Berghaus Brand Book Final 28.05.2012

“It’s not really about getting to the top — it’s about pushing yourself and expanding your limits. Sharing these moments leads to unique friendships”Leo Houlding

Jason Pickles, Leo Houlding, Chris Rabone, Sean Leary (l-r) at the summit of Mount Asgard, 2009

“Completing an extreme climb is tough but I’m always looking for new challenges — for ways to push myself a little further with every adventure. That’s what makes me feel alive” Kim Mi Gon

Kim Mi Gon on the Manaslu expedition in Nepal, 2011

Michelle Bladon and Susie Burt (right) in Chamonix, 2012

“Outdoors is what I love to do. I still get a rush, whether skiing a new line or finishing a trail running race. It’s my release”Susie Burt

“The outdoors is a fantastic playground, whether enjoying it close to home or exploring the far flung parts of the world”Sir Chris Bonington

Sir Chris Bonington on Menlungtse in China, 1988

We know the outdoors and we know how exhilarating the outdoors can be —we’ve been there for more than 45 years.

The Berghaus story is one of endless innovation and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

We believe passionately that our products make a real difference to the people who use them — whether they’re running, climbing, skiing, hiking or biking.

Our philosophy is simple — we inspire people to get out there, to escape the routine, to discover their surroundings. To live in the moment.

Berghaus. Live for Adventure.

We are Berghaus.

We are the outdoor brand you can trust to take you anywhere.

Mick Fowler at base camp on the first ascent to Mugu Chuli in Nepal, 2011

100% belief and passion.

We believe in our brand and our products — we all use them.

Consumer driven.

Continuously driving consumer understanding to inspire and engage.

Performance is king. We make products that deliver on promises and everything we do, we do for a reason.

Born in the outdoors.

It’s our heritage, our focus, our passion and our future.

Lead. Don’t follow.

Our commitment to innovation and continous product development means we are always pushing the boundaries.

Adventurous.

Our business is built on adventure. One that began in 1966 and continues everyday.

Uncompromised performance.

England, 1966. Two men with a love of adventure decide to bring high-quality outdoor gear to Britain. They end up revolutionising the industry.

Back in the late sixties, outdoor gear as we know it didn’t really exist in the UK. Clothing was likely to be made of cotton and wool, and backpacks built with uncomfortable external frames.

In the spirit of the decade, two men with a taste for adventure and a passion for the outdoors decided it was time for a change.

Frustrated by the lack of quality products, their aim was to provide decent, durable, weatherproof kit for enthusiasts like themselves.

Their names were Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison, and LD Mountain Centre — the small outlet they established in Newcastle, UK that year — earned an immediate reputation for excellence among climbers.

The pair went from selling imported products to designing and making their own, under the label Berghaus (German for ‘mountain centre’).

From the very beginning, the brand’s innovative, experimental approach placed Berghaus at the cutting edge of product design.

Among the first breakthrough pieces of kit were the Cyclops, arguably the world’s first ‘internal frame’ rucksack, and the iconic Yeti® Gaiter. Both these remarkable products continue in updated form to feature in the Berghaus range — a testament to the enduring vision of the founding partners.

Famed mountaineer Sir Chris Bonington was one of the company’s earliest ambassadors, and in 1985 he wore Berghaus ‘officially’ when he achieved a lifetime ambition, at the age of 50, by climbing Everest. His strong association with the brand continues to this day, and he has been joined by a new generation of advocates in a range of disciplines, from extreme climber Leo Houlding to daredevil snowkiter Julia Pickering.

Our athletes advise, test and push the boundaries of what’s possible, working closely at all stages of development and design with our product teams. Their input has helped us create a range of equipment that inspires everyone, from adrenaline junkies to weekend walkers.

Today, as Berghaus continues its evolution from local start-up to a leading global brand, with a growing number of outlets in Asia and renewed presence in continental Europe, the focus on innovation and performance continues.

So too does our insistence on authenticity. Many of our staff are actively involved in a range of outdoor pursuits, ensuring that the kit we produce for consumers is developed to meet our own exacting standards. Like Lockey and Davison, we’re making great outdoor gear because we love the great outdoors.

This is our story.

Did you know?The first product to carry our logo was a very simple, lightweight tent.

Sir Chris Bonington with Berghaus founders Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison on a walk in the Lake District, shortly after he joined Berghaus in 1984 as a sponsored climber. “Peter and Gordon often went for walks together to talk about business, and sometimes I accompanied them,” recalls Sir Chris.

“I’ve been working with the brand for 30 years and there’s always been a strong feeling for innovation. And there’s an incredible enthusiasm within the brand — it’s clear to me that the people in the company are real outdoor people”

Sir Chris Bonington

1980—

1978Berghaus develops the waterproof Yeti® Gaiter — an instant classic that is still seen as one of the most significant developments in outdoor clothing.

1977Berghaus leads the way by introducing the then relatively unknown waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX® fabric into some of its products — the first European brand to do so on a commercial level.

1985Sir Chris Bonington, a Berghaus sponsored athlete, climbs Everest for the first time.

