Klaus Obermeyer, founder of mountain apparel brand Obermeyer, celebrates his 97th birthday on December 2, 2016.
Born in 1919, Obermeyer grew up in the small Bavarian village of Oberstaufen, Germany. He came to the U.S. in 1947 and became a ski school instructor in Aspen, CO. This job led to the founding of Sport Obermeyer (the company’s original name). He told SGB that he first got the idea for the puffy down jacket after his mother sent him a comforter blanket sewn into a coat.
1950’s – Obermeyer modeling first down parka
Obermeyer still resides at his ranch on the Roaring Fork River. According to the company, he goes to work seven days a week, swims a half mile each day, skis all winter, plays tennis and practices Aikido.
The Obermeyer brand designs and manufactures mountain-inspired ski wear in Aspen, CO.
Photos courtesy Obermeyer
