stone, valley blue, mammut red
"The collaboration with Mammut means a great deal to me. We share a deep passion for outdoor clothing and exploration—both have always been the inspiration behind the Cabourn brand. We connect both of these with the 1969 Japanese Direttissima expedition on the Eiger North Face—a story that has fascinated me for many years. All of this makes this collection so unique and a true tribute to the outstanding achievement of the climbing team and their close connection to the Eiger." – Nigel Cabourn, fashion designer.
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima IN Jacket
This insulated jacket is a tribute to 1960s mountaineering apparel and was created in collaboration with iconic British designer Nigel Cabourn. Inspired by the original outfits worn during the 1969 first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger, the jacket features striking design elements from that era, translated into a modern aesthetic. The outer material, made of Pertex® Quantum®, ensures lightweight durability, while a sustainably sourced down fill provides reliable warmth. An asymmetrical button closure, based on historical originals, offers a snug fit and optimal heat retention. Additional functional details include a patch chest pocket with Cobrax snap button, two side hand pockets, and elastic ribbed cuffs add functional detail. The embroidered “Mammut Garantie” logo reinforces the authentic vintage look. Blending alpine pioneering spirit with premium craftsmanship, this jacket is a striking reflection of Mammut’s rich heritage.
Unisex: Size XXS–XXL | white stone, valley blue, mammut red
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima IN Parka
This parka is a tribute to the pioneering achievements of alpinism, created in collaboration with iconic British designer Nigel Cabourn. Inspired by 1960s mountain apparel recalling the historic first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger, the parka combines alpine history with modern craftsmanship.
The outer material is Ventile® cotton fabric, developed in the 1930s and renowned for its exceptional weather resistance in alpine conditions. The classic box-wall baffle construction with high-quality 850 cuin goose down fill ensures maximum insulation and minimizes cold spots. The parka's design is complemented by a robust Riri front zipper, a padded button and Velcro placket, an adjustable hood, and a hem with drawcord and embroidered eyelets.
Functional details include two fleece-lined bellow pockets with buttons, open chest pockets, elastic ribbed cuffs, and inner pockets for added convenience. The embroidered “Mammut Garantie” logo completes the design. Crafted with sustainably sourced materials such as Ventile® and responsibly produced down, the parka embodies timeless quality, alpine history, and modern craftsmanship.
Unisex: Size XXS–XXL | white stone, black navy
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima Wool ML Jacket
This midlayer jacket is part of an exclusive collection inspired by the alpine aesthetics and functionality of the 1960s—the era when the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger was first conquered. Created in collaboration with British designer Nigel Cabourn, this fleece jacket uniquely blends tradition and innovation. Made from high-quality Pontetorto merino wool fleece, it delivers outstanding thermal performance and recalls the preferred material of the time, when wool was essential in alpine use due to its insulating properties.
The distinctive jacquard Mammut motif and the embroidered logo—drawing inspiration from the historic "Mammut Garantie" emblem—enhance its authentic look. Two front pockets and ribbed material at the hem and cuffs add functionality and comfort. This jacket embodies the fusion of traditional design, premium craftsmanship, and the pioneering spirit of alpinism.
Unisex: Size XXS–XXL | black navy-light navy, white stone-vintage earth
"I was fascinated by the stories about the Eiger. Especially by the unique Japanese expedition in 1969, which was led in part by a woman: Michiko Imai. Her approach and the gear they used—often handmade or crafted by farmers in Japan—deeply impressed me. Combined with Mammut’s history from that era, it formed an exciting connection for me. Nigel and I realized that we could draw inspiration from Mammut’s designs of the late '60s and pay tribute to this extraordinary expedition with this collection." – Paul Cosgrove, Chief Product Officer
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima Wool ML Sweater
The Mammut x Nigel Cabourn Direttissima Wool ML Sweater is a modern reinterpretation of a historic garment and part of a collection inspired by the 1969 first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger. Created in collaboration with British designer Nigel Cabourn, the sweater is based on a version worn by the expedition team at the time. Made in one of Scotland’s most traditional knitting mills, the sweater is crafted from pure wool—a material highly valued in the 1960s for its insulating properties in alpine environments.
The fully fashioned knit construction, the vintage-style jacquard Mammut motif, and striped pattern on the cuffs and hem evoke the stylistic elements of mountaineering apparel from that era, bringing them into a modern context. The sweater combines authentic design with premium craftsmanship, exemplifying the interplay between function, tradition, and style.