1980sBerghaus starts to produce performance gear specifically for women — starting with skiwear in the early 1980s — one of the first outdoor companies to do so.

1986Extrem™ range is launched.

1966Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison set up LD Mountain Centre in Newcastle, England, to sell the best outdoor gear from around the world. The following year they rename it Berghaus — German for ‘mountain centre’. Inspired by the needs of climbers like themselves, they begin to create and test their own branded clothing and equipment. The first Berghaus-branded product, launched in 1970, is a lightweight tent.

Tracing our past.

1977Doug Scott and Sir Chris Bonington reach the summit of the Ogre. The descent was fateful — on the first rappel from the summit, Scott broke both legs. Later, Bonington broke two ribs and contracted pneumonia.

1960— 1970—1974 — 75Cyclops, the world’s first rucksack with an internal frame, is launched.

1988Berghaus’ international sales success is recognised with the Queen’s Award for Export Achievement. The brand is also named Northern Business Awards Exporter of the Year.

1998Alex Huber, extreme alpine climber and Berghaus athlete, completes the first ever ascent of the North America wall on El Capitan and names it El Nino. Shortly afterwards, the 18-year-old Leo Houlding — who would later become a key part of the Berghaus team — makes the second ascent.

2010Opening of the third UK flagship store at Broadmead, Bristol — the first in the South West of England.

2006Royal recognition — the Queen’s Award for innovation in the design and technical development of outdoor products — confirms Berghaus’ status as an iconic UK brand.

2008Launch of a bold cinema commercial, aired during showings of the James Bond film Quantum Of Solace. The ad, featuring a heart-stopping base jump by Berghaus athletes Leo Houlding and Anniken Binz, was filmed at one of the world’s top base-jumping venues — Kjerag, an 1100-metre mountain in Norway.

1990— 2000— 2010—

1994 — 95Berghaus launches its first footwear collection.

2001Berghaus supports The Ogre 2001 expedition, providing technical clothing and rucksacks for Thomas Huber (brother of Alex) and his team as they take on the Ogre in the Karakorum, Pakistan, one of the world’s most difficult mountains. Not content with being the first team to reach the summit since 1977, they also conquer the previously unclimbed west summit of Ogre II.

2007Awarded ‘Superbrand’ status.

2007Berghaus opens its first flagship store, in the Gateshead MetroCentre, Newcastle, the UK’s number one shopping centre at the time. The launch coincides with the company’s entry into the Japanese and Korean markets.

2008Mountaineering legend Sir Chris Bonington and climbing star Leo Houlding make a dramatic entrance at the new three-floor store in London’s Covent Garden.

Shaping our future.

2008Berghaus builds its presence in South Korea, with more than 20 new stores. The brand also signs a new deal for retail distribution in China, marking a significant milestone in its Asian growth plans.

2009Berghaus sets up a dedicated sourcing and development team in Hong Kong to support expansion in the Asian market.

2009Leo Houlding takes on his toughest challenge to date — the epic ascent of Mount Asgard on Baffin Island with fellow Berghaus athlete Carlos Suarez and filmmaker Alastair Lee. Their adventure is turned into an award-winning film.

2009The MtnHaus® team is unveiled, with a mission to take the brand’s innovative approach to new heights.

2010Berghaus moves in to the alpine heartlands of Europe, establishing operations in Norway and Germany. A partnership with Norway’s Bertel O. Steen looks after customer demand in Sweden, Finland, Iceland and Denmark. And the launch of a new central European headquarters — Berghaus Germany — takes care of Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

2011Launch of the Live for Adventure campaign. Our first TV and multi-channel campaign stars five Berghaus-sponsored athletes — Leo Houlding, Philippe and Anna Gatta, Rob Jarman and Leah Crane — and is filmed by Berghaus team member and award-winning adventure filmmaker, Alastair Lee. The campaign features climbing, high altitude ridge running, mountain biking and base-jumping, and encourages consumers to use social media to share their outdoor adventure stories.

2011Berghaus athlete Mick Fowler and his climbing partner Dave Turnbull succeed in making the first ascent of Gojung (6310m) — also known as Mugu Chuli — in the Himalayas.

2011The first dedicated retail store in Russia opens in the Mega Mall Belaya Dacha in the south east area of Moscow, helping to meet demand for Berghaus in the rapidly growing Russian outdoor market.

Sir Chris Bonington making a first ascent of Mount Changabang, India, in 1974Bonington

& Berghaus

The stories of Berghaus and iconic adventurer Sir Chris Bonington are deeply entwined. A giant in the history of mountaineering, he embodies the spirit of what we do.

We can’t match his personal achievements — few could manage that — but his drive, determination, and endless curiosity are a constant source of inspiration to us and to people around the world. Here, we look back at some of the key moments in our story — and at the shared values that continue to drive our close working relationship.

It was in the autumn of 1975 that Sir Chris led the British Everest expedition to success when, with Doug Scott and Dougal Haston, he climbed the mountain’s previously unconquered south-west face. Two years later, he and Doug made the first ascent of the Ogre in the Karakoram Himalaya, enduring a hellish downward journey when he broke two ribs while Scott broke his legs and had to crawl for six days. When the pair reached base camp, starving and exhausted, they found their companions had given them up for dead and abandoned the site.

