Storm 450

• Eco Initiatives:Black Diamond supports environmental not-for-profits, whilst making concerted efforts to use renewable energy and recycle as much waste as possible

The Black Diamond story began with a backyard anvil and a hammer, way back in 1957. The hammer in question was wielded by famous US climber Yvon Chouinard – the same man who would also go on to create outdoor brand Patagonia. Chouinard started hand-forging climbing hardware, selling steel pitons from the back of his car in the hallowed Yosemite Valley. Over the years, that fledgling business morphed into Black Diamond, with Chouinard eventually handing over the reins to an equally dedicated group of former employees.

Steeped in mountain heritage, the brand has continued to build on its legacy through innovative, user-driven design, built for demanding adventures on rock, ice and snow. Today, they make a lot more than merely hardware. Which means that Black Diamond isn’t just for climbers, mountaineers and skiers – their duffel bags, headlamps, lanterns and gloves are all much-loved by hikers, backpackers, campers and global travellers alike.

When it comes to sustainability, the brand also strives to stay true to Chouinard’s original ‘clean climbing’ ethos. As a brand, Black Diamond supports environmental not-for-profits, whilst making concerted efforts to use renewable energy and recycle as much waste as possible. But above all, they believe in sustainability through longevity, which means making kit that will stand the toughest test of all: time.