Our History

1980

• Produced highly functional Thinsulate clothing. (Photo: Super Dru Parka)
• Introduced Entrant and Gore-Tex fabrics for selected items. Combined with Montbell's unique designs, these proved more breathable and more waterproof than other products on the market.
• Began exporting sleeping bags and outerwear to Vaude in Germany.
• Mr. Ide successfully crossed North America on bicycle. He used Montbell products (including a sleeping bag and rainwear) for one and a half years, proving their durability.
• Published the first product catalog.

1981

• Imported Cordura nylon, a new fabric developed by DuPont, for packs. (See photo)
• Research began on the applications of Sontique, a thermal insulation material newly developed by DuPont.
• Established the Montbell Tokyo office.
• Participated in the world's largest sports fair, ISPO '81, in Munich, Germany.

1982

• The Storm Cruiser Jacket and Pants, featuring Gore-Tex, are released. Designed from the outset to provide full-functionality in a lightweight yet durable form, this series continues to be best-selling rainwear within Montbell's lineup.
• In February, Mr. Wada and Mr. Kodama (members of Sangakudoushi-kai) used the Dru Parka during their successful winter ascent of the north wall (the claw side) of Grandes Jorasses in the European Alps. (See photo)
• In June, Mr. Tsuneo Tsugita, a professional guide, used the Guide Jacket and successfully skied down Huascaran (6,768 m/22,204 ft) in South America.
• On August 14, Mr. Yoshino and Mr. Yanagisawa wore the Dru Parka and Pants and successfully climbed the north edge of K2 (8,611 m/28,251 ft) with no oxygen.
• A Hokkaido University team completed the second winter ascent of Dhaulagiri using many Orlon products, such as the Orlon Fleece Jacket.
• Kozureokami-tai, who joined the Paris-Dakar Rally, used the Moon Light Tent and Dacron Sleeping Bag.
• In April, to recognize Montbell's climbing spirit, introduced the Zero Point line. (See photo)
• In September, developed Harness and Alpine Packs using high-strength Ballistic nylon.
• Developed Chlorofiber Underwear.
• The Yeti Doujin Team, led by Yasuo Kato, used Alpine Packs and Sit Harnesses for their winter Everest expedition.

1983

• The Women's Climbers Club visited Bhutan using our U.L. Zelt tent, Fleece Jacket, and other products.
• Crafted the Tough Bag sleeping bag series and clothing using DuPont's Quallofil material.
• Used high-strength Ballistic nylon in luggage.
• Introduced a new line of climbing shoes and climbing accessories. (See photo)
• Began retailing the Stream Jacket and Pants. (See photo)
• In July, the Soviet (SSSR) Pamir International party used the Action One-Piece Suit to climb Mt. Lenin (7,134 m/23,405 ft).
• Developed Seal Coat (an extraordinary waterproofing material) and began exporting it to Patagonia, USA.

1984

• Created clothing using a newly developed woven version of Orlon.
• Produced gear for motorcycling.
• The Toyo University-Pakistan Joint Mountaineering Team summited Yukshin Gardan Sar Peak (elevation 7,530m) using Tough Bags.
• Began exporting Montbell goods to the USA, Germany, Australia, and England.
• Cooperated with Clog Co., Ltd. to produce the Expedition One-Piece Suit and a lightweight alpine pack.
• Contracted with Ron Fawcett, world renowned climber, to be a product research and design development adviser. Ron Fawcett visited Japan with his wife and enjoyed rock climbing at Ogawayama.
• The Fukuoka Mountaineering party used Chlorofiber underwear on their expedition to Cho Oyu (8,201 m/26,908 ft).

1985

• Published Clo value ratings from sleeping bag thermal experiments. Used temperature ratings for the Tough Bag sleeping bags.
• Ms. Masako Izumi used the Tough Bag, Chlorofiber underwear, and the Expedition One-Piece Suit on her expedition to the North Pole.
• Mr. Tadao Tanaka used the Moon Light Tent to tour from Australia to New Zealand by motorcycle.
• Had Yosemite tour as the 10th anniversary event.
• Hosted a slide show by Mr. Hidetaka Suzuki in major cities all over Japan.
• Developed the Expedition Pack and Wind Block III Tent, using a Telegonomix system.
• Mr. Yuichiro Miura successfully skied down the highest peaks on seven continents. Among other equipment, he used the Wind Block Tent, Expedition Pack, Moon Light Tent, and Montbell clothing.
• Sangakudoushikai used the Expedition One-Piece Suit in his attempt to climb the south wall of Aconcagua (6,959 m/22,831 ft) in the winter.

1986

• Started using Ballistic 30-denier fabric to produce the lightest, most compact Gore-Tex rain wear - for example, our Storm Cruiser Jacket and Pants. (See photo)
• Established the Montbell Club, an extension of Montbell retail. (See photo)
• Created WINDS, a new travel-focused category.
• Team ACP joined the 8th Paris-Dakar Rally, using the Moon Light Tent and the Tough Bag 2.
• The English Party used the Expedition Pack to climb Salcantay (6,271 m/20,574 ft) in the Andes.
• The Rakuno University Mountaineering Party used the Wind Block Tent and the Expedition One-Piece Suit in their expedition to Chamlang (7,319 m/24,012 ft) in the Himalayas.
• The Canadian Rocky JECC Mountaineering party used the Vertical Bag and Stream Jacket.
• Shogo Motobayashi and three others completed a 1,900 km circumnavigation of the North American continent around Canada and America via bicycle while using Cyclo Rain Suits, tents, and Tough Bags.
• Began selling children's products such as the Klepper Kid's.

