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Every year, an average of 150 to 200 people lose their lives in avalanches around the world. This number is just the tip of the iceberg when considering all accidents related to outdoor activities—from lost hikers to unfortunate falls in remote terrain. While mountains are breathtaking and magical, they are also unforgiving. When an avalanche occurs, time becomes the greatest enemy. Statistics are clear: within the first 18 minutes after burial, the survival rate is around 90%. After this critical window, the chances rapidly drop, and after 30 minutes, only one-third of victims survive. That’s why rescue speed is absolutely crucial.
How RECCO Was Born and Who Was Behind It
The story of RECCO began in 1973 with a tragedy. Swedish engineer Magnus Granhed lost a close friend in an avalanche. It wasn’t just grief that drove him to create something revolutionary—it was the desire to make the mountain world safer, to prevent such tragedies or at least minimize their consequences. Years of research, development, and testing followed, eventually leading to the creation of the RECCO system—a simple yet ingenious technological solution that has since saved hundreds of lives worldwide.
RECCO technology was first introduced in the 1980s in response to the need for rapid avalanche victim localization. Today, the system is used in over 28 countries and is supported by more than 900 rescue organizations, ski resorts, and mountain centers. Moreover, over 150 outdoor brands, including DIRECT ALPINE, integrate RECCO into their equipment, making it a discreet but vital part of everyday life for mountaineers, skiers, and hikers.
How RECCO Works
The RECCO system is based on a simple and reliable radar principle. It consists of two core components: a passive reflector and an active detector.
1. Reflector – This small, lightweight component, easily integrated into outdoor clothing, requires no battery or maintenance. It’s essentially a miniature radar transponder that bounces back signals emitted by the detector. The reflector has a virtually unlimited lifespan unless mechanically damaged, making it perfect for long-term use.
2. Detector – Used by rescuers to locate reflectors. It emits radar signals, which are bounced back by the reflector. The detector has a range of up to 80 meters through air and 20 meters through compacted snow. Even more impressive is the helicopter-mounted RECCO SAR detector, capable of scanning an area of up to 1 km² in just six minutes.
While RECCO does not replace traditional avalanche gear like transceivers, probes, or shovels, it significantly increases the chances of fast localization and rescue. Combining multiple rescue tools is always the key to success.
DIRECT ALPINE and RECCO: Safety as Standard
At DIRECT ALPINE, we believe that safety should be an integral part of every outdoor adventure. That’s why we decided to integrate RECCO technology into our premium Mountain Top Series products. This step is sure to be appreciated by anyone who values high-quality gear and a strong focus on safety.
DIRECT ALPINE Products with RECCO Reflector:
• GUIDE / GUIDE LADY (women's hardshell jacket): This stylish and durable jacket for mountain adventures includes a RECCO reflector discreetly integrated into the left sleeve.
• EIGER / EIGER LADY (waterproof pants): Built to endure harsh alpine conditions, these pants feature RECCO technology for added protection. The reflector is subtly placed on the back of the left leg, ready for any emergency.
• DEAMON (men’s waterproof jacket): A hardshell jacket that stands for durability in extreme conditions. The RECCO reflector is discreetly integrated into the left sleeve, ensuring you're always prepared for the unexpected.
DEAMON PANTS (men's waterproof pants): These robust men’s pants feature the RECCO reflector on the back of the left leg.
We believe that combining quality, innovation, and safety is key to enjoying the mountains to the fullest—while minimizing risks.
RECCO Facts & Trivia
• Did you know the RECCO SAR detector can scan dense forests and steep mountain valleys? This makes it an invaluable tool not only for avalanche rescues but also for locating lost hikers.
• The RECCO reflector requires no battery or charging and has an almost endless lifespan—making it the ideal safety add-on.
• A quote from founder Magnus Granhed: “It’s great to live off your own idea, but nothing compares to the moment when someone tells you they’re alive because of it.” This perfectly captures the essence of the RECCO technology.
Outdoor adventures are beautiful—but they can also be dangerous. The RECCO system is your invisible guardian that can save your life. With DIRECT ALPINE, you gain the confidence to be prepared for anything—whether it's about style, durability, or safety. So next time you head to the mountains, don’t forget the right gear with RECCO technology. It could save your life.
Source:https://recco.com/