Freedom of movement has always been at the core of Gramicci’s brand identity. A label created in the pursuit of making rock-climbing clothing that would not restrict the wearer. Founded in 1982 by Mike Graham, Gramicci creates utilitarian garments, constructed for the day-to-day and exploration in the great outdoors. A brand that had its beginning in a garage in Ventura, California has made its entrance into the streetwear scene of Tokyo and beyond. An outdoors brand with an undeniably rich heritage drawing from a wide range of cultures, Gramicci was founded in America, now based in Japan with an Italian name.
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Gramicci's focus on freedom of movement stems from Graham's experience as a Stonemaster in the 70's. The Stonemasters were a group of rock climbers who revolutionised the public's perception of rockclimbing, through their integration of the sport into their day-to-day lives. There was a certain air of confidence that was born from their ritualistic approach to rock climbing. Fresh out of highschool Graham and his friends resided in the climbing hotspots of Southern California: Joshua Tree, Tahquitz Peak and Yosemite National Park. Living and breathing in the air of the vast landscape gifted the group with a certain air of invincibility. In an interview with GQ back in 2016 Mike Graham describes the Stonemaster's experimental attitude towards climbing 'It was a cockiness, a confidence that you have because you survived this pitch, it makes you feel like "maybe I'm untouchable"
Nevertheless there was more to the Stonemasters than just their experimental attitude towards climbing, but also their unparalleled approach towards pioneering personal style within the world of climbing. Inspired by the style niche created by surfers at the time, the Stonemasters created their own aesthetic, one that evolved around white painter trousers, matching bandanas and a chalk bag. One of their first sell-out pieces introduced by the Stonemasters were the gadget pants.
The Gadget Pants were re-introduced last year, after making their original debut in the early 90’s. The Gadget Pant is an evolution of the classic G-Pant climbing trousers created by Mike Graham in the 80s, combining the diamond crotch gusset and built-in belt with design features from the military and workwear world. The Gadget Pants were conceived at a time when outdoors sports were heavily becoming equipment-oriented with an increasing prevalence of technical gear being utilised in mountain expeditions. Hence this model of legwear was going against the cultural norm, standing by their application of hard-wear fabric and relaxed shape. Compared to the colourful tightly fitted lycra leggings that were dominating the climbing scene, the Gadget Pants could be worn in a much more versatile manner. A pant that can be worn in a variety of contexts, including a bouldering competition or on a bike ride or trip to the grocery store.
Latest Gramicci available online and in-store now!