1987

• Began retailing the Aquatic Series featuring waterproof zippers. (See photo)
• Developed the Trekking Umbrella, a lightweight yet strong folding umbrella designed for use while hiking.
• Developed quick-drying Wickron material for summer wear.
• Mr. Shinji Kazama used the Tough Bag and Special Sleeping Bag for an expedition to the North Pole by motorcycle.

1988

• Engineered the Super Tough Bag Series, an evolution from the original Tough Bag Series. (See photo)
• Began retailing a selection of items for bicycling.
• Applied an exceptionally waterproof, super-wicking coating to the Rain Trekker products. (See photo)
• Team El Coyote (Mr. Doi and other members) successfully crossed the lengths of the North and South American continents by motorcycle as a special program for the thirty-fifth anniversary of Nippon-TV (titled "Cross of the earth: 30,000 km"). Used the Moon Light Tent and U.L. Zelt Tent.
• "Sand Walkers" joined the South America Trans Amazon Rally, and used the Moon Light Tent, Tough Bag, and more.
• The Andes Cycling Expedition from the Cyuo University Cycling Club used Montbell's Stream Jacket and Pants, Roche Sweat Shirt, and Chlorofiber Underwear.
• The Super Gals used chlorofiber underwear, Action One Pieces, and Super Expedition One Pieces for their North Pole parachute descent.
• Baltoro Climbing Team Trango Tower Mountaineering party used the Expedition Pack, Alpine Pack, and Super Expedition One-Piece Suit.
• The Himalaya Doujin party reached the summit of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m/28,169 ft) using the Super Expedition One-Piece Suit, Action One-Piece Suit, Wind Block Tent, Tough Bag, and Thermawrap Jacket.

1989

• "The Osaka City" entered the 11th running of the Paris-Dakar Rally and won the title in their class. Used the Moon Light Tent, Tough Bag and more.
• Ms. Masako Izumi reached the North Pole. Among other Montbell equipment, she used Pile Knit Underwear, Pile Sweatshirts, and the Special Jacket and Pants. (See photo)
• The International Ice Walk student party, working for environmental conservation, used the Tough Bag.
• Mr. Haruyuki and Ms. Yuka Endo from the Altitude Laboratory Mountaineering party reached the summit of Gasherbrum 1 (8,068 m/26,470 ft). They used the Expedition One-Piece Suit, the L.W. Sit Harness, and the Expedition Pack.

1990

• Mr. Richard Fox, world cup winner in K-1 slalom, and Ms. Myriam Jerusalmi joined as Montbell advisers.
• A team used camels to cross the Taklamakan Desert (750 km/466 miles) in China, equipped with Montbell's Super Tough Bag and clothing.
• A Russian adventurer, Mr. Fyodor, reached the North Pole using the Super Expedition One-Piece Suit, Expedition Tough Bag, and more.
• Established Montbell Europe in Brussels, Belgium.
• Mr. Noriyasu Kunori used the Mountain Shirt, Therma-wrap, Denali Jacket and Bib to climb Mt. McKinley (6,194 m/20,321 ft).
• Opened a Montbell design office in California, USA.
• Changed the company name logo.

1991

• Opened the first Montbell Store in a shopping mall located inside of Osaka Station.
• Led by Ms. Junko Tabei, Team Tabei climbed Mt. Vinson Massif (4,897 m/16,066 ft), the highest peak in Antarctica. Used Super Expedition One-Piece Suit. (See photo)
• The Broad Peak Mountaineering Party from the Tokyo University of Agriculture used the Moon Light Tent at the base camp and proved its long-term durability.
• The International Straits Club kayaked from Taiwan to Kagoshima (Kyu-syu) and used the Moon Light Tent.
• Mr. Kazuo Ikehara successfully motorcycled from China to Mongolia (5,400 km/3,355 miles). Used a Montbell Rain Suit.

1992

• The National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) from Wyoming, USA, used the Wishbone Pack (see photo), Freney Parka, and other equipment when mountaineering on Gasherbrum.
• Antarctic Walk and Antarctic Expeditionary party used the Expedition Tough Bag in Greenland and at the South Pole.
• Equipped with the L.W. Sit Harness, U.L. Zelt Tent, Storm Cruiser, and more, the Japan & India Women's Mountaineering party made the first ascent of Saraswati in Northern Garwhar.

1993

• The Toyama Climbing Club used Montbell's ZeoLine Underwear and WB Expedition Pack to successfully climb the South Wall Cassin Ridge route of Mt. Denali (6,194 m/20,321 ft).
• All members of Japan's Gasherbrum 2 & 4 Mountaineering party reached the summit of Gasherbrum (8,035 m/26,362 ft). Used ZeoLine Underwear, Action One-Piece, and WB Alpine Pack.
• Introduced the advanced Down Hugger sleeping bag series. (See photo)
• Noriyasu Kunori rode 2,500 km from Panama to the headwaters in the Colombian Amazon while using the mountain biking System Bags.
• In cooperation with Kyocera, the energy company, developed a clean power Solar Charger. This product was used by the JAC Tokai Crown Expedition party, Gunma Everest South-East Wall Expedition party, Yamanashi Alpine Federation Mountaineering party, and Hokkaido Karaboshi Mountaineering party.

