Helinox has built a reputation for making some of the most desirable ultralight camping chairs on the market, but its latest collaboration pushes the brand even further into fashion territory.
The South Korean outdoor brand has joined forces with luxury fashion label WE11DONE on a small capsule collection that proves technical camping gear has fully crossed over into the world of designer fashion.
WE11DONE's signature draped tailoring is translated onto Helinox's iconic Chair One, creating soft folds across the seat fabric that mimic the look of contemporary fashion garments.
The chair uses Helinox's DAC aluminium alloy frame, weighs around 1 kg and supports up to 145 kg, which is to say it's incredibly lightweight and exceptionally sturdy at the same time.
It's finished with the metal piercing detail, giving one of the outdoor industry's most recognisable pieces an unmistakably high-fashion edge.
The collection also includes black and charcoal jersey T-shirts featuring the same furniture-inspired draping and metal hardware.
Camping goes couture
Outdoor brands are becoming increasingly influential in fashion circles.
From 66ºNorth's fashion-forward Trawler Collection to Altra's collaboration with Japanese cult brand and wander, technical gear is increasingly being designed with everyday style in mind.
Up until now, camping furniture manufacturers weren't part of the conversation, but this is evidently changing.
If this collection is anything to go by, lightweight, foldable chairs and tables might be getting the same treatment, appearing in luxury boutiques, design exhibitions and fashion collaborations.
And Helinox is leading the charge, thanks to its instantly recognisable aluminium-framed chairs.
Both Helinox and WE11DONE were founded in South Korea and have built international reputations by combining clean design with premium craftsmanship.
While Helinox focuses on engineering some of the lightest portable outdoor furniture on the market, WE11DONE has earned a cult following for its oversized silhouettes and contemporary take on luxury fashion.
For outdoor style enthusiasts, the collaboration feels like another milestone in the ongoing "gorpcore" evolution.
Technical gear is no longer simply being worn in the city but is increasingly being reimagined through the lens of luxury fashion.
The WE11DONE x Helinox capsule launched on 31 July, with the limited-edition Tactical Chair and matching apparel available through WE11DONE and selected retail partners.
Both the chair and the T-shirt sell for ₩300,000 (~£156 / $210 / €182 / AU$299).
[via Hypebeast]
