On Wednesday 4 March 2026, at the Hôtel des Arts et Métiers in Paris, Cimalp reached a pivotal moment in its history. In our first entry into the national rankings, you carried us to a major double distinction: Best Brand 2026 in the "Sports Equipment" and "Sportswear and Footwear" categories.
We're sharing this news today not to collect trophies, but to say thank you. With over 122,500 votes, this recognition is first and foremost yours. It's the reward of an adventure that began in 1964, driven by a simple ambition: to make technical innovation accessible to everyone who lives and breathes the mountains.
Competing with the giants: earning trust
Standing up to global references like Salomon, Adidas or Decathlon sends a strong signal. For an SME like ours, it's not just a question of market share — it's a question of trust.
The figures from your votes speak for themselves and mean a great deal to us:
- 9.73/10 overall satisfaction for our shoes and clothing.
- 9.76/10 level of trust placed in the brand.
As Lionel Marsanne, our Chief Executive, puts it:
« This recognition is a genuine source of pride and a powerful signal for an SME like ours. It confirms that a model built on uncompromising product standards, meaningful innovation designed for real practitioners, close ties with our community and controlled growth can establish itself durably in a rapidly changing market. It commits us to keep raising our standards and to stay true to what makes us strong: people. »
The Footwear Segment: Innovation in the service of the terrain
One of the most significant aspects of this title is our breakthrough in the outdoor shoe segment. Winning in this category against established specialists proves that Cimalp's technical expertise is now recognised at the very highest level.
Technical Focus: Why our shoes make the difference
We don't see the shoe as an accessory, but as a precision tool. Our success is built on uncompromising technical choices:
- Advanced engineering: Our Ultrashell® membranes (record breathability) and cushioning systems are designed to adapt to the shape of your foot under exertion.
- Real-world testing: Our 40 ambassadors and athletes put every prototype through its paces on the toughest trails before it ever reaches your feet.
- durable commitment: As the opposite of disposable, we focus on robustness and offer a lifetime repair service, because good kit is kit that lasts.
An independent SME, rooted in the Drôme
If Cimalp can today compete with the biggest names in the industry, it's by staying true to its roots. Our independence is our greatest freedom. It's what allows us to drive our entire strategy — from R&D to marketing — from our headquarters in the Drôme, near Valence.
2025 marked a new milestone with the opening of our new 7,000 m² facility. This €10 million investment is more than a building: it's a strengthened R&D hub and state-of-the-art logistics to serve you better, across France and Europe. Our direct-to-consumer (D2C) model lets us cut out the middleman and offer you the very best technology at the fairest price.
The team spirit: the future is built together
Winning the Best Brand 2026 Trophy is not a finish line — it's an accelerator. We will continue to raise our standards, investing heavily in the durability of our products and extending their lifespan.
At Cimalp, we move forward with humility, guided by that "team spirit" that means so much to us. Whether you're a trail runner, hiker or alpinist, this title is a mark of confidence for your next adventures. Thank you for pushing us, every day, to go further.