1994

• Innovated an adventure cycling bag system for extended bicycle trips.
• Mr. Shimizu and Mr. Kibino crossed Australia on solar-powered mini cycles and used the Stainless Mesh Cap, Gloves, and Cycling Clothing.
• The Asia University Antarctic Expedition party climbed Mt. Vinson Massif (4,897 m/16,066 ft), the highest peak in Antarctica. Used the Expedition One-Piece Suit and the Droites Parka. (See photo)
• Nissan Private Japon finished the Paris-Dakar Rally using Montbell fleece and Chameece products, the Down Hugger, and WB Pack.

1995

• Improved Wickron to include different vertical sections, which greatly enhanced its wicking performance.
• A party from Rissho University wore Montbell clothing to canoe rivers in Tajikistan.
• Held 20 Year Anniversary Price Revolution, where all prices were reconsidered.
• Help victims of the Great Hanshin Earthquake by organizing "Outdoor Gientai". (See photo)

1996

• Introduced a single wall tent, called the Gore Alpine Dome, using first generation Gore-Tex fabric. (See photo)
• Developed a Dryloft Expedition Down Jacket using the new wind-resistant, highly breathable Dryloft fabric engineered by Gore. (See photo)
• The Nepal Himalayas Expedition party from Shinshu University reached the summit of Ratna Churi (7,035 m/23,080 ft). They used the Down Hugger, ZeoLine Underwear, WB Pack, and more.
• The Mt. Pumori Mountaineering party of Okayama Gakuyu-kai did a successful winter ascent of Mt. Pumori in Nepal. Used the Droite Parka and Bib, Alpine Tent, and other equipment.
• Launched OUTWARD, an information magazine for Montbell club members. (See photo)

1997

• Developed Hydro Breeze, a polyurethane coating used on outerwear to provide exceptional waterproofness and breathability.
• Produced Polkatex, an all-purpose durable, water-repellent fabric that's resistant to abrasion and corrosion caused by body oils.
• Introduced the Montbell Climaplus Fleece product line. (See photo)
• Members of the Sensyu Alpine Club used the Droites Parka, Dryloft Down Jacket, and L.W. Expedition Pack 80 to climb Cho Oyu (8,201 m/26,906 ft).
• Mr. Yoshiharu Sekino used the Dryloft Down Hugger, Super Burrow Bag, and Gore Side-Zip Sleeping Bag Cover in his 53,000-km/32,000-mile Great Journey from Patagonia to Africa.

1998

• Engineered an original last and used it for Gore-Tex Tuolumne Boots, which feature an inner Gore-Tex bootie and are suitable for trekking.
• Produced a fleece-laminated, polyurethane material called Climaprene for water sports apparel.
• Hosted the Montbell Summer Festival at Yoshino in Shikoku. (See photo)
• Mr. Michihiro Konno won the "North American World Cup" dog sled race in Alaska wearing the Fall Line Zip Out Jacket and Pants.
• Mr. Masatoshi Kuriaki wore the Tempest One-Piece Suit, the Alpine Down Jacket, and other Montbell products during his solo winter ascent of Mt. McKinley (6,194 m/20,321 ft).
• Yasuhiro Murata used the Keeva Tent, Super Burrow Bag, Sleeping Bag Cover and other gear during a sea kayak traverse of the Japanese archipelago.

1999

• Designed a folding kayak and started the Montbell offshoot, ARFEQ Kayaks.
• Created a revolutionary "wishbone-like" internal frame structure for large volume packs, giving name to the Super Wishbone Pack Series.
• Developed an ultra-light, double-wall tent design, named the Stellaridge Tent Series. (See photo)
• Developed trekking poles.
• Mr. Yoshimaru Sekino used the Super Burrow Bag in his 53,000-km/32,000-mile Great Journey from Patagonia to Africa.

2000

• Produced two new sleeping bag series, the Super Stretch Burrow Bag and the Super Stretch Down Hugger, using the Super Stretch System.
• Added short-length sizes to our Super Wishbone Packs.
• Mr. Tomosuke Noda and Mr. Hiroshi Fujikado used the ARFEQ kayak to paddle rivers in 12 countries.
• Introduced the Montbell motorcycling category.
• Celebrated 25 years of producing excellent outdoor gear. (See photo)

2001

• Launched Montbell's official web site, our website.
• Produced extremely lightweight and compact rainwear - the Torrent Flier series - using Gore-Tex PacLite fabric.
• Produced advanced alpine clothing - the Dyna Action series - featuring stretch Gore-Tex fabric and Aquatect zippers.
• Naoki Ishikawa summits Mt. Everest using the EXP. One-Piece and other equipment, climbing the Seven Summits by the age of 23.
• Announced a business partnership with REI and acquired REI's flagship store in Tokyo.
• Introduced a point system for Montbell Club members.
• Introduced new Ultra-light Down inner series, using 15Denier Ballistic Airlight nylon, and 725 FP down. (See photo)

2002

• Developed a new waterproof, breathable fabric called Dry Light Tec. Adopted this compact fabric for the Versalite (See photo) and Rain Trekker series.
• Launched the Doggie Series, including rainwear, floatation vests, and other gear.
• Established Montbell America, Inc., as an overseas (American) company of the Montbell group.
• Opened first U.S. store in Boulder, Colorado, on November 1, 2002. (See photo)

2003

• Outdoor event "Try & Carry" which dealt with the canoe in Hakui-shi, Ishikawa was held in April. (See photo)
• Established U.S. distribution & service center in Boulder, Colorado, on September 2nd, 2003.
• Developed new softshell Roche jacket using windproof ClimaBlock nylon and Polkatex DWR treatment.
• Produced new Jupiter Dome tent series. Completely new Ultra-light Alpine climbing tents designed for extreme winter conditions.
• The Mountain Trainer series which used the schoeller dryskin, excellent in elasticity and durability, is announced.