Unisex: Size XXS–XXL | white stone, black navy
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima Shirt
The Mammut x Nigel Cabourn Direttissima Shirt is a modern tribute to the flannel shirts worn during alpine expeditions in the 1960s—the era when the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger was first conquered. Created in collaboration with British designer Nigel Cabourn, the shirt blends the authentic look of historical mountaineering apparel with premium details. The soft cotton fabric and the signature plaid pattern are inspired by original garments from the expedition.
Features include a button placket with genuine mother-of-pearl buttons, two buttoned chest pockets, elbow patches, and the embroidered “Mammut Garantie” logo—emphasizing the shirt's nostalgic style. Additional functional touches include two open pockets on the back. The shirt seamlessly blends timeless style with rugged everyday durability, making it a stylish tribute to alpine tradition.
Unisex: Size XXS–XXL | white stone-piton, dark shadow-valley blue
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima Baselayer
This base layer combines retro charm with functional performance. Part of a collection that pays homage to the historic first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger in the 1960s, this piece is inspired by the original one-piece worn by the expedition team. The design fuses classic elements with contemporary construction.
Made from double-knit fabric of soft cotton and temperature-regulating merino wool, it reflects the tradition of the time, when natural fibers were preferred in mountaineering. Details include a front button placket with mother-of-pearl buttons, a chest pocket with matching closure, and the rear buttoned seat opening—completing the authentic vintage look. Produced in Europe, this base layer combines high-quality craftsmanship with a slim, close-to-body fit and brings the spirit of alpine pioneering achievements into a modern design.
Unisex: Size XXS–XXL | earth
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima Cord Pant
The Mammut x Nigel Cabourn Direttissima Cord Pant is a tribute to the historic first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger North Face in 1969. It seamlessly combines functional outdoor elements with a bold vintage look. Created in collaboration with British designer Nigel Cabourn, the pants feature Sashiko-inspired repair patches that reflect the aesthetic of traditional Japanese embroidery while referencing the gear used by the expedition team of that era.
The rugged corduroy fabric recalls classic outdoor materials, while reinforced seat sections are inspired by traditional repair techniques. Practical details include two cargo pockets with horn buttons, side hand pockets, reinforced knee sections, and flap pockets with button closures on the back. Adjustable leg openings with internal drawcords and wide belt loops allow for a customizable fit. An embroidered “Mammut Garantie” logo completes the look. These pants exemplify uncompromising quality, durable materials, and a style that merges alpine tradition with urban sensibility.
Unisex: Size 42–56 | white stone, vintage earth
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima Cotton Pant
The Direttissima Cotton Pant is inspired by 1960s mountaineering apparel and was developed in collaboration with British designer Nigel Cabourn. Paying homage to the legendary first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger, these pants reinterpret the functional aesthetics of historic expedition trousers.
Made from Ventile® cotton fabric—originally developed in the 1930s and later used as a weatherproof outer layer in mountaineering—these pants combine durability with traditional detailing. Features include two cargo pockets with horn buttons, reinforced knee sections, Sashiko-inspired repair patches, and an elastic waistband with drawcord for comfort and resilience. A gusseted crotch allows for maximum freedom of movement, while a back pocket and welt pocket provide practical functionality. The embroidered “Mammut Garantie” logo completes the design.
These pants embody a spirit of adventure, authentic style, and premium craftsmanship—a modern homage to the legacy of historic mountain expeditions.
Unisex: Size 42–56 | black navy, earth
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima Beanie
The Mammut x Nigel Cabourn Direttissima Beanie is part of a special collaboration honoring the legendary first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger in 1969. Inspired by the fabrics and designs of alpine expedition style from that era, this beanie combines functionality with authenticity. Crafted in one of Scotland’s most renowned knitting mills, it is made from 100% wool—a material highly valued in the 1960s for its insulating and durable properties in mountaineering.
The distinctive jacquard Mammut motif underscores the beanie’s iconic look, while European production and responsibly sourced wool underpin the collection’s commitment to sustainability. With its simple design and premium craftsmanship, this beanie represents timeless style and truly embodies the alpine pioneering spirit.
Unisex: Size one size | white stone, black navy
Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima Silk Scarf
This silk scarf is a statement accessory that unites alpine history and international craftsmanship in a unique design. Created in collaboration with iconic British designer Nigel Cabourn, the scarf is part of a collection honoring the first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima on the Eiger in 1969—a remarkable achievement by a young team of mountaineers, including a woman, who established one of the most demanding routes in the Alps.
