When Hans Wagner started making shoes and boots in 1921, a careful and conscientious approach to materials and ensuring their high quality was absolutely essential. Not necessarily for environmental concerns. But one thing was clear: you could only be successful as a craftsman if you created a product that was durable and reliable.
Hans Wagner's rapid success was based on his reputation for making high-quality mountain boots with an elaborate construction. This meant that the boots could be resoled if the soles were worn. The uppers could be reused. And people got more for their money. To this day, this approach is still characteristic of HANWAG.
Most of our boots are cemented or double-stitched. The processes are complex and correspondingly more expensive than conventional methods. But it is only with these types of construction that it’s possible to resole them – and therefore create lasting products. In 2020, 15,635 pairs of HANWAG boots were resoled. The most sustainable product is the one we already have – and will have for a long time to come.
Of course, we have always been very selective in selecting our raw materials as well. It's about achieving the best quality and ensuring the production is as local as possible environmentally friendly. In this way, we not only create the highest quality, most durable footwear, but also save resources and protect the environment. For us, this isn’t some new strategic idea, it has simply always made sense for the work we do.
In order to keep transport routes short and CO2 emissions low, we produce in our own manufacturing facilities and with local companies working exclusively for HANWAG. All stages in the process – from research and development, raw material production and supply, to manufacturing – take place within Europe.
This presents numerous opportunities to further develop our tradition of sustainability in a contemporary and forward-looking way, with new technologies and solutions. The aim is not only to make mountain, trekking and hiking boots even better. But also to express our love for nature by leaving it in good condition for generations to come.