Survival and triumph are Sir Chris’s bywords, and his reputation is built on true leadership ability — not only in the mountains, but also in the boardroom. He has carved out a successful secondary career by applying his expedition experiences to the world of business, advising some of the world’s biggest companies and lecturing on management and teambuilding.

His overriding commitment, however, has always been to Berghaus. It was in the early 1980s that Sir Chris ‘officially’ wore the brand. He became a sponsored athlete in 1984, and one year later he achieved a lifetime ambition when, at the age of 50, he reached the summit of Everest. He went on to become a non-executive director in 1997.

Recalling the early days, and his reasons for joining the company, he says: “In 1984, I was approached by Berghaus and another British brand suggesting I become a sponsored climber. I thought long and hard. I’d never used Berghaus gear, but I liked what the founders were doing in terms of innovation. It seemed to me the company had a better future.”

Sir Chris continued to seek out unclimbed peaks and unexplored regions of the world, while working closely with Berghaus staff and athletes. In 1996, he was knighted in recognition of his contribution to mountaineering and exploration.

As his legend has grown, he has remained a loyal ambassador for Berghaus, helping to communicate the brand’s philosophy and mission to new audiences around the world, from the Middle East to Asia.

“I’ve never regretted my decision to join Berghaus — there’s a fantastic spirit within the company. The people behind the brand really do live for adventure — the strapline is absolutely genuine.”

Like Berghaus, Sir Chris built his life around ‘getting there first’ — leading where others follow. And, at 77, he still lives for adventure and inspires others to do the same.

Sir Chris on what sets Berghaus apart.

“We remain true to our roots as a performance outdoor brand — but we cater for everyone, whatever their activity. If you’re a serious mountaineer going to Everest we can provide you with absolutely the ideal stuff, tested by our top athletes. For everyday walkers, our stuff is really well designed and functional — you still want that performance and technical fabrics. We work really hard to ensure that every single product is perfect for that particular pursuit and how the consumer is going to use it.”

A shared story, and a shared vision.

Leo on Sir Chris: ‘My hero and inspiration’.

Leo Houlding and Sir Chris Bonington pictured on location in the Blue Mountains near Sydney, Australia, during the filming of a documentary in 2004. It was the first time the pair had climbed together, allowing Leo to realise his long-held ambition of working with the man he describes as “one of my heroes and my inspiration”.

The Berghaus retail experience.

Each and every one of our retail channels, from the UK to Europe to Asia, is a place where we can bring our brand to life by using our assets — our people, our products and our displays — to create a consistent and compelling Berghaus experience.

Here, we showcase how we are building this real-life engagement around the world — in a way that links seamlessly into a multi-channel experience across social, digital and print platforms — to ensure that every consumer feels a strong emotional connection to the brand at every point in their journey.

BERGHAUS WEBSITE

Berghaus — Retail around the world.

Did you know?Hidden deep within our UK headquarters is a product ‘museum’ where we collect kit from across the generations — including some cherished items donated by our consumers after many years use. Some of the products stored there are nearly 40 years old — but still ready for action.

“Collaboration with our athletes is key. Without their constant testing and feedback we would not be able to advance the technology”

James Hodgson, Innovation Designer

Did you know?In 2001, Thomas Huber dropped his fully laden Berghaus Expedition rucksack thousands of feet from close to the summit of Shivling, never expecting to see it again. On his descent, he found the sack. It was a bit battered, but was still in one piece and he wore it as he trekked out from the mountain.

Philippe Gatta wearing the Mount Asgard Hybrid Jacket, using the same Hydrophobic Down technology as the Ramche Jacket.

Testing and developing the new Hydrophobic Down.

Mick Fowler and his climbing partner, Dave Turnbull, of the BMC, testing prototype versions of the Ramche jacket in the Himalayas.

Their research, development, and testing programme isn’t tied to a seasonal launch schedule. Materials and components are tested virtually to destruction, while the final garments go through a gruelling road test — in the lab and up mountains — by athletes, mountain guides and professional testers.

Life savers produced in the MtnHaus® lab to date include the Ramche Jacket, the ultimate water-repellent, cold weather protection; the Mount Asgard jacket, one of the lightest, toughest GORE-TEX® shells ever; and the Yeti® Gaiter — prototype made from a tractor inner tube — which seals any boot watertight, and is so tough it’s worn by the military.

They’re products that inspire the people who use them — you, and us — to go further, higher, faster than ever before.

MtnHaus®

Design & Development

Mick Fowler wearing the Yeti Gaiter in 1972. Innovation is in our blood, and over the years we’ve created many iconic products that led the way for others to follow. That legacy continues today with MtnHaus®, our global design and development team, which strives for ‘technical innovation without limits’.

Since Berghaus began more than 45 years ago, we’ve earned a unique reputation for innovation, and created a long list of truly groundbreaking pieces of outdoor kit.

We’re well used to pushing the boundaries of testing and design, often working closely with the athletes who rely on our products to survive in the Earth’s most extreme conditions.

