Over the years, CIMALP has patented numerous technologies for clothing and accessories designed for mountain sports. Ultrashell and Cimashell membranes, ethical Cimaloft insulation, Cimadry thermal regulation and the freedom of movement offered by Cimaflex: these are essential outdoor innovations that help adventurers and athletes push further. With CIMALP, reach your goals with complete confidence and maximum comfort.
Innovation in the service of performance
Within this SME based in the Drôme, the R&D team is dedicated to developing cutting-edge products. This is indeed the specialist field of CIMALP's CEO, Lionel Marsanne. With a background in engineering, he is passionate about making technical innovation accessible to everyone. Numerous patented technologies have emerged through his work, competing directly with those found elsewhere in the outdoor sports market.
CIMALOFT® — water-resistant eco-designed down jackets
The French outdoor clothing and equipment brand recently developed CIMALOFT technology. It delivers thermal insulation as warm as goose down. Ideal for mountain outings and everyday use alike, this insulation made from biological fibres combines lightness and performance.
It is featured in the brand's warm winter down jackets: the "Ecrins", "Morzine" and "Montets" models. In the form of small fibre down clusters, CIMALOFT insulation provides the same thermal performance as natural down. This outstanding ethical alternative to goose or duck feathers keeps the body warm throughout winter.
Lightweight and ultra-compressible, it also offers superior protection in wet conditions thanks to its hydrophobic properties, for maximum comfort. It sets a new benchmark, equivalent to a 550 cuin goose down construction. Inspired by nature and enhanced by science, this insulation stands among the most effective on the outdoor market. A level of performance and efficiency highly valued by mountain sports enthusiasts.
The ULTRASHELL® membrane — the ultimate in waterproofing and breathability
The Ultrashell membrane by CIMALP is waterproof and ultra-breathable. With a base of 20,000 Schmerbers, it delivers optimal waterproofing against rain and snow. It also provides total windproofing. With a breathability rating of 80,000 g/m²/24h, it ranks among the best membranes on the market. Built with extremely durable 3-layer fabrics, the Ultrashell membrane guarantees maximum product durability and performance. That's why it is trusted by mountain professionals: guides, instructors, high-altitude rescue teams and firefighters.
This premium technology was launched a few years ago, initially in a waterproof hiking jacket. Today it is used across a range of products including waterproof overtrousers, trail running jackets and waterproof trail trousers. The trail jacket has also been developed in a 2.5-layer fabric, making for an even lighter product with outstanding performance (10,000 Schmerbers and 12,500 g/m²/24h). The "Storm" is currently the brand's best-selling trail jacket, approved for ultra races such as the UTMB® and the Diagonale des Fous. The technical performance is remarkable.
AERODRY — an innovative patented system for maximum breathability!
After patenting the high-performance Ultrashell® CimAlp membrane in 2016, CIMALP's CEO Lionel Marsanne — the team's number one — set himself a new challenge: to develop a technology capable of ventilating a garment more effectively without compromising on waterproofing.
Working alongside a Scientific and Technical Research organisation, CIMALP's R&D team ran extensive tests until they reached a definitive conclusion: the perfect balance between breathability and waterproofing relies on a 3 cm diameter opening in the membrane. AERODRY was born — a system of optimal aeration providing permanent active ventilation, unlike a zip. "It works with the body's movements. For example, when arms move during hiking or trail, pressure and depression zones are created, like squeezing a balloon," explains Lionel Marsanne. "On current garments, air escapes at the neck, wrists or zips — often positioned under the arms and only when they're open. With the Aerodry, air circulation is continuous and the system can be placed in more effective positions."
CIMALP has added Cyclone technology to this innovative fabric. It draws moisture from inside the fabric and pushes it outward, enabling a 10x faster moisture transfer. Your skin stays dry even during intense effort. CIMADRY
CIMASHELL® — the ideal barrier against cold and bad weather
In terms of waterproof and breathable fabrics, the CIMASHELL membrane is recognised for its multiple properties: insulating, water-repellent, breathable and windproof. Patented by CIMALP, it withstands water pressure of up to 10,000 mm and delivers a breathability rating of 10,000 g/m²/24h. Stretchy and supremely comfortable, it is also built-to-last and resistant to winds exceeding 60 km/h.
It is integrated into a range of the French brand's products: all-season hiking trousers, ski jackets and trousers, CIMALP 3-layer softshell garments, and gloves for cold-weather sports (ski touring, trail running, nordic walking). For activities involving variable conditions, CIMASHELL acts as a powerful barrier against cold and bad weather, making it the perfect ally in autumn and winter.
CIMAFLEX® technology — freedom of movement
The innovative CIMAFLEX POWER fabric is warm, breathable and stretchy. It delivers an excellent weight-to-warmth ratio, outstanding breathability and exceptional freedom of movement. This mid-layer is warm and technical — ideal for active sports in cold conditions as well as everyday use. And it's twice as stretchy as a standard fabric, giving you incredible freedom, comfort and flexibility.
The 3D-FLEX® weave developed by the Drôme-based brand guarantees a truly 100% stretch garment. CIMAFLEX moves with you in every activity — whether hiking, trail running or ski touring — thanks to its versatility and durability.
Optimal thermal comfort with CIMADRY®
With its CIMADRY technology, the Drôme-based manufacturer tackled the challenge of delivering optimal thermal regulation for athletes during effort. Drawing on years of innovation, the brand has succeeded in combining breathability, technical performance and lightness with its smart-dry breathable fabric. Thermal regulation is rapid with garments featuring CIMADRY technology, which dries 10 times faster than standard fabric. A guaranteed sensation of freshness and breathability!
CIMALP has added Cyclone technology to this innovative fabric. It draws moisture from inside the fabric and pushes it outward, enabling a 10x faster moisture transfer. Your skin stays dry even during intense effort. CIMADRY | Cyclone jerseys therefore offer better evaporation to cool your body, boosting your performance and endurance.
The CIMADRY knit, a highly stretchy piqué construction, is both supple and lightweight. It has a very soft hand feel combined with excellent moisture transfer. This ultra-breathable effect is enhanced by the CIMAFRESH anti-odour technology, which promotes rapid evaporation of perspiration. Its natural treatment based on silver salts prevents the growth of bacteria and unpleasant odours. In short, an exceptionally fluid material that delivers a lasting sense of hygiene and freshness.
Thoughtful, responsible design
To limit its ecological impact, French brand CIMALP has decided to certify all its fabrics with the BLUESIGN® label.
The BLUESIGN® label, created by Swiss company Bluesign Technologies AG in 2000, looks beyond the finished product to the entire textile supply chain. This approach helps reduce its impact on both people and the environment. The aim of the label is to connect chemical suppliers, textile manufacturers and brands in order to promote a healthy, responsible and profitable textile industry. The label therefore requires lower water and energy consumption in manufacturing, and fabrics free from any toxic substances. It seeks to preserve natural resources and reduce environmental impact.
At CIMALP, being able to assess and reduce natural resource consumption — particularly in the dyeing and finishing of products — was paramount. The brand is also among the pioneering brands to have eliminated polyfluorinated substances (PFCs) from its products. Indeed, the water-repellent and stain-resistant DWR treatment on its fabrics is PFC-free and derived from renewable resources.
Another commitment to the environment: driven by a zero-waste ethos, the brand prioritises garment repair wherever possible, backed by a dedicated after-sales service.