2004

• our website announces online shopping for North America, on March 15th, 2004.
• "Try & Carry," an event on canoeing and kayaking, was held in May in Hakui (Ishikawa pref.), for its second time following the former year.
• "Check It Out," a white-water kayak festival, was held in October at two sites, Nagatoro and Shikoku. (See photo)
• The U.L. Wind Jacket, utilizing ultra-thin Ballistic Airlight material, is released. It offered wind protection in one of the world's lightest, most compact designs at the time.
• Produced all new Ultra-Light Alpine Down Hugger sleeping bags. Made with new calendared 15Denier Ballistic Airlight nylon, 725 FP down, patented Gathered Quilt technology, and new vertical box baffle construction.
• Introduced new Torrent Flier series, the first garments to combine 15Denier Ballistic Airlight nylon, Gore-Tex XCR, and a 15Denier Tricot lining.

2005

• Received "Design Excellent Company Prize" in March.
• Started offering insurance.
• "Try & Carry 2005," an event on canoeing and kayaking, was held in May in Hakui (Ishikawa pref.), for the third time.
• Announced "Peak Shell" and "Rain Trek" series, using Breeze Dry-Tec which increased breathability without losing water resistence. (See photo)
• "Check It Out," a white-water kayak festival, was held in October - November at two sites in Nagatoro and Shikoku.
• Established Montbell Suisse SA as an overseas (Suisse) company of the Montbell group in November.
• Opened second overseas store in Grindelwald, Switzerland, on December 9, 2005.
• Mr. Seiko Nakajima bacame the first person to receive the annnual Montbell Challenge Award.

2006

• The fourth consecutive "Try & Carry" canoe and Kayak event was held in Hakui.
• Introduced the world's lightest sleeping pad, the "U.L. Comfort System Pad". (See photo)
• High quality 800 fill power down utilized in down clothing series.
• "Alpine Therma Shell" series performance jackets utilize new elastic fabric, increasing dynamic motion and comfort.
• Mrs. Emiko Seal became the first woman to receive the "Montbell Challenge Award".

2007

• Remodeled the "All weather clothing" series. Incorporating the latest style, technology and materials. (Photo: Storm Cruiser Jacket)
• Opened the first Montbell store integrated hostel "Montbell Gojo store & Youth Hostel"in March.
• Redesigned the official our website website in April.
• The fifth consecutive "Try & Carry" canoe and kayak event was held in Hakui.
• The first "Friend Festival" was held for Montbell Club Members
• The "Emergency Set" series introduced to help people be more properly equiped in time of disasters.
• Produced a huge bed net for the stage set of "Kaya-no-naka" for the professional story teller (Kodanshi), Mr. Sanyo Kanda's national performance tour.

2008

• Introduced the revolutionary "Torrent Flier Jacket & Pants" equipped with ultimate level of technology and lightness.
• Creation of the world's lightest down jacket, the EX Light Down Jacket utilizing the highest quality 900 fill power down. (See photo)
• Introduced the breathable "O.D. Samue" series, merging the traditional Japanese function wear "Samue" with Montbell's light and fast technology.
• "Mariposa" series shoes are introduced, incorporating the Reel Adjust System, which tightens by turning the reel.
• 9 new Montbell stores open across Japan and the Ebisu Store in Tokyo re-opens.
• "Montbell Club Friend Fair" held in Osaka (See photo) and Tomakomai (Hokkaido pref.) in March.
• Hinoemata village (Fukushima pref.), Fujimi town (Nagano pref.), and Daisen to Nakaumi's Sann-in region joins Montbell's Friends town in April.
• The sixth consecutive "Try & Carry" canoe and Kayak event was held in Hakui.
• White Water Kayak trial run event "CHECK IT OUT" held in June.
• Established the "Emiko Seal" fundraising project to support the adventure cyclist Mrs. Emiko Seal fight against cancer in July.
• Opened Montbell Daisen store at the base of Mt. Daisen (Tottori pref.) in July. (See photo)
• "Montbell Club Friend Fair" held in Hyogo and Kobe prefecture in September.
• "Montbell Club Friend Fair" held in Tokyo and Daisen (Tottori pref.) in October.
• Doctor Tetsu Nakamura, the reprisentative of "Peshawar-kai," was awarded the third annual "Mont-bell Challenge Award".

2009

• Introduced "U.L. Spiral Down Hugger" sleeping bag, which incorporates Montbell's Spiral Stretch System. Won BACKPACKER's 2009 Editor's Choice Award. (See photo)
• Introduced world's lightest free-standing shelter "U.L. Dome Shelter." (See photo)
• The high quality 900 Fill Power "EX Light Down Series" introduces a vest type to the line-up.
• "Montbell Club Friend Fair" in Osaka in March.
• "Montbell Club Friend Fair" in Tokyo in April.
• Toyoshina Store & Factory Outlet in Nagano, and Hiroshima Gion Store in Hiroshima were opened.
• Unify canoe and kayak brands to Confluence Water sports. Begin distributing "Wilderness Systems", "Wave Sports", "AT paddle (Adventure Technology)" to the Japanese market.
• The seventh consecutive "Try & Carry" canoe and kayak event in Hakui, Japan in May.
• The polar explorer, Yamasaki Tetsuhide was awarded the fourth annual "Mont-bell Challenge Award" in June.
• "CHECK IT OUT"a white water kayak test-ride event.
• "SEA TO SUMMIT", Japan's first eco and outdoor event was held in Kaike Daisen (Tottori prefecture, Japan) in September, connecting sea to the summit of Mount Daisen by kayaking, biking, and walking. (See photo)
• "Montbell Club Friend Fair" in Tokyo in September.
• Montbell Store Kathmandu in Nepal was opened in October.
• "Montbell Club Friend Fair" in Osaka in October.

