雲
Kumo
Kumo (雲), the Japanese word for cloud reflects the jacket's connection to lightness, adaptability, and comfort, much like the soft, enveloping nature of a cloud.
We present to you, Kumo.
Kumo is Technicolor’s inaugural project, born in 2023, from a creative drive to reimagine the traditional lifestyle hoodie. By addressing common limitations—such as fit, hood functionality, and sleeve length—Kumo merges refined design with performance-driven innovation. Drawing from tactical garment principles, we developed a tailored pattern that emphasizes mobility and a tactical fit. The result is a hoodie that incorporates industry-leading materials and thoughtful features.
The Kumo hoodie features a unique 3-panel design with a scuba-style hood engineered for versatility. When in use, the hood fits snugly, providing warmth and protection. When not deployed, its structured design allows it to rest naturally around the neck as a built-in buff. This dual functionality combines aesthetic simplicity with practical utility, ensuring seamless transitions between urban and outdoor environments.
Crafted with purpose, Kumo balances warmth, breathability, and lightweight comfort. The main body consists of 200 GSM microgrid fleece, offering an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and dynamic stretch for unrestricted movement. Strategically placed side panels of 120 GSM silk-weight jersey knit facilitate airflow in areas prone to heat buildup. Rooted in the principles of cottage core and sustainability, each Kumo is crafted by local retired seamstresses, blending timeless craftsmanship with modern design and a commitment to ethical production.
Early Stage Prototype Testing
“The Hole” Adelaide.
During the initial stages of prototype testing, we took our peach-colored design to "The Hole" in Adelaide for field evaluation. We identified bouldering as an excellent litmus test for mobility, given the diverse range of angles and stretches required by the activity. The prototype was worn as a base layer, anticipating that the physical exertion would naturally generate heat.
The design incorporated side panels made from a lighter GSM jersey knit, strategically placed to promote ventilation through the underarm areas. This feature effectively balanced breathability with warmth, ensuring the garment remained comfortable and free from stuffiness, even during the climb. Additionally, the micro-grid fleece's 4-way stretch properties allowed for unrestricted movement, performing exceptionally well in dynamic conditions.
Mount Aka (赤岳, Aka-dake)
In June 2024, we had the privilege of venturing to Mount Aka, a prominent peak situated on the border of Chino and Hara in Nagano, as well as Hokuto in Yamanashi, Japan. As the tallest mountain in the Yatsugatake range, it presented an ideal setting for testing one of our early prototypes—a sleek, clean white design.
While we didn’t utilize the prototype under the forest canopy during the ascent, it proved invaluable upon reaching the exposed mountain ridges, where the wind picked up significantly. The Kumo performed exceptionally well, offering lightweight insulation that was perfectly suited to temperatures ranging between 12–20°C. Its fit allowed for unrestricted movement, and the scuba-style hood was particularly effective, shielding the chin and sides of the head from the wind. Acting as a secondary beanie without unnecessary bulk, it added a layer of comfort and functionality that made a noticeable difference in the conditions.