Manifattura Colombo is synonymous with snow, mountains, and winter sports, but also with clothing for the beach, city, and leisure. The collections combine experience with the ability to remain constantly fresh in order to anticipate market trends. Mario Colombo’s passion dates back to 1923, when he decided to found the factory that still bears his name in Monza.

The story begins with a packet of cigarettes on which the company founder passed around a few ideas for the company name among his friends. They settled on a combination of three letters from his first name and three from his last: Colmar. As skiing was starting to gain popularity in the mountains, Colmar began manufacturing felt hats in Monza. It then moved on to breeches and work clothes. Small groups of pioneers were taking to the slopes.

They called them “skiatori”, insisting on the ‘k’ – a letter not found in the Italian alphabet.

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        In 2011, Colmar has taken on some new and prestigious projects.

At the 68th BMW Italian Open, the company signed a three-year agreement with the French Ski Federation. This partnership reinforces the most competitive, high-tech side of Colmar, which is now supplying the team across the Alps with items featuring the bold colors of the French flag. This season will be an opportunity to take an active part in the performance of one of the strongest national ski teams – one that boasts unmistakable style and elegance.

The 2011 winter season will also see Colmar’s launch in the world of freestyle, thanks to new business dealings with Jon Olsson. One of the most popular and successful freestylers in the world, Olsson has inspired the design of Colmar’s new collection of free-spirited items, which optimize the technological know-how Colmar has gained through decades of experience.

….Always up with the times and latest technology, Colmar is going online with IN CASO DI. The company’s long-lived house organ, which has now reached its 230th issue, is packing its bags and moving to the web…