2010

• Announced "U.L. Super Spiral Down Hugger#1" sleeping bag, which incorporates Montbell's Super Spiral Stretch System. Won Outside's 2010 Gear of the Year Award. (See photo)
• Announced "X-TREK Mighty Dome." which is a world class extremely light weight single walled tent.
• Introduced the "Dyna Action Parka", an extraordinarily light alpine parka (420g). (See photo)
• Released "Outdry Alpine glove series" with the latest waterproof function.
• Japanese Astronaut, Naoko Yamazaki wore Montbell clothing in the Space Shuttle.
• Montbell Sapporo Kitahiroshima Store & Factory Outlet, and Passaggio Nishiarai Store (Adachi, Tokyo) were opened.
• Montbell Club Friend Fair in Osaka and Yokohama.
• Renovated and reopened Montbell Kanazawa Store & Factory Outlet in May.
• The eighth consecutive "Try & Carry" canoe and kayak event in Hakui, in May.
• Aomori Store & Factory Outlet was opened in May.
• Factory Outlet Shiga Ryuo Store was opened in July.
• Montbell Club Friend Fair in Nagoya.
• Started distributing "Life-Link", a back country ski brand to the Japanese market, in September.
• Montbell Okayama and Kyoto Station Store were opened.
• SEA TO SUMMIT 2010 in Kaike Daisen Tottori and Takatsugawa Shimane. (See photo)
• High Function T-shirts were provided to disaster victims in Chile's mining accident in October.
• "Montbell Club Friend Fair" in Chiba and Osaka.
• "CHECK IT OUT", a white water kayak test-ride event.
• Adventure Entomologist, Kenji Nishida was awarded the fifth annual "Mont-bell Challenge Award" in December.

2011

• Introduced the extremely lightweight and compact Torrent Flier jacket and pants using GORE-TEX PACLITE fabrics. (See photo)
• Introduced a newly designed life jacket "U-cushion". It can be used as both a cushion and a life jacket to have with the Emergency Kit. (See photo)
• "U.L.Super Spiral Down Hugger EXP" was awarded the "Alpinist Mountain Standards" by the climbing magazine "Alpinist".
• Acquired the Japanese brand "Kajitax" that makes climbing gears such as eizen, eispickel and eisbeil. It is now branded as "Montbell Kajitax".
• "Light Alpine Down Parka" was awarded the Backpacker Magazine's "Editors' Choice".
• In March, relief supplies donated by individuals from all over Japan for the earthquake stricken areas, were distributed by Outdoor GIENTAI. GIENTAI also volunteered to participate in restoration activities in Higashi Matsushima-shi. (Photo below: Yoshiaki Murayama)
• Montbell Tsukuba Q't store opened in March.
• Montbell Club Friend Fair as a donation event for the Great East Japan Earthquake was held in Kobe in April.
• Fukuoka Tenjin store opened and ALBi Osaka station store opened after renewal construction in April.
• In May, Montbell became fully involved in supporting the "Teno hira ni Taiyo" project in the disaster stricken area (Tome-shi of Miyagi prefecture) led by NGO "Japan Forest Biomass Network".
• SEA TO SUMMIT was held in Kaike, Totori prefecture.
• In June, SEA TO SUMMIT 2011 was held in Asahidake, Hokkaido.
• Montbell Shinjuku South store opened.
• In September, SEA TO SUMMIT 2011 was held in Chokaizan, Yamagata prefecture and Takatsugawa, Shimane prefecture.
• In October, Montbell digital catalog for tablet PC and smartphone was released.
• Montbell Shinshizuoka store opened.
• Montbell Kurashiki store and Tokushima store opened in November.

2012

• Introduced "Versalite Jacket & Pants", the world's lightest complete waterproof hardshell at the time. (See photo)
• Introduced the Stream Jacket, a hardshell designed for extreme alpine conditions using tough materials. The Stream Jacket received praise from mountain professionals and the Alpine Guide Society for Japan adopted the Stream Jacket as their official uniform.
• Introduced the Polar Down Parka and Bib, designed using feedback from the Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition, polar explorers and polar adventurers. (See photo)
• Started the Otaria kayaking brand and introduced an 2-person inflatible kayak called the Bio Bio II.
• Tachyon Jacket won the OutDoor INDUSTRY GOLD AWARD 2012. (See photo)
• In January, opened a company booth at the Global Conference for a Nuclear Power Free World at the Yokohama Pacifico convention center.
• In April, Montbell Kisarazu store, Hiroshima Kamiya store, Daisetsu store and Tomakomai store opened.
• Began the the "Adventure School," a day of lectures from renowned adventurers and explorers to instill the spirit of adventure and share their knowledge and experiences.
• In May, Montbell Kagoshima store opened.
• The 2012 Sea to Summit events began with the Kaike Daisen event being held in Tottori Prefecture. In addition 4 other events were scheduled for 2012, Daisetsu Asahidake in Hokkaido Prefecture, Chokaisan in Akita and Yamagata Prefectures, Takatsugawa in Shimane Prefecture and Okukawachi in Osaka Prefecture.
• In July, construction was completed on the "Teno hira ni Taiyo" house in the disaster stricken area of Tome city in Miyagi Prefecture. (See photo)
• In September, Montbell Canal City Hakata and Montbell Nagoya Minato opened.
• In October, the sixth Montbell Challenge Award was awarded to aquaculturist Shigeatsu Hatakeyama.
• The seventh Montbell Challenge Award was awarded to the "Teno hira ni Taiyo" project.

