Dan says “I originally started to explore using natural fibre fabrics, but without compromising performance… so the weaknesses certain fabrics have, will be improved by non-intrusive technology. For example applying a membrane on the inside of a Gabardine shell, will not effect its feel or natural breathability, but will secure its waterproof ability. Secondly I’m keen to celebrate our heritage on the mountain, which can be further emphasised through visual stylings…like retaining the lapel and storm flap. but again, adapting it so function isn’t compromised and still allowing it to zip all the way to the top.

Mallory Replica Gabardine Jacket. Copyright MHT

What I’ve got to figure out is how far I go with the traditional styling and design. I could go the Nigel Cabourn route and follow the original design as close as possible, but still reinforce it with additional technology to fit the needs of the modern user (and sell at a lower price point for a wider market). Or I use influence from the original design and style more subtly, so it fits within the outdoor market more easily.”  Further information on the proposal can be found here and details of the jacket are here.

This is a work in progress so feel free to pass your own comments to Dan via daniel2.smith@northumbria.ac.uk

The papers include expedition documents, correspondence, press cutting scrapbooks and manuscript drafts of Sir Chris’ books, all of which detail the unique nature and long term value surrounding his lifetime’s work as a mountaineer, journalist, photographer and, at times, diplomat and ambassador.  Chris Bonington started climbing in 1951 at the age of 16, pioneering new rock routes in the UK, before moving out to the Alps in the late fifties, making important British first ascents and struck out into the Himalaya in 1960 with the first ascent of Annapurna II, a peak only a few metres short of 8000.  He went on to lead the successful Annapurna South Face and Everest South West Face expeditions in the 1970s and took part in the development of compact light-weight expeditions.

Chris Bonington on Prana Black Crag Borrowdale © Chris Bonington Picture Library

 Sir Chris Bonington said “I have kept all the correspondence, papers and diaries from all of my expeditions over the last 48 years in a shed at the bottom of my garden which reflects some of the most important British expeditions of the 60s, 70s and 80s.  I’m delighted that these are now going to see the light of day thanks to the expertise of Maxine Willett, Archivist of the Mountain Heritage Trust and, most important of all, will be made available to the mountaineering community and anyone wanting to research this element of mountain history.”

To celebrate the opening of this fascinating collection, we present some images to highlight items contained therein. Images can be purchased from the Chris Bonington Picture Library. A copy of the catalogue is available here.

Further Information is available here.