| Black Diamond | Climbing & Hiking Gear

Black Diamond was founded by Peter Metcalf, a lifelong adventure seeker whose passion for mountaineering turned into a mission to equip others with climbing gear they could trust in the most demanding environments. From climbing harnesses and helmets to trekking poles and headlamps, Black Diamond equipment gives adventurers the freedom to explore and reach new summits with confidence. Every Black Diamond product supports you with the same reliability and commitment you’d expect from a trusted partner on your journey - safeguarding every step of the climb, ski tour or mountain trek. 

As a young climber, Metcalf became one of the youngest mountaineers to conquer Canada’s Mount Robson. However, his most defining experience came in 1980 on the formidable Mount Hunter in Alaska, where starvation, frostbite and violent storms threatened his survival. Against all odds, his team of three reached basecamp, and that journey of determination and perseverance became a source of strength that later inspired the creation of Black Diamond. 

Compared to the life-threatening challenges of that climb, building a company was a small mountain to scale - but one that required equal passion, grit and vision. From those roots, Black Diamond gave a new life to the climbing equipment company Chouinard Equipment, and continues to be committed to designing adventure gear that doesn’t just perform but empowers mountaineers of all levels to achieve more in the outdoors.

Black Diamond crafts high-performance gear through precision engineering and an unwavering commitment to athletes who push the limits of possibility. This philosophy is nurtured by their vibrant community of designers, engineers and outdoor enthusiasts that are passionate about climbing, skiing and mountain exploration. 

Innovation is central to the Black Diamond design process, but so is trust. The brand sees its relationship with its athletes as a partnership, creating equipment that you can depend on when it matters most. Every piece of Black Diamond climbing equipment and hiking gear reflects that philosophy. Black Diamond equipment is tested both in unforgiving mountain conditions and in rigorous lab environments to ensure each performs with unmatched reliability in every step of your expedition. 

Black Diamond equipment is designed to perform seamlessly, giving you the confidence to climb higher and venture further. Black Diamond trekking poles give you the stability to move efficiently over steep terrain on the approach while easing strain on your knees and joints. As you gear up at the base, lightweight yet durable women’s climbing harnesses and men’s climbing harnesses provide a secure, tailored fit designed for comfort and safety during long days at the crag. 

On the wall, lightweight climbing helmets deliver protection without restricting movement, and climbing carabiners with an optimal strength-to-weight ratio offer confidence with every clip. Climbing chalk and chalk bags keep your grip steady on the smallest holds, while powerful, lightweight Black Diamond headlamps illuminate alpine climbs and late descents. 

Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, Black Diamond is passionate about protecting the natural landscapes that inspire adventure. Together with co-founder Maria Cranor, Metcalf envisioned a brand that would always be “one with the sports we serve.” This sense of environmental responsibility has fueled ongoing innovation and set the tone for the company’s future. 

Black Diamond is an advocate for clean climbing and conservation, leading the way in minimising environmental impact by rejecting fixed bolts and pitons in favour of climbing gear that leaves nature as untouched as possible. Their 2030 sustainability goals include cutting carbon emissions in half, increasing the use of eco-preferred materials and extending product lifecycles. By designing durable climbing gear that lasts longer, Black Diamond reduces waste and environmental impact - ensuring every purchase helps protect wild places for the next generation.

For Black Diamond, outdoor exploration is not just about performance - it’s about making adventure a positive force accessible to everyone.