2013

• Introduced Plasma 1000 Down Jacket, using 1,000 fill power quality goose down.
• The Quick Adjust System was developed as a way to quickly and simply adjust the torso length of a backpack. This system was first introduced in our women's line of day packs.
• Developed "Trail Gripper," shoe sole rubber that displays excellent grip in rocky and damp conditions.
• The Tachyon Jacket was awarded a Special Mention in the Lifestyle category of the German Design Award for 2014. (See photo)
• The Plasma 1000 Down Jacket and Crushable Lantern Shade won OutDoor Industry Awards at the OutDoor Show 2013. (See photo)
• Recognized by Superbrands Japan 2013-2014.
• Donated helmets to Nagano Prefecture's Search and Resuce. Also provided rental helmets to mountain huts in 4 areas.
• Four Sea to Summit events were scheduled for 2013. Daisetsu Asahidake in Hokkaido Prefecture, Chokaisan in Akita and Yamagata Prefectures, Kaike Daisen event in Tottori Prefecture and Okukawachi in Osaka Prefecture.
• In February, Montbell Abeno store opened.
• In March, Montbell Sapporo Hassamu and Montbell Yokohama Bayside reopened after rennovations.
• In April, Montbell Tokyo Kyobashi store and Montbell Umekita store opened.
• Created Friend Market, a way for Montbell Friend shops to sell food and reach a wider audience online.
• In May, Montbell Marui Ikebukuro opened.
• Montbell Tokyo Office relocated to Tokyo Minato-ku in Takanawa.
• In June, held the "Montbell Tateyama Alpen Hill Climb," the first bicycle race to take place along the Tateyama Kurobe Alpen Route. (See photo)
• Montbell Mark IS Minato Mirai store, Montbell Room Arima store, Montbell Toudaiji Monzen store and Montbell Shinagawa store opened.
• In August, the Montbell website for smartphones opened.
• In October, Montbell Leaf Minato Mirai store and Montbell Nagakute store opened.
• In America, Montbell Portland store opened. (See photo)
• In November, Montbell Niigata Bandai LoveLa 2 store opened.

2014

• DOWN HUGGER 900 #2, sleeping bag with 900 fill power goose down, received the BACKPACKER Magazine's "2014 Editors' Choice Award". (See photo)
• In January, introduced Montbell's bicycle brand "Scheidegg" with two new road bicycle models. (See photo)
• In March, a new series "Field Wear" was introduced to help those working in the agriculture and forestry industries. (See photo)
• In November, Montbell Founder and CEO published his book "Kiseki: My Outdoor Life."
• Announced a new project called,
  Japan Eco Track
  . In cooperation with the local government and businesses, this new style of eco tourism enables travelers enjoy local areas via the outdoors while at the same time helping to revitalize the local area.
• Five Sea to Summit events were scheduled for 2014. Daisetsu Asahidake in Hokkaido Prefecture, Chokaisan in Akita and Yamagata Prefectures, Kaike Daisen event in Tottori Prefecture, Okukawachi in Osaka Prefecture and Etajima in Hiroshima Prefecture.
• In September, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between Japan and Switzerland, a symposium was held, "A new choice for Japan, thinking about the Swiss model."
• In January, Montbell Matsuyama store opened.
• In March, Montbell Tendo store and Montbell Room Nihonbashi-Mitsukoshi opened.
• In April, Montbell LaLa terrace Musashikosugi store and Montbell Marui Kichijoji store opened.
• In June, Montbell Lalaport Kashiwaha store opened.
• In July, Montbell Fujiyoshida store opened.
• In October, Montbell Yamagata store and Montbell Lalaport Izumi store opened.
• In November, Montbell Room Hakuba Happo opened.
• Took over publishing of the mountaineering magazine "Gakujin" from Chunichi Shimbun. The first revamped issue was pubslished in September. (See photo)

2015

• Frost Line Parka received the BACKPACKER Magazine's "2015 Editors' Choice Snow Award".
• Introduced the eight version of the Storm Cruiser Jacket featuring Gore C-Knit Backer Technology. (See photo)
• Introduced new women's sleeping bag models in the Down Hugger 800 series.
• Introduced two new bicycles in the Scheidegg brand, a mountain bike and cross bike. (See photo)
• Introduced two climbing harnesses for alpine climbing and showering climbing.
• Introduced a new supplement for outdoor activities called "Amino Summit 3500."
• Seven Sea to Summit events were scheduled for 2015. The Ministry of the Environment awarded the Sea to Summit events the Minister's Good Life Award.
• The first official route for Japan ECO Track opened in Tottori Prefecture, the Sea to Summit Route. This route starts in Sakaiminato, goes along the Kaike coast and ends at the summit of Mt. Daisen.
• To celebrate Montbell's 40th annivesary, Montbell Club Gathering events were held in 8 locations in Japan attended exclusively by Montbell Club members.
• In January, construction was completed on the Montbell Hokuriku Logistics Center in Hakui city in Ishikawa Prefecture, increasing Montbell's logistics and manufacturing capacity.
• In February, Montbell Minami-Aso store opened.
• In March, Montbell Akishima Outdoor Village store and Montbell Room Sherpa Kumamoto opened.
• In April, Montbell Lalaport Fujimi store, Montbell Nagano store, Montbell Oita store, Montbell Okinawa Rycom store opened.
• In July, Montbell Makuhari store and Montbell Oyabe store opened.
• In September, Montbell Village Tateyama store (See photo) and Montbell Okachimachi store opened.
• In October, Montbell Lalaport Ebina store opened.
• In November, Montbell Lalaport Expocity store opened.
• In December, Montbell Niigata Minami store opened.
• Opend a new store in Zermatt, Switzerland

