Black Diamond Equipment's history dates from the late 1950s when climber Yvon Chouinard began hand-forging pitons and selling them from the trunk of his car in Yosemite Valley. Chouinard's pitons quickly gained a reputation for quality, and Chouinard Equipment was born soon after in Ventura, California. Over the years of commitment to excellence, the company has grown and now has offices on three continents, and it offers equipment and apparel not just for climbers and skiers, but for all your hiking and camping needs as well. The Black Diamond team is actively involved in the sports they represent, and because of this, they remain focused on constantly refining, improving, and dreaming up new and better gear.