Salewa

Passion for mountain sports

SALEWA stands for the passion for alpinism and the unparalleled adventure of the mountains. Founded in 1935 as SAttler- und LEder WAren (saddler and leather goods), or SALEWA for short, the Munich-based company of Josef Liebhart initially sold mainly camera bags. Leather footballs and motorcycle tank bags were also part of the range. In the 1940s, ski poles made of hazelnut wood were added. The management-led family business is now firmly rooted in the South Tyrolean Dolomites. At the company headquarters in Bolzano, technical equipment is created that combines traditional materials with progressive design – always under high environmental and social standards and with a deep awareness of regionality, quality and value.

Alpine Hemp Technology

Climbing challenges body and mind. It strengthens the muscles, promotes concentration and coordination, and requires mental strength at the same time. This resilience is reflected in hemp, which SALEWA has used since 2017 in the Alpine Hemp climbing collection.

The choice of hemp is based on its unique properties: the material is soft, elastic, breathable, thermoregulating and offers high wearing comfort. It is more hard-wearing and breathable than cotton, absorbs moisture without feeling damp, protects against UV radiation and has antibacterial properties.

Alpine Hemp is an innovative hybrid fabric developed in close collaboration with suppliers. Special weaving and knitting techniques combined with recycled polyester and elastane create a particularly abrasion-resistant and elastic material – perfect for the demands of climbing. The collection includes versatile garments that, depending on need, provide cooling, warming or protective effects, supporting climbers through every challenge.

Tirolwool® Celliant®

Especially in autumn and winter, short breaks during strenuous activities in the mountains are critical for individual temperature regulation. In fast-paced mountain sports, phases of intense movement alternate with rest breaks. A cold, damp feeling caused by heavy perspiration carries the risk of rapid cooling.

For SALEWA, the right balance between insulation performance and breathability is therefore essential. Wool keeps mountain athletes warm, even when wet, and regulates body heat naturally. Celliant® is a patented blend of 13 thermo-reactive minerals integrated into recycled polyester fibres. This technology has the unique ability to convert body heat into infrared light, store it, and return it to the body over an extended period. The result: improved blood circulation and faster recovery – a decisive advantage in the mountains.

Sustainability

SALEWA aims to offer high-quality, durable mountain sports products while keeping its ecological footprint as small as possible. The company headquarters in Bolzano was the first building in Italy to receive the KlimaHaus Work&Life certification and generates more electricity through its own solar roof than the building itself requires.

Sustainability is a central theme for the South Tyrolean Oberalp Group, which also includes brands such as Dynafit and Wild Country.

These factors make SALEWA a brand that not only develops highly functional products, but also takes ecological responsibility seriously.

For the brand, product longevity is a matter of honour. Mountaineers should be able to use their gear for years – ideally a lifetime. That's why SALEWA offers a repair service using original spare parts, so products stay in use longer instead of being discarded prematurely.

Animal welfare is also a high priority: SALEWA is committed to strict animal welfare regulations for down sourcing and follows the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) to ensure ethical production.

(Photos: Salewa)