2016

• Superior insulation and lightweight, "Alpine Thermo Bottle 0.5L" received the OutDoor Industry Award. OutDoor Show is one of the world's largest international outdoor and sporting goods trade shows, and takes place in Friedrichshafen, Germany. (See photo)
• Introduced the world's lightest high quality down*, "Plasma 1000 Alpine Down Parka" using 1000 fill power down.
  *Based on Montbell's findings as of Dec. 2015.
• In January, Montbell's CEO Isamu Tatsuno received the Mainichi Shinbun's 36th Annual Businessperson of the Year Award.
• In February, Montbell provided outfits for the film "Everest: Kamigami no Itadaki."
• In April, Montbell Nanba City store opened.
• Helped victims of the Kumamoto Earthquake by organizing Outdoor GIENTAI. (See photo)
• In May, "The Project to Reproduce an Authentic Sea Voyage from 30,000 years ago" received the 8th Montbell Challenge Award.
• In June, Montbell Yokohama Shin-Yamashita Store opened. (See photo)
• In July, Montbell Post (web shopping) started the international shopping.
• In August, "SEA TO SUMMIT" received the 4th Sports Revitalization Award.
• In September, Montbell supported Monika Seryu, a kayak palalympian, with kayak racing jerseys and gears.
• Made a Regional Cooperation Agreement with Mie Prefecture.
• In November, Montbell Takasaki Store opened.

2017

• Montbell announced it's 7 Missions, a set of guiding principles for contributing to social issues through outdoor activities.
• Introduced the extremely durable and lightweight, Ridge Line Pack using BALLISTIC ULTRA fabric. (See photo)
• Introduced a protective pants, Ballistic Ultra Logger Pants for chainsawing (forestry work).
• Introduced fast-cooking and delicious, freeze-dried, Rissota series. (See photo)
• Incorporated flame resistant, Flaretect technology to garments.
• Montbell has made the National Parks of Japan Official Partnership agreement with the Japanese Ministry of the Environment.
• Made Regional Cooperation Agreement with Nagano and Tottori Prefecture's local government and Tenri University. (24 new areas in 2017. Total of 26 areas from 2016.)
• Japan Eco Track expands to 10 areas throughout Japan.
• Montbell supported the Women's Japanese National Team, THE RIVER FACE.
• The team won the World Rafting Championship 2017 at Yoshino River (Shikoku).
• Montbell supported Team KUROSHIO in the global autonomous ocean exploration competition "Shell Ocean Discovery XPRIZE".
• In March, Montbell Yokohama Kohoku and LaLaport Koshien store opened.
• In April, Montbell Futakotamagawa and LaLaport Iwata store opened.
• In July, Montbell Omiya store opened.
• In August, Montbell Books released a hiking guide book for remote islands, Shimayama 100-sen.
• In October, Montbell Head Office Annex store was reopened after renovation. (See photo)

2018

• "JAPAN ECO TRACK Ride in ASO 2018" was held.
• Introduced rain jackets using "K-MONO CUT," an innovative, originally developed pattern based on Montbell's philosophy of "Ki-no-bi (Function is Beauty)". (Photo: Torrent Flier Jacket with "K-MONO CUT" technology)
• Released a new waterproof backpack using the Roll Up Closure system.
• "JAPAN ECO TRACK" won the 6th Sport Promotion Award.
• "Outdoor GIENTAI" lauched the support program for the affected area by the successive heavy downpours in southwestern Japan in July.
• Montbell was awarded by Japan Foundation For Regional Vitalizaiton for its contribution to local revitalization.
• In March, Montbell Sendai Store reopened after renovation.
• In April, three new Montbell stores, Okhotsuk Koshimizu, Hitachinaka and Kokura, and a Montbell room Kujyu Chojabaru opened.
• In May, Montbell Room Gozaisho and Daisen Sando Ichiba Market (See photo) opened.
• In Jun, Friend Fair was held in Fukuoka for the first time.
• In September, two new Montbell stores, Hamamatsu and LaLaport Nagoya Minato AQULS opened.
• In December, Montbell Denver Store opened in Colorado, USA. (See photo)

2019

• In March, Kyoto store reopened New Outdoor facility "Montbell Gokayama Basecamp" and Gokayama store opened. (See photo)
• In April, Two new Montbell stores, Toyohashi and Kawasaki LeFRONT opened.
• In May, Montbell supported, THE RIVER FACE rafting team, won the second place at the World Championships in Australia.
• In June, Montbell supported, Team KUROSHIO, won the second place in the global autonomous ocean exploration competition "Shell Ocean Discovery XPRIZE".
• In July, Pasche Family who travelling around the world by bicycle since 2010 received the 9th Montbell Challenge Award. (See photo)
• In July, A base for enjoying the outdoors "Montbell Outdoor Village Motoyama" opened. Outdoor complex "Montbell Outdoor Oasis Ishizuchi Store" opened. Montbell room Oboke store reopened.
• In September, two new Montbell stores, Yamaguchi and Kumamoto SAKURA MACHI opened.
• In October, The Ignis Down Parka won Editors' Choice 2019 Snow Award. (See photo)
• In October, helped victims of typhoon Hagibis by organizing Outdoor GIENTAI.
• In October, Gifu Store opened.
• In November, two new Montbell stores, Grandberry Park and Otsukyo opened.

