Black Diamond

A pioneering climbing company

The real story began several years earlier. In 1957, climber Yvon Chouinard was just 19 when he started manufacturing climbing pitons. He felt those on the market weren't robust enough. At the same time, he was crafting steel carabiners in a small workshop in his parents' backyard. He then sold his accessories from the boot of his van. This is how Chouinard Equipment Ltd was born.

Chouinard, who also founded the famous Patagonia brand in 1973, played a major role in the birth of modern climbing. As traditional equipment damaged the rock, the young company began designing clean climbing equipment. This climbing style leaves the wall intact after the ascent and doesn't damage the rock. The company rapidly developed to become the leading supplier of climbing equipment.

The birth of Black Diamond

Unfortunately, Chouinard Equipment Ltd went bankrupt in the late 1980s. It was then bought by employees and customers of the brand. In 1989, the company was renamed Black Diamond Equipment. The brand relocated from Ventura, California to Salt Lake City, Utah to be closer to the mountains and their numerous activities: climbing but also skiing, trail running, trekking, mountaineering...

Black Diamond continued its development whilst maintaining its principles: remaining pioneering in its field whilst upholding ethical commitment. Climbing remains at the heart of the business, but the company has significantly expanded its hiking equipment range with headtorches, trekking poles, rucksacks and even tents.

Today, Black Diamond Equipment has an international presence (particularly in Europe since 1996) and continues to support numerous organisations such as Leave No Trace, The Nature Conservancy and Outdoor Industry Foundation.

Buy Black Diamond equipment on Freezedriedandco.com

The Freezedried & Co team has worked with Black Diamond for many years to bring you the best accessories for your outdoor activities. From headtorches to trekking poles, we offer a wide range of versatile and robust outdoor equipment. All Black Diamond products come with a warranty ranging from 1 to 3 years.