CimAlp, a French outdoor specialist brand since 1964, offers all the equipment you need for your hikes — innovative, high-quality products designed to meet your expectations and needs, whatever your activity.
A concentration of technologies for your mountain activities
CimAlp, a French brand specialising in technical sportswear, offers an extensive clothing collection. If you're looking to gear up for your next outdoor adventures, check out our complete guide to everything you need to know about hiking clothing and gear up properly.
In our clothing range, you'll find water-repellent treatments bearing the Bluesign label — practical in cold and snowy conditions — breathable jackets to wick away perspiration during effort, and quick-drying performance after. Anti-odour treatments are also a bonus during intense effort or simply in the heat. Style and elegance are also constant priorities at CimAlp. Our 3-layer outfits provide insulation against cold and snow, our fabrics guarantee waterproofing, and waterproof flat seams seal out water and snow.
At Cimalp, we have also developed warm clothing for your winter hikes. From Merino wool base layers offering natural antibacterial properties and warmth, to modern stretch fleeces featuring our Cimaflex technology, through to PrimaLoft Black Thermoplume down jackets — you'll find everything you need for a winter hiking adventure.
Explore our technologies to stay dry:
- The Ultrashell membrane, comparable to Gore-Tex® by Meindl®, with 20,000 mm waterproofing and 80,000 g/m²/24h breathability — ideal for the most intense activities requiring complete protection: ultra-trail, mountaineering, ski touring, etc. This technology is available across a wide range of hiking jackets and trousers.
- The hardshell membrane in 3-layer fabric — a perfect entry-level option for hiking that will keep you dry and protected from the wind.
- The softshell fabric used on trousers and jackets for versatile, warm, waterproof and breathable products.
A complete range for mountain sports
Softshell jackets, t-shirts, breathable and lightweight base layers, technical trousers with reinforcements, Merino thermal base layers and technical hiking socks….it's all here!
Are you more into mountaineering, fast hiking, mountain biking or ski touring? You'll find lightweight or warm trousers to keep you comfortable when it's cold and snowy. A shirt that doesn't crease, dries quickly and is very easy to care for — suitable for travel and hiking alike in mild conditions. You'll also have a wide choice of mountain trousers, ultra-resistant and stretch for excellent freedom of movement. Plus waterproof trousers and others specially designed for nordic walking.
How to dress for hiking?
When hiking, dressing properly is essential. To do so, you need to consider several factors such as the weather, the duration of the hike and the type of terrain. For the upper body, start with a base layer using a hiking t-shirt. It should be comfortable, breathable and close-fitting, made from synthetic materials such as polyester or merino wool. Then for mountain hikes or in cool conditions, a second insulating layer is needed. The mountain fleeces and lightweight down jackets are perfect for this. To protect yourself from wind and rain, a third protective layer is essential. Choose a waterproof and breathable jacket. A softshell jacket can be a great option for added warmth and excellent breathability. For the lower body, lightweight stretch trousers are ideal for hiking. 2-in-1 trousers that convert into shorts are also practical for summer hikes. To kit out your feet, wear anti-blister or seamless second-skin socks to prevent friction. And for hiking shoes, look for a thick sole with good grip and solid ankle support.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of different materials for hiking clothing?
The choice of materials for hiking clothing depends on several factors, including the activity, weather conditions, intensity of physical effort, duration of the activity, and personal preference.
Cotton is soft, comfortable and easy to care for. However, it is not suitable for intense physical activity, as it absorbs sweat and moisture, which can lead to discomfort and cold. Cotton also takes a long time to dry and can cause irritation through friction. As for polyester, it is lightweight, resistant and quick-drying. It is also breathable and wicks moisture away to keep the body dry. However, some types of polyester can retain odours, and quality varies depending on fabric density. Finally, merino wool is soft, warm and moisture-resistant. It is also antibacterial and anti-odour. However, wool can be heavier than other materials.
How to care for your hiking clothing to make it last longer?
First and foremost, carefully read the washing labels on garments and follow the recommended instructions to avoid damaging the fabric or membrane. Turn garments inside out before washing to protect the fibres. Do not use fabric softener, as it can clog the fabric pores and reduce the breathability of the garment. For detergent, it is recommended to use products specially designed for sportswear and hiking clothing. Avoid machine drying where possible, as it can damage the fabric and shorten its lifespan — air drying is preferable.
All the products you'll find here feature a perfect, stylish and modern cut. Known for its quality finish of its products, CimAlp offers the 2-year guarantee of all its garments with an exceptional quality-to-price ratio and the assurance of a secure purchase.
Also explore our full range of all our warm down jackets. Complete your hiking kit with our range of walking poles.