The scarf’s design references a historic Mammut motif rooted in the brand’s textile heritage in Chamonix, where Mammut was producing mountaineering apparel as early as the 1960s. Handcrafted in Japan, the scarf pays homage to the origin of the expedition team while fusing Swiss design tradition with the finest Japanese silk craftsmanship. The Mammut x Cabourn Direttissima Silk Scarf symbolizes the seamless blend of culture, craftsmanship, and alpine pioneering achievement.
Unisex: Size one size | white stone-mammut red
The limited collection will be unveiled to the public in September 2025 at London Fashion Week and will subsequently be available on mammut.com and through selected retailers.
Product images for Download
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Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Blanket Jacket 1012 01020 7560 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima IN Hooded Jacket 1013 04240 00828 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima IN Hooded Jacket 1013 04240 3778 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima IN Hooded Jacket 1013 04240 50655 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima IN Jacket 1013 04250 00828 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima IN Jacket 1013 04250 3778 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima IN Jacket 1013 04250 50655 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima IN Parka 1013 04230 00828 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima IN Parka 1013 04230 00829 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Wool ML Jacket 1014 07050 00831 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Wool ML Jacket 1014 07050 00830 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Wool ML Sweater 1014 07060 00828 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Wool ML Sweater 1014 07060 00829 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Shirt 1015 01730 00832 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Shirt 1015 01730 7559 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Baselayer 1016 01970 7557 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Cord Pant 1022 02830 7558 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Cord Pant 1022 02830 00828 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Cotton Pant 1022 02840 00829 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Cotton Pant 1022 02840 7557 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Beanie 1191 02140 00828 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Beanie 1191 02140 00829 Main
Mammut X Cabourn Direttissima Silk Scarf 1192 00240 00833 MainAction images for Download – © Mammut
About Nigel Cabourn
Nigel Cabourn has been a singular force in the world of design for over five decades. Unconcerned with fleeting fashion trends, he is dedicated to creating functional clothing made not for the runway, but for real life—inspired by history, craftsmanship, and a deep fascination with the untamed. Rooted in the rugged landscapes of Northern England, he draws his creative energy from wind, cold, and the stories that live on in old garments.
His personal archive of over 4,000 historical originals—including military gear, expedition clothing, and artifacts from great explorers—forms the foundation of his work. Each of these pieces is a fragment of lived history that Cabourn carefully analyzes, curates, and reinterprets in new contexts. His designs are more than aesthetic tributes—they are expressions of respect for the people who once wore them.
This fusion of authenticity, functionality, and narrative depth makes Nigel Cabourn’s work truly unique. His designs feel timeless because they rely not on spectacle, but on substance. They speak of resilience, a spirit of adventure, and an unwavering will to break new ground—in the spirit of those who once made history.
About the Japanese Direttissima
In the summer of 1969, a Japanese expedition team achieved the first ascent of the Japanese Direttissima, the most direct route through the North Face of the Eiger in Switzerland. Even then, the Eiger was known for its extreme conditions and was considered one of the greatest challenges in alpine mountaineering. The route demanded utmost precision, physical endurance, and mental resolve. It marked a milestone in the history of alpinism.
Part of the six-member team was Michiko Imai, who became the first woman to climb the Eiger via this route. At a time when women in Switzerland still had no voting rights, her presence on the expedition was far more than just a sporting achievement. Although Michiko never sought the spotlight, her calm demeanor, skill, and determination made her a figure of exceptional presence. As a doctor, alpinist, and quietly pioneering figure, she set an example of independence and courage.
Over fifty years later, Michiko returned to the place that had shaped her life. At age 83, she once again stood before the wall she had conquered so many years earlier. During conversations, she shared her memories, her reflections on that time, and her enduring passion for mountaineering. For Nigel Cabourn, her story was a central source of inspiration. His deep connection to real-life stories played a key role in shaping the collection's design.
As part of the project, one of the most iconic images from the first ascent was reinterpreted. It depicts Michiko suspended on a rope in the Eiger North Face, hovering in front of the rock wall. In the new staging, Japanese athlete Yuka Kobayashi takes on this role, dressed in a piece from the Cabourn collection. The photograph bridges past and present in a powerful moment—a visual tribute to a historic achievement and a reflection of a design that respectfully brings alpine history into the present.
About Mammut
Founded in 1862, Mammut is a Swiss outdoor company that provides high-quality products and unique brand experiences for fans of mountain sports around the world. This leading international premium brand has stood for safety and pioneering innovation for more than 160 years. Mammut products combine functionality and performance with contemporary design. With its combination of hardware, shoes and clothing, Mammut is one of the most complete suppliers in the outdoor market. Mammut Sports Group AG operates in around 40 countries and employs around 850 people.
