Brand Focus: Kathmandu

Established in 1987 by Jan Cameron and John Pawson, we’re here to fill you in on one of the most exciting outdoor brands in the world – Kathmandu.

Established in 1987 by Jan Cameron and John Pawson, we’re here to fill you in on one of the most exciting outdoor brands in the world – Kathmandu.

Kathmandu isn’t any ordinary retailer. It’s an industry leader in outdoor clothing and equipment, with incredibly progressive ethical values and policies on sustainability and culture. 

So, if you’re interested in learning more about Kathmandu and why we’re proud to be UK stockists of this forward-thinking brand, keep reading…

Kathmandu overview

Kathmandu’s journey began in New Zealand, which is where its passion for the outdoors came from, thanks to the sheer amount of natural beauty found across the country. This is where the drive was ignited to create incredible outdoor clothing that could facilitate exploring what can be found. 

Fast-forward to today, Kathmandu still has its headquarters in New Zealand, as well as stockists (including Winfields Outdoors) and dedicated stores now scattered across the globe.  

For over 30 years, Kathmandu has gone from strength to strength, climbing to its top spot as an industry giant, and gaining recognition from across the globe. The brand’s foundations are built on the love, appreciation and respect for the great outdoors, and it can be seen in every product produced by Kathmandu. 

Who does Kathmandu make outdoor gear for?

Kathmandu makes premium quality gear for every type of outdoor enthusiast. It’s a brand that has helped many individuals ignite their passion for the great outdoors, providing every explorer with the quality gear they need to tackle the elements comfortably and protected. 

Kathmandu has tailored its extensive product offering to cater to a wide range of activities, making it easier than ever for outdoor enthusiasts to find what they require to reach their very best potential, no matter what weather conditions or environment they find themselves in. 

 

“We started with a simple belief – Outside is where we live our best lives. It liberates us, challenges us, revives us, and surprises us.  

It was this belief that drove us to design our first fleece jacket over thirty years ago. It’s what has driven us to help more people get out there in the decades since. We are meant to be amongst it. 

And it’s why we made it our mission to improve the well-being of the world by getting more people out there.” – Kathmandu. 

 

From seasoned thrill seekers to those who simply adore light strolling across new landscapes, Kathmandu understands the diversity found within the outdoor enthusiast community – and its creations reflect its commitment to ensuring all types of explorers are catered for. 

So, no matter what – when you’re wearing Kathmandu, you can rest assured you’re arriving at the start of your journey prepared and ready to reach new heights when exploring the beauty waiting to be discovered in nature.

Kathmandu and sustainability 

Sustainability is something that Kathmandu holds as its biggest priority – and it’s made plenty of progressive actions to help meet its goals, raising the bar for other brands in the outdoor industry. 

 

“Because the outdoors is so important to us, Kathmandu puts the planet and people first. We have always been courageous when it comes to sustainability and doing the right thing.” – Kathmandu. 

 

If you’ve been looking for a brand that not only truly cares about not only its own impact on the environment, but also how it can improve it by helping to fight climate change – Kathmandu is a brand you’ll adore. Find out some of the ways Kathmandu has achieved this below.

 

“In 2019, we set our 2025 sustainability goals, focusing on three areas where we want to lead by example – people, planet and practice.” – Kathmandu. 

 

Kathmandu is a transparent company

Kathmandu has committed to publishing its sustainability report every year. To check out its most recent sustainability report, click here.

Kathmandu has big plans for the future of its products

Kathmandu has openly stated that its planet goal is to have 100% of its entire product range designed, developed and produced using sustainable elements of circularity principles. 

 

“Kathmandu is on a path to embed circular thinking into the design of all products and to invest in innovative business models* to keep resources in use. This is a vital step away from the linear take-make-waste system and movement towards a zero-waste, closed-loop system.” – Kathmandu.

Kathmandu prioritises the use of low-climate-impact materials 

Kathmandu creates clothing that’s incredibly durable and long-lasting. But, its goal is to ensure that its clothing doesn’t end up contributing to the ever-growing apparel waste problem. 

That’s why it prioritises using materials that are kinder and more sustainable for our environment. This includes materials that are either regenerative, recyclable, biodegradable or responsibly farmed. 

These practices are so that Kathmandu can reach its target of 100% Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) by 2025 and all recycled (or recyclable) polyester by 2030.

Kathmandu achieved a Level 4 in the Material Change Index Score

The Material Change Index Score works alongside companies, helping them to measure and manage the types of materials used to create product lines. It aims to significantly reduce CO2 emissions caused directly or indirectly by textiles and material production. The aim is to eradicate 45% of CO2 emissions by 2030. 

