Our Innovation

Radical Thinking. It's why we were founded and what drives us every day. We continually invent (and re-invent) the most functional and innovative gear available, and are proud that we've changed the industry as a result. Here are some of our highlights.   Another Mountain Hardwear First
This Spring, we introduce our Coolwave Suspension system - making athletic backpacks more lightweight and dynamic while providing superb ventilation. Our proprietary Hardwave framesheet allows the pack to flex with your body while staying flat and strong in the horizontal plane – comfortably distributing the load up the back panel. Mesh and airspace create excellent ventilation and cooling comfort.
 

A History of Innovation

Year Innovation Awards
2010
  • Introduced Coolwave Suspension System to athletic packs
Best of Adventure Gear 2010
2009
  • Developed Hardwave Framesheet for backpacks, providing a superb carry while maintaining flexibility
  • Introduced MicroClimate Zoning™ in aerobic apparel
  • Pioneered industry-leading 100 Wash DWR finish on Expedition Down sleeping bags. Five times more durable than conventional DWRs.
  • Developed Advanced Fit-Lock™ hipbelt to maximize load transfer and comfort on long haul backpack trips
Editor's Choice Summer 2009 Outdoor Editor's Choice Summer 2009 Outdoor
2008
  • Launched the Red Savina Heated Glove - the next generation of heated glove technology with Aevex® Intelligent Heat™
  • Developed Terra Shell fabric - 3 Layer Conduit™ with an industry-leading 40,000 MVTR breathability rating and a 20,000mm waterproof rating
  • Introduced MicroClimate Zoning™ within Baselayer product line
  • Developed ultralight Hollowcore 25D nylon rainfly
  • Introduced the weight-saving, variable diameter Atlas UL tent pole
  • Developed superlight grommet tab system for Tents
  • Evolved the FitLock harness into a unique full-torso weight distribution system
Kramer Jacket Wins Best of Adventure 2008
2007
  • Thermic Micro™ Insulation
  • Partnered with Gore to develop the world's first women's-specific WINDSTOPPER® fabrics
  • Pioneered Pro Shell with Micro-Grid Backer and the use of 8 mm seam tape
  • Revolutionized waterproof/breathable with Incite™ fabric and the Quark and Stimulus Jackets
  • Introduced fully-welded, waterproof glove
Outside Gear Award 
2006 Torch JacketBeryllium Jacket
2005
  • First fully welded soft shell garment featuring our z-Weld seam
  • Atlas Poles
  • Welded down garments
Absolute Zero Parka
2004
  • Hybrid construction soft shell
Gear Outside AwardEV2 Tent
2003 Gear Outside Award ISPO
2002
  • Pioneered "Weatherprotective" soft shell garments with Windstopper®
2001
  • PowerClip for tents
  • Partnered with Gore® to develop Windstopper® next-to-skin garment fabric
Editor's Choice Award
2000
  • Pioneered Gore-Tex® XCR®
American Alpine Institute Award
1999 Editor's Choice Award
1998
  • Simplex zipper closure
  • Welded technology first used in apparel
 
1997  
1996 Editor's Choice Award
1995  
1994  
1993
  • Mountain Hardwear founded