The ICAR family welcomes EXPED

We are delighted to launch a new partnership with ICAR, a globally recognized leader in alpine rescue. Our organizations share the same core values — technical excellence, performance, and reliability in mountain environments — laying a solid groundwork for genuine collaboration. Together, we are well positioned to unlock new value and deliver industry-leading product solutions.

Founded in Switzerland back in 1983, Exped started as a distributor for premium outdoor brands and has since evolved into one of the most innovative hardgoods specialists in the outdoor segment, particularly in sleep systems (sleeping pads, tents, and sleeping bags). Over more than 20 years, we have also built a strong reputation for developing alpine backpacks, especially in the high-technical segment of mountaineering, ski touring, and alpine climbing. Our backpacks are built by outdoor people, for outdoor people, combining minimalist, purist design with the durability and weatherproofing demanded by the most challenging alpine environments.

Our alpine backpack range is often defined by waterproof, seam-taped or welded constructions using highly abrasion- and tear-resistant materials such as UHMWPE ripstop or high-tenacity nylon fabrics. Roll-top closures, sealed seams, and weatherproof zippers keep gear reliably protected from rain, snow, and humidity, while thoughtful features ensure the packs perform where it matters most: on technical terrain, in changing weather, and under heavy loads.

For several years now, we have equipped mountain rescue organizations across southern Germany and Austria, as well as Air Glaciers in Switzerland, with our waterproof alpine backpacks. We are especially proud of our partnership with Alpine Rettung Schweiz, who rely on our packs for their demanding rescue operations. These collaborations with rescue professionals continuously inform our product development, helping us refine our packs for real-world use in the most demanding rescue and alpine conditions.

We look forward to bringing this experience and technical know-how into our partnership with ICAR and its members, and to supporting alpine rescue organizations worldwide with equipment they can rely on.

For any questions: Marc Raillard, Head of Product Development

Email: marc.raillard@exped.com

Links

Exped Website