But great isn’t always good enough for obsessives like us, and we’re continually looking for ways to improve what we do.

That’s why, in 2009, we set up MtnHaus®, an advanced design and development team focused on creating the best outdoor clothing and equipment in the world. Their mission is, quite simply, to achieve ‘technical innovation without limits’.

RAMCHE JACKETThe Ramche Jacket features our latest innovation: Hydrophobic Down. Utilising the natural benefits of Down’s superior insulation, outstanding warmth, optimum compressibility, ultra lightweight and high water resistance.

Did you know?Because animal welfare is vital to us, all the down we use — in jackets, gilets and sleeping bags — is a by-product of the food industry, never the result of live plucking.

“What we do is special — we’re making gear that allows people to do amazing things and to go on great adventures. We might not be with them when they get to the top of the mountain, but we still feel like part of the expedition”

Lisa Robson, Global Creative Lead

Did you know?Berghaus products have been to the top of the 14 mountains in the world that reach above 8,000 metres and the highest peaks on the seven continents. They have also visited the North Pole, the South Pole, deserts, remote rain forests, and pretty much everywhere in between.

MOUNT ASGARD SMOCKDesigned specifically for the Asgard Project in collaboration with Leo Houlding, this is one of the lightest GORE-TEX® pro-shell garments on the market.

James and Leo discuss some of the innovations developed for the smock.

Jason Pickles, Leo Houlding, Chris Rabone, Sean Leary (l-r) at the summit of Mount Asgard, 2009

The adventure starts here.Mount Asgard Smock — The Brief

Notes from the journal of James Hodgson, MtnHaus® innovation designer, following his briefing from Leo Houlding on his requirements for an ultra-light but durable shell.

1. Try and make a proshell smock which is as light as possible.

2. Helmet compatible hood. 3. Close fitting, no excess fabric. 4. Good arm-lift and freedom of movement. 5. Single chest pocket.

6. Venting is absolutely key. 7. Two hand-pockets. 8. No thumb loops. 9. Sleeves must be able to be rolled.

Did you know?The Nitro rucksack, launched in 1998, won a Millennium Product Award from the UK Design Council for its Limpet carrying and compression system.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

The Mount Asgard Team.

In Kind Direct.

We donate new, surplus Berghaus products including fleeces, gloves and jackets, to charity through In Kind Direct, an organisation established by HRH The Prince of Wales. Recent recipients include a London-based organisation that supports children with disabilities, and the Liverpool YMCA. And of course, this also means our surplus stock doesn’t end up as landfill.

Global Community Action Nepal (CAN).

Founded by climber Doug Scott, CAN is a mountaineers’ charity that helps mountain communities improve their standard of living as well as supporting their indigenous culture. Operating mainly in the mid-hill regions of Nepal, CAN supports the people who make it possible for others to enjoy the peaks and passes of these stunning, remote areas.

The John Muir Trust.

We like a challenge, especially when it involves the outdoors. So when the John Muir Trust, formed to protect and conserve wild places, asked us to help them, we couldn’t say no. We provide physical help whenever they need us. Whether clearing footpaths at Herrington Country Park, cutting back trees on a National Trust estate, or helping with woodland regeneration on Scotland’s Isle of Skye — we’re never afraid of getting our hands dirty.

Durham Wildlife Trust.

As a corporate sponsor, we help the Trust protect wildlife and promote nature conservation in County Durham and the boroughs of Gateshead, South Tyneside and Darlington. One of the most active environmental organisations in North East England, the Trust manages more than 20 nature reserves, a variety of species and habitat recovery projects and four visitor centres.

European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA).

We are members of EOCA, which supports major conservation projects all over the world. Their work to date includes: monitoring wildlife in the remote Seti Khola valley in Nepal’s Himalayas (home to five out of Nepal’s six Himalayan pheasant species); saving an ancient forest in Sweden from logging; and replanting mangroves in Sri Lanka.

Here are some of the things we’ve been doing:We make a difference.

We’re passionate about inspiring people to enjoy the great outdoors — and about helping to preserve and improve our natural environment. That’s why we support community projects that focus on looking after the world around us.

Did you know?We recycle 75 per cent of our office and warehouse waste. Plus, our flagship stores use 100 per cent recycled bags, and we’re even reducing the number of swing tickets we use on all products.

Berghaus isn’t just a performance brand — we’re a meeting place, a community for adventurers, athletes, and like-minded people.

Part of that community is a group of phenomenally talented athletes and trail guides, some of the most outstanding male and female adventurists on the planet. They act as ambassadors for Berghaus; they’re not models or ‘faces’ — they’re part of our heart and soul.

They drive their gear hard, so we get these guys involved when we’re coming up with products and testing them — we’d be fools not to. They love the work; the tougher the terrain, the better. And when they give us their verdict, we listen.

Berghaus Athletes.

Leo Houlding, Leah Crane, Rob Jarman, Philippe and Anna Gatta (l-r), pictured in the Dolomites in 2011.

Rob Jarman

MOUNTAIN BIKE ADVENTURE RACER

Rob’s here to prove just how crazy you can be on two wheels. He’s spent years as a professional mountain biker on the national and World Cup Downhill biking scene, and has ridden and coached for Team GB at the European and World Championships. But added to that, he’s made a massive impact with his insane, hair-raising stunts.

Best known for: Riding a bike down the frozen Lillehammer bob sleigh circuit (completed in 62 seconds, top speed 90kph); setting the British land speed record on a mountain bike by going at a stupendous 153kph. On snow.

“As a free rider, I have always been looking for new challenges involving mountain bikes. I love helping people achieve things, boosting their confidence and talking them into doing something like a bridge swing or a big bike jump that they otherwise would never attempt. They get to experience something new and get an understanding of why I like to push myself.”

Sir Chris Bonington

MOUNTAINEER

The stories of Berghaus and iconic adventurer Sir Chris Bonington are deeply entwined. A giant in the history of mountaineering, he embodies the spirit of what we do. We can’t match his achievements — few can do that — but his drive and determination, his achievements and endless curiosity inspire like nothing else. And at 77, the man remains unstoppable.

Best known for: : Completing 19 expeditions to the Himalayas, including four to Everest. He staged the first-ever ascent of Annapurna’s daunting south face, and endured a hellish descent of the Ogre with Doug Scott, breaking two ribs while Scott broke his legs and had to crawl for six days. The pair survived and triumphed.

“I’ve been enormously fortunate to be able to spend so much time exploring and climbing around the world and those experiences have hugely enriched my time on this planet.”

Jason Pickles

CLIMBER

Based in Manchester, UK, Jason is a big wall climber and rigger with more than 20 years’ experience — and since he builds climbing walls by trade, his life revolves around climbing. He was chief rigger on the Asgard Project; having tackled a wall a mile high, exposed to fierce Arctic weather, he then joined Leo Houlding’s later expedition, the first ascent of Yosemite’s El Capitan. He has completed expeditions to Canada, High Sierra and the Himalayas.

Best known for: In 2008, he gained the ultimate macho accolade and was named Britain’s Manliest Man in a competition held by burger company Rustlers!

“Funny how the mind works. When we climbed Asgard, I couldn’t feel my toes. The numbness was replaced by pain later, as the soles of my feet defrosted; three months later, the pins and needles finally disappeared. Yet I remember it as ‘not that bad’. So am I going to turn down a sub-zero climb again? Absolutely no way — it’s the unknown that attracts me to these places. As I said, funny how the mind works.”

Mick Fowler

MOUNTAINEER

The man they call the ‘mountaineer’s mountaineer’, the man Chris Bonington calls ‘the most successful innovative mountaineer of the last twenty years’. London-born Mick was awarded the Piolet d’Or and Golden Piton with Paul Ramsden for their 2002 ascent of China’s 6250m Siguniang. In 2010 he achieved the first ascent of the north face of Sulamar, China. He is also president of The Alpine Club.

Best known for: Too many to number, but apart from the above, the first ascent of Changabang in the Himalayas, involving steep, sustained ice, rock and ice and hard rock climbing.

“The kind of mountaineering I enjoy takes up a lot of time, and I’m forever angst-ridden that I might not have the balance between climbing and family quite right. But my children tell me they’d rather have a dad who climbs and is happy than a non-climbing, grumpy dad!”

Sean ‘Stanley’ Leary

SPEED CLIMBER

An unsung hero of modern Yosemite speed climbing, Stanley (as he likes to be known) was an invaluable team member of Leo Houlding’s Asgard assault. Leo has huge respect for his achievements and has climbed extensively with Stanley near his home in Yosemite, California. A holder of five speed records, Stanley has climbed light and fast in Patagonia, big wall style in Baffin and alpine in Alaska.

Best known for: First ascent of the east face of La Espada, Torres del Paine, Patagonia (2,500m).

“I grew up playing in the Sierra Nevada range in California, which led to really fun times learning to climb, ski, paddle and fly. Now I love racing up gigantic walls and trying to free climb them. I’m also part of the new era of wingsuit base skydiving. It’s an amazing adventure to seek out and fly new exits around the globe!”

Julia Pickering

SNOWBOARDER, SNOWKITER

Alastair Lee

CLIMBING PHOTOGRAPHER

Alastair’s passion for adventure means he’s spent most of his life travelling the world in search of the next mountain challenge, and capturing it with superb photography and edgy film technique. His brand of action, sharp editing and trademark humour have made his work a huge hit at festivals, earning him over 30 international film awards. Alastair captured every second of Leo Houlding’s expedition to make the first free ascent of Mount Asgard’s awe-inspiring north face; he turned the footage into the multi-award winning film the Asgard Project.

Best known for: Stunning movie The Asgard Project, and its follow-up, The Prophet, featuring Leo’s epic climb of a new line at El Capitan.

“I couldn’t believe I won best climbing film and the grand prize for The Prophet at the Kendal Mountain Festival. It was smaller scale than the Asgard film — and people always do their best work when there’s no expectation and it’s coming straight from the heart. Plus of course, Leo’s route is absolutely mind bending!”

