Japanese brand Snow Peak announced its move into apparel, with the pieces to be on display at this week’s Outdoor Retailer Show. The SS15 collection designed by Lisa Yamai, the granddaughter of founder Yukio Yamai, finds its roots in camping with every piece delivering functionality in the outdoors while offering wearability in urban environments, says the company.
The collection, available for men and women, features functional, minimal garments that are designed to stand up to the elements – a reflection of the balance in Snow Peak’s commitment to progress and quality. The color palette is a blend of cool, monochromatic greys and blues accented by sophisticated, cotton plaids infused with hemp for textural interest. The collection finds influence in traditional Japanese outdoor and workwear. The Noragi Jacket and Pants, for example, are updated versions of the Noragi silhouette, a minimal, kimono style garment that is the foundation of Japanese outdoor gear.
“I am fascinated with the notion of back and forth – the daily transit, between our city lives and our favorite outdoor activities,” says Yamai. “Snow Peak apparel is ‘Clothing for the Journey’. It’s designed to take you from work to an early evening hike with out having to change clothes.”
The fabrics, sourced from Japan, include three-layer eVent utilized in rain jacket and pants; lightweight DWR Rip-Stop for wind/rain jackets and pant; linen as a lightweight, all natural and versatile fabric for camping; premium, traditional, Japanese indigo fabric; and cotton and hemp yarn dye plaid.
“Our apparel is a natural extension of the Snow Peak brand,” says Nate Borne, Snow Peak US general manager. “The release aligns with trends were seeing in both the fashion and high-end outdoor markets: people want clothes that look and feel as good as they function.”