2020

• Introduced the Seamless Down Hugger, an innovative sleeping bag with no baffle or seams. (See photo)
• Introduced the Folding Fire Pit, a folding barbecue grill with a unique structure that achieves high combustion efficiency. (See photo)
• Hiroki Sekiguchi, an adventurer who is undertaking a "human-powered traverse of Canada in the harsh winter season", received the 10th Montbell Challenge Award.
• In April, Outdoor GIENTAI began to supply aid to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Outdoor GIENTAI donated face shields (Photo: Hyogo Prefectural Kakogawa Medical Center)

• In June, Roppongi Hills store opened.
• In July, Friend Fair Online was held for the first time.
• Outdoor GIENTAI began to supply aid to those affected by heavy rain in Japan.
• Nature Navigator Montbell Room Nagatoro store opened.
• In August, Akita Misato store opened.
• In September, LUCUA Osaka store opened.
• In October, Minoh Q's Mall store opened.
• In December, Bokenjuku, an "Adventure School", was held online.

2021

• The Seamless Down Hugger WR 900 #3 received the 2021 Editors' Choice Award from Outdoor, a German outdoor magazine.
• Launched the SCOUT GEAR product category through a joint project with the Boy Scouts of Japan. (See photo)
• The Field Cool Full-Zip Hoodie was jointly developed with the Women in Agriculture Project, which is promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan.
• Announced the One-Pack, a backpack designed for the school commute and developed in collaboration with the town of Tateyama in Toyama. (See photo)
• Yuki Sekiguchi, an adventurer and winner of the 10th Montbell Challenge Award, successfully completed a 650 km solo trek across Siberia's Lake Baikal on foot in winter.
• Awarded the Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, a medal of honor in Japan.
• Montbell Club membership exceeds 1 million members. (See photo)
• Released the official Montbell App.
• Opened the Japan Hometown Tax Payment page in Montbell website.
• Opened the Echizen Ono Store (April).
• Opened the Ikebukuro Tobu Store (October).

2022

• Launched the Seamless Burrow Bag featuring the combination of proprietary EXCELOFT insulation and a seamless construction. (See photo)
• The One-Pack, designed for commuting to school, went on sale nationwide.
• The Moonlight Cabin 4 won the BE-PAL Outdoor Award 2022 Grand Prize. (See photo)
• Outdoor GIENTAI provided support to those affected by the Marshall Fire in Colorado, USA.
• Outdoor GIENTAI donated money as aid to Akita, Yamagata, and Fukui Prefectures in the aftermath of the August 2022 torrential rain disaster.
• Photographer Yuka Komatsu won the 11th Montbell Challenge Award.
• Started the Mountain Health Checkup, a project formed in collaboration with the Kyoto University Field Science Education and Research Center to collect water from rivers across Japan.
• Held the Montbell Club Friend Fair in Montbell Friend Areas in Japan. It was held in July in the town of Higashikawa in Hokkaido, and in October the town of Motoyama in Kochi.
• Opened the Tokushima Store, Minami Furano Store, and Yahata Store (April).
• Opened Montbell Outdoor Village Nara, the Montbell Store with the largest sales floor area at approximately 2,500m2 (October). (See photo)

2023

• Developed a dedicated jacket for Disaster Medical Assistance Teams (DMAT). (See photo)
• Launched the Quick-Fit Wakan Snowshoes and Alpine Snowshoes 56. (See photo)
• Began the custom, original print service on the Montbell website.
• The Pasche Family, who travel the world by bicycle, won the 12th Montbell Challenge Award.
• Held the Montbell Club Friend Fair in Montbell Friend Areas in Japan. It was held in March in the town of Tateyama in Toyama, and in September the town of Daisen in Tottori.
• Construction was completed and operation started at the Hokuriku Montbell Ono Distribution Center (March). (See photo)
• Opened the Bayside Beach Saka Store and Osaka Kadoma Store (April).
• Montbell CEO Isamu Tatsuno was inducted into the International Whitewater Hall of Fame (September).
• Opened the Iiyama Store (November).

2024

• Announced the "FanBlow Vest" that uses an electric fan to circulate air in the garment, allowing for comfortable activity even in hot weather
• Developed "DRY-TEC," a waterproof breathable material pursuing excellent breathability
• The DRY-TEC Peak Shell Jacket won the Outdoor Wear category award at the "BE-PAL Outdoor Award 2024"
• Launched the "Granite" climbing shoes
• Outdoor Volunteer Corps Begins Support for the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, July 2024 Akita-Yamagata Heavy Rains, and 2024 Noto Peninsula Heavy Rain Disasters
• Our global site renewed and reopened
• In April, Montbell Club Friend Fair held at Friend Area Kujukuri. Opened Daisen Camp Site and Nagoya Sakae Store
• Opened the Nikaho Store (June)
• Opened the Tateyama Base Camp (July)
• Opened the Tenri Store (August)
• Opened the Sakuho Store inside the Montbell-designed Michi-no-Eki (roadside station) "Yachiho Kogen" (September)
• In November, founder and CEO Isamu Tatsuno wrote the "My Personal History" series for the Nikkei Newspaper