Philippe Gatta

MOUNTAINEER, ULTRA DISTANCE RUNNER AND ROCK CLIMBER

For the past 20 years, Philippe has set himself new rock climbing, mountaineering and running challenges around the globe. From the top of Everest to the Sahara, from French sport routes to the Amazon rainforest, Philippe has done it all, pushing himself to the limit.

Best known for: Single-handedly summiting Himalayan peak Ama Dablam (highest peak 6,856m) via the challenging South West ridge, in adverse weather conditions.

“I love the feeling I get after long hours of effort, when the body is sore but the mind is restful. Sport is also a great way to travel the world and discover new cultures. And it’s a great excuse to eat lots of good French cuisine to refuel the muscles!”

Karen Darke

HAND BIKER, SIT SKIER

Inspirational is a word used time and again when people talk about Karen. Paralysed in a climbing accident at 21, she proves that happiness and success in life come down to your attitude. Previously a keen runner and climber, she’s found new methods of exploration, pushing the limits of the possible. Karen has sea kayaked 1,200 miles of the Canadian coast, spent five days kayaking in treacherous Patagonian waters for the BBC and crossed central Asia’s Tien Shan and Karakoram mountains on a hand bike. Much of her work is sponsored for charity. She has been selected for the London 2012 Para-cycling team.

Best known for: Undertaking a groundbreaking 600km sit-ski traverse of the Greenland ice cap, one of the last great wildernesses, where winds reach 200mph and temperatures fall to -40C.

“Being outside with the rain lashing on my face or the sun warming my back, experiencing a special moment — a sunrise, a view, a moment of comfort after a challenge — these are the things that fuel me.”

Anna Gatta

CLIMBER AND TRAIL RUNNER

Swedish-born Anna lives with husband and fellow Berghaus athlete Philippe Gatta in Nice. She’s climbed extensively, particularly in France, and has hiked the Annapurna circuit: 280km in 13 days.

Best known for: Winning the 2012 Atacama Race in the 30-39 age group.

“I spend all my spare time climbing, running and trail running. I don’t have to dream of ideal terrain — I prefer to sport climb on steep cliffs, and southern France has enough for a lifetime. We live in climbing heaven.”

Leo Houlding

CLIMBER

World famous British climber, alpinist, base jumper and true adventurer, Leo operates at the cutting edge of extreme sport. He’s climbed the Angel of the North, raced Jeremy Clarkson up a cliff face on Top Gear, and in 2010, completed his long-term ambition to make his first ascent of The Prophet, the toughest line of Yosemite’s monolithic El Capitan.

Best known for: In 2009, Leo climbed Mount Asgard, an epic big-wall climb on Baffin Island, which was made into the film The Asgard Project.

”Wild places, intense experiences, journeys into the unknown, friendships forged in the fires of endeavour; this is adventure; this is what I live for.”

Kim Mi Gon

MOUNTAINEER

An accomplished mountaineer, Korean-born Kim has an impressive list of 8,000m ascents to his name, including the perilous south face of Lhotse, in Nepal, at 8,516m. Kim is director of the Student Alpine Federation of Gwangju.

Best known for: Climbing Everest.

“Completing an extreme climb is tough — but I’m always looking for new challenges; for ways to push myself a little further with every adventure. That’s what makes me feel alive.”

Athlete Profiles.

Julia is an exploratory snowboard mountaineer and adventurer who’s constantly on the lookout for new adventures — she recently headed to Greenland to investigate epic, unridden lines in previously unvisited mountain ranges. Passionate about her sport, she relishes the challenge of splitboard ascents and even winter camping. And she also enjoys snowboarding — sometimes while being pulled by her two husky dogs.

Best known for: The first woman and the second person ever to have climbed and snowboarded the three highest peaks in the Arctic Circle.

“I’m a lover of snow, sunshine, husky dogs and the outdoors… And when I’m out there, snowboarding at altitude, racing with the dogs or heli-skiing, I’m always super-excited — and a tiny bit nervous.”

In 2011, we held the first Berghaus Athlete Camp. We brought together 11 of our elite team for four incredible days in Garmisch, Germany. Joining them were scientists from our MtnHaus innovation department, as well as Berghaus product designers and marketers — all there to work with the athletes in their own environment, so we could see exactly what they need from their gear.

For part of the camp, the group talked about what makes the best outdoor kit really work. And then everyone

got outside and let rip, hitting the mountains for some serious skiing, snowboarding and ice climbing, the athletes soon leaving the rest far behind.

Their aim? To put the latest prototypes through their paces, to push what we made to the limit. And to inspire them- selves and us to climb higher, ski faster, see what’s over the next horizon.

But above all, to have an unbelievably good time, as the images on the following page show...

Action. Adventure. Fun.

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

AthleteCamp.

