We are so excited to announce that our longtime friends at Black Diamond are returning as the 2023 Title Sponsor to the Michigan Ice Fest!  Not only do they make incredible climbing gear and clothing, they were one of the first climbing manufacturers to come to our event back in the days where there were only a handful of participants at the event. Because of their commitment to the event we are able to offer Ice Fest participants a much greater experience and for that we will be forever grateful.

This year above and beyond their Title Sponsorship, they are helping to support our diversity and inclusion projects, sending amazing athletes, and this year both Aaron Mulkey & Brian Block will be doing presentations!

During the fest be sure to stop by their booth and thank them for their continued support of Midwest Ice Climbers!

Black Diamond Equipment’s history dates back to 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. 

Black Diamond was founded on December 1, 1989, when the assets of Chouinard Equipment Ltd. were purchased by a group of former company employees led by (now former CEO) Peter Metcalf, and a few outside investors. They continue to bring innovative climbing gear and apparel to the market, many of which will be on display at their booth at the Michigan Ice Fest headquarters.