What if this summer, the French swapped the beach for the mountains?

In August 2026, mountaineering recorded a +642% increase in popularity year-on-year, according to Yourban Intelligence data.

An impressive rise that makes this activity one of the sports trends to watch. But behind the desire to conquer new heights lies an entire market: footwear, technical clothing, carabiners, and more.

And of course, a new sporting activity also means new equipment to buy.

So, how can mountaineering inspire new commercial opportunities?

What Is Mountaineering?

Off to the mountains! Mountaineering is a sporting activity that involves climbing mountains and exploring high-altitude environments, generally in more technical conditions than a traditional hike.

Depending on the route, mountaineers may hike, climb rock faces, or make their way across snow and ice.

It is therefore an activity that requires proper preparation and specific equipment to explore the mountains safely.

What Equipment Do You Need to Start Mountaineering?

Mountaineering is a particularly technical activity that requires equipment suited to the sport and the conditions encountered.

Products commonly associated with mountaineering include:

• mountaineering boots;
• technical and thermal clothing;
• crampons;
• ice axes;
• helmets;
• harnesses;
• ropes and carabiners;
• technical backpacks;
• sunglasses and protective accessories.

Quite a long list, making mountaineering an interesting activity to observe from a sports consumption perspective as well.

Because behind the growth of a sport, there may also be growing demand for its entire ecosystem.

Which Brands Offer Mountaineering Equipment?

When it comes to gearing up, several players currently share the market.

Major multisport retailers provide an accessible way to discover the activity and explore a wide range of equipment. Mountain specialists, meanwhile, offer more technical products aimed at mountaineers looking for specific gear.

Alongside these retailers, numerous brands specialize in outdoor and mountain equipment.

• Decathlon
• Au Vieux Campeur
• Millet
• The North Face
• Patagonia

Together, these brands contribute to a commercial ecosystem that extends far beyond mountaineering itself.

How Can Shopping Centres Introduce Visitors to Mountaineering?

No need to be at the foot of Mont Blanc to discover mountaineering!

This trend can also inspire new experiences in shopping centres: temporary climbing walls, introductory sessions, equipment testing, or pop-up stores dedicated to the outdoor market.

Specialist retailers can complement the experience with dedicated corners featuring technical clothing, footwear, and accessories.

A way to turn a sports trend into entertainment, footfall, and commercial opportunities.

Mountaineering: A Trend to Watch!

With a +642% increase in popularity year-on-year, mountaineering shows how a sports trend can also create new opportunities for retail: equipment, specialist brands, pop-up stores, and new experiences in shopping centres.

And mountaineering is far from the only sport attracting attention! Discover the Top 5 most popular sports in France in May 2026.

Would you like to discover other trends that could inspire your next commercial decisions? Contact us to find out more.