KARPOS – PROGRESSIVE OUTDOOR APPAREL STRAIGHT FROM THE DOLOMITES

High-performance x sustainability

We wanted to learn more about what makes Karpos so unique, so we sat down for a chat with Sara Geronazzo, one of the brand’s Product Developer Managers. She shared insights into the brand’s philosophy, product development, technical innovation, and commitment to responsible resource use.

Hej Sara, can you tell us a little about yourself and your role at Karpos?
Hi! I’m Sara Geronazzo, a Product Developer Manager at Karpos. I joined the brand in 2016, having spent many years working for other companies in the outdoor sector. I work closely with our designers and material suppliers to manage the development process – from initial prototypes to final samples. I’m involved in selecting fabrics and trims, fixing the fitting, and managing delivery-to-market timelines.

Sara Geronazzo is Product Development Manager at Karpos​

If you had to describe Karpos in three words, what would they be – and why?
I would say technology, color & fit. Technology – because our gear is made to reach the highest point, whatever it is. No matter whether you’re an athlete or an outdoor enthusiast, we work to make you stop because you want, not because you have to. Color – because this is how we express our outdoor identity. We make the most out of our outings and we love to be different. There’s a color for every mountain addicted. Finally fit – because we design to minimize weight and make our garments your second skin, so you have the feeling not to wear them.

Karpos HQ is located near the Dolomites. How does this influence your collections? 
The Dolomites are in our DNA. On these rocks we have developed our most technical garments, especially for mountaineering. Partnerships with the “Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico” and world-class mountaineers as ambassadors have allowed us to test our collections on severe terrain and in challenging conditions, where every detail makes the difference. The Dolomites are our home. They frame all our dreams, aspirations, and goals.

What else inspires you when developing new products?
Of course, the market influences product development, as understanding consumer needs and trends is essential. At the same time, one of the key inspirations for us is the development in textile technologies. Innovative fabrics and sustainable materials are often the foundation of a new garment—they don’t just influence the design, but also enable us to improve functionality, comfort, and environmental impact. We also keep attention on sustainable and cutting-edge materials, which often spark fresh ideas and help us creating more responsible and future-designed products.

What drives innovation at Karpos? How do you stay ahead of the curve?
At Karpos, our passion for the mountains and the constant pursuit of performance, functionality, and responsibility drive innovation. We listen carefully to our athletes and product users, whose real-world experiences push us to improve and rethink our products.

Can you describe the testing phase of new materials and fits, before they are included in the collection? 
The testing phase is crucial and involves team members and athletes, who typically provide input and feedback that leads to the introduction of new features or the development of new solutions. Our ambassadors take prototypes from each collection into the world’s most extreme environments. From exposure to Patagonian wind gusts that reach 100 km/h to hellish temperatures in Death Valley, our apparel is regularly pushed to the limits. We then make the necessary adjustments based on the technical feedback we receive from field testing. We also devote a lot of care to fit. We test every product according to three definitions of fit (Body, Dynamic, Regular) before launching production.

How do you integrate sustainability into your collections? 
We select preferred materials, with an emphasis on recycled materials, natural fibers, and DWR treatment without any intentional addition of PFAS. In 2021, we committed to reducing the impact of our garments on the environment, animals, and consumer health through the MVC group Recycle, Reuse, Rethink. As a brand, we opted to engage with Agenda 2030 goals. We have also developed a family of upcycled garments by reusing reclaimed materials to inspire current and future generations about the importance of upcycling.

Working with responsible partners like Polygiene and integrating Polygiene StayFresh technology into our products allows us to further improve our supply chain sustainability while engaging the end user.

Is there a product in the current SS25 collection that you’re particularly proud of? 
We’re particularly proud of the Piz de Mez T-shirt (style 2531082) within the SS25 collection. It delivers the perfect balance of performance, sustainability, and comfort. Partially made with recycled polyester, the innovative, strong, breathable fabric guarantees excellent moisture management and is ideal for high-output activities in the mountains. The design is minimalist yet technical, which reflects our identity and ethos – we always prioritize functionality without compromising style.

What prompted the decision to further incorporate Polygiene tech into the SS26 collection?
After the success of our SS25 collection, we reintroduced 20 technical Polygiene StayFresh-treated T-shirts for mountaineering, hiking, and trekking. It ensures continuity from a technical perspective, enhancing performance by eliminating odors and encouraging prolonged use of the t-shirts. Odor-control technology also allows for less frequent washing, reducing water and energy consumption. T-shirts have volumes of sales & use, so these benefits add up to make a difference when it comes to environmental impact.

How do you envision the future of outdoor apparel? 
We see the future of outdoor apparel moving towards greater commitment to sustainability. This will probably mean more brands using recycled and recyclable materials. It will also encourage circular and transparent production methods that minimize waste. At the same time, users are becoming more environmentally conscious choosing durable, multi-use products that reflect their environmental values. It’s up to brands like Karpos to lead the shift, so we feel this is both an opportunity and a responsibility.

Do you have a personal ethos, mindset or practical advice for exploring the mountains? 
At Karpos, we live by the credo – Free to Keep Going – the payoff that has guided Karpos’ activities since its foundation in 2007.  To be free to keep going means never being satisfied and always searching for new vantage points – to aim and go higher and higher. At the same time, respect and safety are equally important elements when out in the mountains.

Finally, where can people buy Karpos products? 
Our garments are available in a network of about 700 physical and online stores, distributed worldwide (use the Karpos Store Finder from our website to find your nearest one), or on karpos-outdoor.com. We also attend trade fairs, industry meetings, competitions, and events around Europe. 

Big thanks to Sara for taking the time to speak to us and providing such fascinating insights into Karpos’ latest collection. You can learn more about Karpos apparel and browse products at
the brand’s website.

Learn more about Polygiene StayFresh.