Back in 2021, Kathmandu achieved the highest score possible in the Material Change Index Score. Only 36 other companies in the world have achieved this standard to date, making Kathmandu a true pioneer in sustainability.

Kathmandu only works with ethical suppliers 

Kathmandu has committed to only working alongside ethical providers, and it’s a non-negotiable. This means when you choose to wear Kathmandu apparel on your outdoor adventures, you’ll be wearing premium quality gear that feels good to support. 

 

“100% of our new suppliers are screened using social criteria to ensure a positive impact on the planet and the people they come into contact with.” – Kathmandu.

Kathmandu aimed to be a net carbon-zero company – and reached its target 4 years early

Kathmandu has sustainability deeply ingrained in everything they do, which is how it has been able to achieve its target (nearly half a decade) ahead of schedule. 

 

“Through more sustainable business practices, we have reduced our carbon footprint and offset remaining carbon emissions to become net carbon zero certified by Toitū Envirocare. We’re proud to have reached our carbon-neutral target four years ahead of schedule in 2021.” – Kathmandu.

Kathmandu is a B Corp-certified brand 

Its dedication to improving the environment has been inspiring throughout the years. So much so that in 2019, Kathmandu become the first ever outdoor clothing and equipment brand in Australasia to be ranked as certified B Corp. 

This means that Kathmandu’s operations as a brand, across the board, have met the highest possible standards concerning social and environmental performance.

Kathmandu at Winfields Outdoors

If you’re a regular here at Winfields Outdoors, you’ll know just how dedicated we are to providing outdoor enthusiasts with the best outdoor gear, for all types of adventures. That’s why we’re proud to say we’re stockists of Kathmandu, and we’re really excited to share its products with the outdoor community in the UK. 

From unparalleled protective outerwear and clothing to stylish outdoor accessories and rucksacks, you’ll find everything you need to take any outdoor adventure to the next level. 

To check out a taste of what our wider selection has to offer, see below! Alternatively, click here to be taken to our full Kathmandu range.

Kathmandu Womens Heli Longline Down Jacket 

We’re starting with the Kathmandu Womens Heli Longline Down Jacket – the perfect option for those looking for an ultra-light throw-on jacket for all types of outdoor activities. 

If you’re a mountaineer or enjoy exploring high landscapes, you’ll know all too well how the temperatures start to take a nose dive the higher you go. This is the type of jacket you’ll want with you in moments like those, providing you with the warmth you need to persevere. 

The Heli Longline Down Jacket is also water-resistant and features an elasticated hood and cuffs for further protection from the elements. It’s also available in two colour finishes, which include Rhubarb and Black.

Kathmandu Mens Epiq 600 Fill Down Vest

If you’ve been searching for the perfect outerwear vest that you can pack away in your bag with ease, this is the perfect option for you. Introducing the Kathmandu Mens Epiq 600 Fill Down Vest – the ultimate winter warmer. 

The Kathmandu Mens Epiq 600 Fill Down Vest is an incredibly valuable item of clothing to add to your outdoor gear wardrobe. Perfect for a range of outdoor activities, this winter warmer can either be used as an additional shield against the elements when the temperatures start to drop or as a lighter winter layer to be paired with a light mid-layer.

Kathmandu Ruck Cross

Are you looking for an alternative to your cross-body and rucksack? Well, we’ve got you covered. Introducing the Kathmandu Ruck Cross!

Bigger storage capacity than a regular cross-body without the bulkiness of a rucksack, this Kathmandu creation will provide you with the best of both worlds. You’ll also have the option to wear it as either a shoulder or belt bag, depending on what’s comfortable for you. 

The Kathmandu Ruck Cross is ultra-durable, made from recycled premium quality materials and available in a variety of colour finishes.

Kathmandu Mens Epiq 600 Fill Down Jacket

Last, but certainly not least, we have the Kathmandu Mens Epiq 600 Fill Down Jacket. 

Toasty warmth is guaranteed when you’ve got this superb outdoor jacket on, even when the temperatures start to plummet. It’s a highly durable and worthwhile addition to your outdoor wardrobe, and it’ll last you for years to come. 

Made from recycled materials, the Kathmandu Mens Epiq 600 Fill Down Jacket benefits from internal stretch cuffs and a fully adjustable hood, shielding the wearer from chilly temperatures. 

If you’ve been looking for durable and protective outerwear ahead of your next outdoor adventure that doesn’t require you to compromise on style, this is the jacket for you.

SHOP OUR EXTENSIVE SELECTION OF KATHMANDU AT WINFIELDS OUTDOORS TODAY

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