A new frontier in high-altitude comfort and performance.

After conquering all fourteen of the world’s peaks above 8,000 meters — an achievement accomplished by only a handful of mountaineers — Mario Vielmo has descended from high altitude to take on a new challenge: a scientific and technological project that combines his extreme experience with cutting-edge research in technical apparel.

Vielmo recently visited the Comfort Lab of Politecnico di Torino, located at the Città Studi campus in Biella, to contribute to an experimental project carried out in collaboration with SCARPA, a world leader in the production of technical footwear for mountaineering, hiking, and outdoor sports, renowned for its craftsmanship and innovation.

The Comfort Lab is a centre of excellence dedicated to the study and development of advanced materials for technical clothing and sports equipment.

Over the years, the laboratory has strengthened its strategic role through a solid and ongoing collaboration with Città Studi. This partnership was renewed in 2024 with an updated agreement to continue joint research activities and promote high-impact scientific initiatives in the field of functional materials for sports, technical apparel, and outdoor applications.