Salewa

Overview

Salewa is an international manufacturer of mountain sports equipment headquartered in the Dolomites of South Tyrol. The company specializes in four product categories: Apparel, Footwear, Equipment, and Technical Hardware, serving ambitious alpinists and mountain enthusiasts across approximately 30 countries through roughly 2,500 retail partners worldwide. Known for combining traditional materials with progressive design, Salewa positions itself as a technical innovator rooted in regional identity and environmental responsibility.

History

Founded in 1935 by Josef Liebhart in Munich as a saddlery and leather goods company (Sa-Le-Wa), Salewa evolved into a mountain sports equipment manufacturer. The company pioneered several iconic products including the first adjustable twelve-point crampons, tubular ice screws, the Andes backpack, and the Helium helmet. In the 1950s, Salewa created its first backpack for an Andean expedition, marking its transition to alpine equipment. The company relocated from Munich to Bolzano in the Dolomites and is now part of the Oberalp Group, maintaining its management-led, family-owned heritage while operating as a world leader in alpine products.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Salewa manufactures products in South Tyrol with emphasis on regional production and local sourcing where possible. The company combines in-house development with selective outsourcing, maintaining quality control through its Dolomites-based headquarters. Production incorporates local materials, including South Tyrolean wool in research and product development.

Notable Products

• Andes Backpack - Legendary expedition pack developed in the 1950s for Andean expeditions, establishing the brand's reputation for alpine equipment
• Helium Helmet - Pioneering climbing helmet design combining safety with lightweight construction
• Adjustable Twelve-Point Crampons - First crampons with adjustable points, revolutionizing mountaineering equipment
• Tubular Ice Screw - Innovative ice climbing protection tool that became an industry standard
• 90th Anniversary Collection - