Haglöfs: A Legacy of Outdoor Innovation and Sustainability

Haglöfs, a Swedish brand founded in 1914 and long-standing partner brand of ours, has established itself as a leading name in the outdoor apparel and equipment industry. With a rich heritage, a focus on innovation, and a commitment to sustainability, Haglöfs has become synonymous with high-quality outdoor gear for adventurers, climbers, hikers, and athletes around the world.

The Origins of Haglöfs

Haglöfs began as a small company founded by Wiktor Haglöf, a schoolteacher from the village of Torsång in Sweden. Initially, Wiktor created hand-sewn backpacks and tents, designed specifically for the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. His goal was simple but ambitious: to create durable, functional, and practical gear for the growing number of people venturing into nature.

Haglöfs’ first significant breakthrough came in 1917 when Wiktor developed a backpack that was both lightweight and durable. This innovation quickly gained popularity, establishing the brand as a go-to name for outdoor equipment in Sweden. As outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and skiing continued to grow in popularity, Haglöfs expanded its product offerings, eventually including jackets, sleeping bags, and other outdoor essentials.

Growth and Global Expansion

Throughout the 20th century, Haglöfs’ reputation for producing high-quality outdoor gear spread beyond Sweden’s borders. The brand’s commitment to functional design and durable materials won over outdoor enthusiasts and athletes across Europe and North America.

In the 1990s, Haglöfs shifted its focus toward technical outdoor apparel, particularly designed for extreme conditions. The company embraced cutting-edge materials like GORE-TEX® and developed specialised products for mountaineering, skiing, and trekking. This evolution solidified Haglöfs’ position as a global leader in the outdoor industry.

Commitment to Sustainability

One of Haglöfs’ defining values is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. As the brand’s influence grew, so did its responsibility to the environment. Over the years, Haglöfs has taken significant strides toward reducing its environmental impact and making its production process more sustainable.

The brand was an early adopter of environmentally friendly practices, such as using recycled materials in its products and adopting responsible sourcing practices. Its efforts include a commitment to Fair Wear certification, ensuring ethical working conditions in its supply chain, and using eco-friendly materials like bluesign® approved fabrics and PFC-free water repellents. Haglöfs also focuses on extending the lifespan of its products by designing items that are built to last, thus reducing waste.

Furthermore, Haglöfs introduced the “Sustainability Journal,” an initiative where the company regularly reports on its environmental and social impacts. This transparency showcases Haglöfs’ dedication to improving sustainability across its entire product lifecycle.

Innovation & Technological Advancements

Haglöfs is renowned for its technical innovation, consistently introducing products that push the boundaries of design and performance. The brand has collaborated with industry leaders like GORE-TEX® and Polartec® to create high-performance outdoor gear that meets the needs of extreme athletes and adventurers.

Some of Haglöfs’ standout products include:

L.I.M. Series: The L.I.M. (Less Is More) series is known for being ultra-lightweight while maintaining exceptional durability and weather resistance. These products are designed for minimalist adventurers who require high performance without the burden of heavy gear.
Apex Flex Jackets: These jackets are designed for versatility and comfort, incorporating waterproof, breathable, and windproof technology for a range of outdoor conditions.
V-Series Footwear: Haglöfs has also made strides in footwear, offering boots and shoes designed for everything from alpine climbing to trail running. The V-Series features cutting-edge soles and materials that offer maximum traction and comfort.
Recycled Fabrics: The brand uses sustainable materials across a wide range of products, such as recycled polyester and nylon, and focuses on making its gear as eco-friendly as possible.

Collaboration & Partnerships

In addition to its own product innovations, Haglöfs has formed various partnerships with like-minded organisations, focusing on innovation and sustainability. One notable example is the brand’s collaboration with the Swedish alpine climbing team. By developing specialised gear for these athletes, Haglöfs continues to refine its technical products, pushing the limits of what’s possible in outdoor gear.

Haglöfs also partners with other sustainability-driven brands, sharing knowledge and resources to reduce their collective environmental footprints. This focus on collaborative efforts has helped reinforce the brand’s position as a leader in responsible production and sustainable outdoor practices.

Haglöfs’ evolution from a small Swedish backpack manufacturer to a global leader in outdoor gear is a testament to its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. As the brand continues to lead the charge in environmentally responsible design and high-performance outdoor gear, it remains an essential name for adventurers who value both functionality and environmental stewardship.

For over a century, Haglöfs has proven that when it comes to exploring the great outdoors, you can trust that their gear will be up to the challenge, without compromising on the planet’s future.

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