15 Years of Optimization | 15 Years of Tsurugi Jacket vol.3
15 years of optimisation of the Tsurugi jacket
15 YEARS OF OPTIMIZATION, THE TSURUGI JACKET
Updates that began in the second year
Counting from that development stage, the optimization process for the "Tsurugi Jacket" has already spanned 15 years. However, even if you compare the first released model with the current product side by side, not many people would notice the difference.
This reflects the update policy of not pursuing major changes, but rather maturing through optimization.
The first model of the Tsurugi Jacket was released in 2013. The coloring and material feel are reminiscent of the era, but it's difficult to find any other differences when compared to the current model.
The first update was made the year after the product was released. This time, we focused on reviewing the sewing line. We thoroughly identified the complicated parts and replaced them with stitching that was as simple as possible.
For example, the inner mesh pocket is sewn to the body with a gusseted frame around it, but part of it interferes with the angle of the front zipper, creating strain on the sewing process.
We therefore simplified the stitching by revising the frame shape, and also corrected the curved stitching lines to be as straight as possible.
By simplifying the stitching lines, the strength of the garment increases and the time required for sewing is reduced.Furthermore, by simplifying the parts and reducing the number of sewing points, the difference in skill level between each seamstress is reduced, resulting in an overall improvement in sewing quality.
It's an unassuming improvement that might go unnoticed at first glance, but it was an essential part of the "optimization" process.
Comfort focused on by snowboarders
The Tsurugi Jacket was a pullover specifically designed for ice climbing, so it didn't attract much attention when it was first released and sales were very low.
However, after receiving high praise from North American outdoor media, it has become known in Japan as if it were imported back into Japan.
Over the years, more and more people have come to realise that the jacket's properties offer advantages for activities other than ice climbing.
The soft feel of the pullover, which doesn't have a zipper at the stomach area, was a perfect match for the rotational movement of snowboarding, which involves standing to the side and facing forward.
Snowboarders were the first to take notice, and they praised the Tsurugi Jacket for its lightweight, stress-free fit while still providing all the necessary shell specifications for backcountry skiing.
In particular, when twisting your upper body in a sideways position toward the fall line, the lack of a hard zipper on the abdomen reduces strain, resulting in greater riding freedom.
On the other hand, as the number of skiers using our products has increased, we have started receiving some unexpected complaints.
When the bag falls over, items stored in the inner mesh pocket fly out, so we wanted something done about that. In response to this request, we added a zipper to the inner side of the mesh pocket that year.
In response to user feedback, a zipper was added to the inner mesh pocket. On the initial model, it could be accessed by opening the right zipper on the front side or by opening the front zipper from the bottom.
This feature was not originally necessary for ice climbing, where you never get head down, but it was an improvement added in response to new needs.
Continuing to respond to these unexpected requests is also part of the never-ending process of "optimization."
The biggest change in the history of the "Tsurugi Jacket" was the update of the main material. The previous material was also jointly developed with a North American manufacturer, but the current "Täsmä" is also the result of years of collaboration with a domestic material manufacturer to find the ideal balance.
After more than three years of joint development with Toray, the next-generation waterproof and breathable material "Täsmä" was adopted as the main material in 2021. The Täsmä logo will be newly featured in the 2025-2026 Fall/Winter model.
No matter how good the ideas or pattern-making, products cannot evolve without innovation in materials.
In other words, no matter how perfect a product is, there is always room for improvement.
This is the latest model for Fall/Winter 2025-2026, with improved durability achieved by changing the fabric around the shoulders and waist that rubs against the backpack's shoulder straps and hip belt.
Not only materials, but also parts such as zippers and stoppers are constantly being updated. Of course, these specifications are not simply accepted at face value; they are first incorporated into clothing and thoroughly tested in the field before they become meaningful.
For example, if a material with greater stretchability than before were to be developed, it would be possible to improve the shape to be more streamlined without compromising comfort.
Alternatively, as gear such as helmets and boots become smaller and lighter, you may need to reconsider the sizing of your hood and bottom.
Products also continue to be "optimized" in response to the evolution of materials, parts, and peripheral gear.
Our guiding principles are always functionality, innovation, and practicality, the ideal clothing for use in harsh natural environments.
This concept has remained unchanged since the brand was founded and has served as the basis for our product development, while we have continued to optimize it over time.
This is the 15-year history of the "Tsurugi Jacket," and it is TETON BROS.'s development approach that will remain unchanged into the future.
Hirano Takayuki hit the natural lip near the summit of Mt. Hiuchigatake at the perfect time. He has been a rider since the brand was first launched and is a central guide in Hinoemata Village.