1

2

3 5

46

7

James Hodgson, Berghaus Mtnhaus® Senior DesignerChristian Mcgill, Berghaus Design ManagerNick Parks, Mountain Tracks GuideChris Lines, Press Ahead DirectorJulie Gretton, Berghaus Category ManagerDavid Heath, Berghaus VP of Global Product & Brand MarketingJoanne Scott, Berghaus Global Brand ManagerLeo Houlding, Berghaus AthleteAlex Bayerl, Mountain Tracks GuideSam Bradburn, Berghaus Global Marketing TeamSir Chris Bonington, Berghaus Non-Executive Director/MountaineerRob Jarman, Berghaus AthleteJuile Pickering, Berghaus AthleteMick Fowler, Berghaus Athlete

1 2 3 4 56

789

10 11

121314

Mick showing his skills. Rob getting some air.

Resting up. Testing the kit.

Preparing to set off.

Relaxing at the chalet.

Sir Chris enjoying the sun.

Approaching the mountain.

Catching a break.

The team heads out.

Juilia on the march.

Trail Extrem™High Intensity

MountainOur products. Our consumers.

Berghaus consumers are defined not by who they are, but by what they do — from recreational walkers to mountaineers, they’re driven by a desire to explore the outdoors.

And at every level, they’re looking for authentic, high-quality outdoor gear from a brand with a distinctive heritage and style. That’s what Berghaus gives them — the right equipment for just about any activity, in any conditions.

The following pages offer a brief introduction to our clothing and equipment ranges, and to the people that use them.

Everyday TrailMid – Low Intensity

Performance outdoor gear for every kind of adventurer.

Who wears it

Name: Amy Spencer Age: 30

Day job: Equipment designer, Berghaus.

Outdoor pursuits: Hill walking, jogging, family walks in local parks, countryside and beaches.

Favourite place: Ambleside, Lake District.

Best outdoor experience: Jesmond Dene, Newcastle — a big outdoor landscape featuring fields, walkways, playground and petting farm, right in the middle of the city.

Favourite kit: Akka Long Down Jacket, which she ‘wears everywhere’ through the winter — out walking with the family in the low hills, as well as with jeans when shopping or meeting friends in town.

What Amy looks for in outdoor gear: Washable, versatile clothes that ‘cross the boundary’ between outdoor and urban — fit and styling are especially important as jackets and coats have to work as everyday essentials, often worn casually with jeans.

In her own words: “My husband and I used to go on tougher treks but now we have a young son who we take with us everywhere so our focus has changed. It tends to be low-level, shorter walks and smaller parks rather than always heading up a hill. But there’s still a sense of adventure and exploration for us as a family — the outdoors is still our playground.

“In terms of kit, we still need really good quality, reliable stuff that allows you to forget about the cold and wet — so we can just go out there and have fun, whatever the weather is doing. It’s also got to look great, so I can wear it when I’m in town, shopping or meeting with friends, as well as when I’m out walking.”

Everyday

Outdoors isn’t always extreme or high intensity. Sometimes you just want to be warm and dry and look good, whatever you’re doing, wherever daily life takes you.

Our Everyday range is designed and crafted with the same attention to detail that runs through every Berghaus product, with a flattering cut and a relaxed styling that’s at home anywhere — from the high street to the hills.

Featuring trusted technologies and top quality fabrics, you’ll have a versatile garment you can wear forever, no matter what the weather… come rain or shine you’ll breeze through any adventure in our Everyday Outdoors range.

Who wears it

Name: Jonathan Knapp Age: 38

Day job: Aerospace engineer, Derbyshire, UK.

Outdoor pursuits: Hiking in the Peak District, mountain biking, road cycling, walking with friends.

Favourite place: Fairbourne, Wales.

Best outdoor experience: Too many adventures to choose from in the last 20 years! (“But if I was forced to choose I’d say one of the long-distance mountain bike rides I’ve been on with my dad, especially in winter when we’re racing to get back to the car before it gets dark!”)

Favourite kit: Bowscale GORE-TEX® Shell: “For hiking in wet weather — it never overheats.” Fortrose Fleece: “For cold conditions, like when I’m hiking in Canada.”

What Jonathan looks for in outdoor gear: Stuff that keeps him warm and dry, breathable for fast-paced activities like biking, and that looks good enough to be worn with relaxed clothes when on holiday, exploring towns and villages.

In his own words: “I like to keep fit all the time — a lot of my fitness work is done through road cycling, while mountain biking is for enjoyment, because it tends to be more fast and furious. Walking with friends is pure relaxation! Doing so many different things means that the main thing I look for in outdoor clothing is versatility. I like products that can do it all — lots of features but with a streamlined, snug fit so they don’t flap about on the bike.”

Trail

Trail takes you away from the world — into mountains, hills and fells where you’re biking a brand new route, running your favourite trail, or striding out to the next summit. Every peak, every hilltop is worth it for the crystalline view, and for the emotional high that comes with doing what you love.

Whatever your activity, you need protection from the elements. We use everything from GORE-TEX® to our own AQ™ coatings so you’ll always be dry. The best insulation technologies in the world come together to keep you warm, so when others may freeze, you’ll be fired up for the next section of trail.

Mid — Low Intensity.

Who wears it

Name: Stephen Birkinshaw Age: 43

Day job: Environmental scientist, Newcastle University, UK.

