Skiers and premium outerwear are a match made in heaven. There are plenty of older brands out there, but who is pushing the boundaries and innovating the space? Today we’re discussing the upcoming brand Cortazu.
Cortazu first came into the spotlight in 2018 with a crowdfunding campaign for a premium outerwear set consisting of multiple layers that boasted industry leading performance, at affordable prices. Since then they have raised over 1.2 Million Euros in crowdfunding and have been awarded best hard shell jacket at the ISPO Awards in 2019. So, what are the reasons this brand has been able to build such major hype in such a small amount of time? We have summarised the most important points below.
[1] The performance speaks for itself
The jackets are extremely waterproof while remaining breathable. With hard shell jackets exceeding waterproof levels of 25,000mm and breathability levels of 20,000g/m², you really are at the top level of technical performance for hitting the slopes. Whether it’s heavy rain or cold snow, the jackets will be able to protect you in any kind of situation.
[2] Features in abundance for outdoor enthusiasts
The Cortazu Hard Shells are packed full of 20+ features comprising of 54 individual components, many of which go above and beyond the expectations of a premium skiing jacket. Helmet compatible hood with Cohaesive™ adjustable cords, fully taped seams and waterproof zippers, dedicated separate ski pass and sunglasses/goggle wiper pockets, and RECCO® rescue system are just a few of the features that stand out.
[3] Give back to nature
Cortazu tackles climate change in a direct sense, by re-greening our planet in the most at risk areas with every single product that they sell. They are partnering with Justdiggit for greening land at the foot of Kilimanjaro. So far, +500,000 m2 of land has been regreened and an additional 62 m2 is added for every new jacket sold.
[4] Direct to consumer pricing philosophy
Cortazu follows a no-nonsense business model. The products are sold directly to the customer while avoiding high retail markups that drive up the price. By doing so, they are able to deliver premium products, comparable with the best brands in the industry, at a much better price point. Read more about their pricing philosophy in this article.
[5] ISPO Gold Award Winners
At the world’s largest trade fair for outdoor brands, Cortazu was chosen by a jury panel of 43 judges and received an ISPO Gold award in 2019 for best Hard Shell jacket.
[6] Pending B-Corp Certified
Cortazu are currently in the advanced stages of becoming an official B-corporation. B Corp Certification is the only certification that measures a company’s entire social and environmental performance. An example of Cortazu’s environmental improvements are their hard shell and mid-layer jackets which are made of 50% of recycled materials.
[7] Made by Mutuals
Cortazu was founded by two regular friends with a passion for getting out there and hitting the slopes. No angel investors, corporate deals, or retail arrangements, just two genuine outdoor enthusiasts committed to make the best gear at affordable prices whilst preserving the planet.
Are you interested? The Cortazu jackets are now available for purchase by clicking here (limited availability).
