Lowa

Since 1923, Lowa has earned its reputation for creating high-quality boots and shoes. They combine outstanding quality and fit through innovative design and proprietary technology. A Bavarian shoemaker named Lorenz Wagner founded Lowa and began making sturdy work boots for his neighbors in the small village of Jetzendorf. Together with his brothers, they helped support the company along with their side business, the Wagner Orchestra.

In 1930, the company outgrew its shoemaker's shop, and the first factory opened. Here, the foundation for success was laid as they developed alpine boots for the mountain infantry. During the war, they were forced to produce shoes for the military, especially for the mountain infantry.

In 1946, production of consumer shoes could resume, and the company invested heavily in both new machinery and personnel.

A new generation takes over

Lorenz Wagner passed away in 1953. Lorenz's daughter Berti saved the company together with her husband Sepp Lederer. For the rest of the decade, Lowa expanded its product range and also began sponsoring mountain expeditions. Jim Whittaker, the first American to climb Everest, did so in a pair of Lowa mountaineering boots!

In 1970, Lowa pioneered breakthroughs in manufacturing processes such as PU injection molding and product innovations like the first vulcanized rubber soles.

In its 50th year, Lowa shocked the ski boot industry with the "Air" model, which used an air-cushioned inner boot. This completely changed how ski boots fit the foot, and Lowa became #1.

In the 1980s, they introduced the Trekker, which set a new standard for fit and performance in hiking boots. In 1988, Sepp Lederer handed over the reins of the company to his son Stefan.

In the 2000s, Lowa reached a huge milestone, selling over 1 million pairs of boots in one year. In 2003, the company celebrated its 80th anniversary. The company had become the largest employer in the Jetzendorf area, with over 250 employees at its headquarters. In 2010, they passed the next milestone, selling over 2 million pairs a year.

In 2015, the car park in Jetzendorf was covered with a large-scale photovoltaic system, which supplies approximately 16% of the company's annual power. The remaining energy demand is powered by 100% green hydropower.

Lowa is today the leading brand in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. They currently sell over 3 million pairs a year!