Outdoor pursuits: Fell running — seven-time winner of the Original Mountain Marathon.

Favourite place: Blencathra, also known as Saddleback, a mountain in the Lake District.

Best outdoor experience: The first time winning the Original Mountain Marathon. “It’s the mountain marathon everyone wants to win — so to have gone on to do it seven times is amazing.”

Favourite kit: Berghaus Baselayers. “The fit is snug which helps breathability, and the material is very high quality — it feels great against the skin. Comfort is so important on a long run.”

What Stephen looks for in outdoor gear: Lightweight, hardwearing, “fit and forget” comfort that does the job with the minimum of fuss.

In his own words: “It’s a pleasure to get out and run. That’s what I enjoy doing the most. Running at the top level can be hard at times, especially in the worst of the English winter — but it’s still a joy. I just love being out on the hills, and as long as I stay injury-free, I’ll do it for as long as I can.”

Trail

For people who love to experience the outdoors at a heart-thumping pace: twisting turns, uneven terrain, and a surprise around every bend in the trail.

Pushing yourself against the elements, you need gear that’s fast and light, but totally sure-footed. Stuff that wears hard, keeps off the worst of the cold and the rain, but won’t slow you down.

That’s why, together with our athletes, our elite development team at MtnHaus® has created a range of performance clothing that’s up to the toughest challenges — speed is everything when you’re racing to win.

High Intensity.

Who wears it

Name: Susie Burt Age: 35

Day job: Mountain Tracks office manager, Chamonix, France.

Outdoor pursuits: Skiing and ski mountaineering, paragliding, mountain biking, climbing, trail running.

Favourite place: The top of Aiguille du Midi, a mountain in the Mont Blanc massif in the French Alps.

Best outdoor experience: Paragliding off Mont Blanc.

Favourite kit: The Velum Jacket, for year-round wear: “Great for skiing and trail running, and flying, too — it’s so light and versatile, I can use it for most of the sports I enjoy. And it’s good at keeping out the rain on wet walks.”

What Susie looks for in outdoor gear: High-performance, technical, life-saving equipment with a good fit and attractive styling.

In her own words: “Outdoors is where my primary enjoyment comes from — I still get a rush, whether skiing a new line, finishing a trail running race, or flying a paraglider. It’s the release, it’s what I love to do — my lifestyle revolves around being outside, trying to pursue a goal and become good at it. I like pushing myself to achieve different things — to run further, fly higher, ski better.”

Mountain

You’re ski touring in the Dolomites, or aiming to summit the Gran Paradiso — could be you’re even heliskiing in the mind-blowing majesty of the Canadian Bugaboos. Whatever your dream, our Mountain range has the gear you need.

We develop every product with input from users, like the Mountain Tracks guides who spend their days living the adventures that inspire our designs, and that maybe you’re about to try.

High-performance fabrics. Proven technologies. Good-looking design. It adds up to light and durable gear that keeps you protected, giving you the flexibility to do exactly what you want to do on those exhilarating peaks.

Who wears it

Name: Olly Allen Age: 39

Day job: IFMGA mountain guide qualified to work anywhere in Europe — also the managing director of Mountain Tracks in Chamonix, France.

Outdoor pursuits: Rock climbing, ice climbing, randonnée skiing, mountain biking, road biking, trail running.

Favourite place: A day bouldering at the sea cliffs of Gogarth, north Wales. (“As long as the sun is shining!”)

Best outdoor experience: Climbing the Walker Spur on the Grandes Jorasses on his 30th birthday.

Favourite kit: Mount Asgard Hybrid Jacket: “I love the fact that when you’re climbing, the down stays dry. Amazing stuff.”

What Olly looks for in outdoor gear: Anything that’s functional and fits well. Low weight is also a priority — even if it comes at the expense of long- term durability.

In his own words: “Outdoors is my life. When I’m not in the mountains with clients, I’m out there alone or with friends. It’s work for 150 days of the year, and doing it for myself the rest of the time — so I’m out there pretty much every single day, which means my kit gets an absolute hammering. I get to travel the world and see amazing mountains, take in breathtaking views, but it’s the challenge of climbing and mountaineering that’s biggest for me.

“I find it incredibly absorbing — on a long climb, I can be totally focused on the moment. I’m not thinking about work or what’s going on back at home, only about how I’ll get myself and my clients to the top safely.”

Extrem™

Launched in 1986, Extrem™ was born to take climbers into the most challenging conditions.

Developed with insight from world-class athletes and mountain guides, this is the ultimate mountaineering gear — minimum weight, maximum performance, giving you the power to perform and the protection to take on the toughest, most exhilarating challenge.

“Wild places, intense experiences, journeys into the unknown, friendships forged in the fires of endeavour; this is adventure; this is what I live for. For half of my life, on countless adventures Berghaus has been my trusted partner”Leo Houlding

Leo Houlding, Autana, Venezuelan Jungle, 2012

BERGHAUS, , MtnHaus, Extrem and Yeti are registered trade marks of Berghaus Limited. GORE-TEX is a registered trade mark of W.L. Gore and Associates. © Berghaus Limited 2012.