K-Way, lightweight designer rain jackets.
Gaining legendary status courtesy of its famous windcheater, K-Way has been putting its name to lines of weatherproof clothing since the middle of the 1960's. Today, the brand proposes jackets providing faultless technical performance, loved as much for their modern design as for their high-quality finishings. As well as parkas and reversible padded jackets, the French label has added to its offering collections of sportswear and beachwear, together with a range of bags and accessories.
A now-iconic windcheater.
Behind the well-known windcheater that came into existence in 1965, there lies one man - Léon-Claude Duhamel. Originally from the north of France, this industrialist was seeking to find a colourful, lightweight alternative to replace rainwear which had always been heavy and uncomfortable. It was then that he perfected the first version of the K-Way, a breathable nylon jacket, with heat-welded seams, that could be folded away in a banana-shaped pouch. One year later, this piece, initially called "En-cas" (just in case - of rain) was renamed K-Way, an allusion to American fashion. Iconic garment in the 70's, the K-Way is practical and instantly recognisable. The Claude and Léon models in particular are revisited with each new season, and have been ever since the brand's creation. In 2004, the French company was bought by the Italian group BasicNet. A real transformation was to follow. The cuts were updated, technical performance was improved and new breathable materials were adopted, K-Way jackets became high-end desirables.
Since the brand’s beginnings, its range has expanded with the addition of reversible padded jackets, parkas, lines of sportswear and beachwear, and also baggage. Amongst the iconic K-Way bags, we will remember the bowling bag, with its sporty, practical design. And children won't be left disappointed, because they too have their own collections of outdoor clothing and accessories.
When design and technical performance meet.
The best-known couturiers and fashion designers are finding inspiration in K-Way rain jackets, must-have items of fashion. In 2011, Marc Jacobs injected a breath of fresh air into the brand when he revisited the well-known Claude model creating a waterproofed cotton version which came in grey hues. K-Way has also been involved in several collaborations with ready-to-wear brands. A.P.C., Colette, L’Éclaireur and Maje are amongst those who have fallen for the technical design of K-Way outdoor clothes. Produced in partnership with Parisian brand Maje, the capsule collection of leopard print rainwear has made a big impression.
Over the years, the brand has successfully reinvented itself by updating the style of its rain jackets. Clothing formerly known only for being practical and functional, K-Way creations now set themselves apart for their design and immaculate finishings, while continuing to offer optimal protection against inclement weather. Amongst the iconic pieces, to mention a few: