When you’re exploring beyond the piste, confidence matters. Modern ski wear is designed not only for performance and protection, but also for peace of mind.
If you’ve ever noticed the RECCO® label inside your outerwear and wondered what it means, here’s everything you need to know about this discreet yet powerful mountain safety technology.
A Brief History of RECCO®
RECCO® technology was developed in Sweden in the 1980s after a tragic avalanche highlighted the need for faster rescue solutions. The idea was simple but revolutionary: integrate a small, lightweight reflector into ski clothing and equipment to help rescuers locate missing people more efficiently.
Today, RECCO® has become a globally recognised rescue system, used in mountain regions around the world and integrated into premium ski jackets, salopettes, helmets and boots.
What Does a RECCO® label Mean?
If you see RECCO® mentioned on your jacket, it means a small passive reflector is built into the garment.
The reflector doesn’t require batteries, charging, or activation. It’s always on.
It’s designed to work with professional rescue detectors, helping organised search teams locate individuals in the event of an avalanche or if someone becomes lost in remote terrain.
It’s not a tracking device, it’s a rescue reflector.
How Does a RECCO® Work?
A common question is: how does a RECCO® work?
The system has two parts:
The reflector – integrated into clothing or gear.
The detector – used by professional rescue teams.
When rescuers scan an area with a RECCO® detector, it sends out a directional radar signal. If that signal hits a RECCO® reflector, it bounces back to the detector, guiding rescuers toward the person’s location.
The reflector requires no power source and adds no bulk to your ski wear. It’s a lightweight addition that can significantly support organised rescue efforts.
How RECCO® Technology Helps Save Lives
In avalanche or search situations, time is critical. RECCO® technology allows rescue teams to:
Cover large search areas quickly
Pinpoint buried or missing individuals
Conduct systematic sweeps using helicopter or handheld detectors
It’s important to note that RECCO® does not replace an avalanche transceiver for backcountry travel. Instead, it acts as an additional layer of safety that is particularly valuable for resort skiers and off-piste adventurers.
For modern ski wear, integrating RECCO® reflects a broader commitment to responsible mountain exploration: performance, style, and safety working together.
Who Uses RECCO®?
RECCO® detectors are used by:
Professional mountain rescue teams
Ski patrol units
Search and rescue organisations worldwide
Helicopter rescue services in alpine regions
The system is now deployed in hundreds of ski resorts and mountain areas globally.
Why RECCO® Matters in Modern Ski Wear
Today's technical ski jackets and outerwear offer more than just warmth and waterproofing. With built-in RECCO® reflectors, skiers gain an additional layer of safety without compromising on comfort or style.
Enhanced Safety: RECCO® reflectors are built into technical ski jackets and outerwear, providing an extra layer of reassurance on the mountain.
No Impact on Comfort: The reflectors are discreet, ensuring they don’t affect the fit, comfort, or silhouette of the garment.
Perfect for Performance & Preparedness: This innovation is ideal for skiers who prioritize both high performance and safety.
Confidence on the Mountain: With RECCO®, skiers can enjoy their day on the snow knowing they have added safety measures in place.
Incorporating RECCO® technology into your gear provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time on the slopes.
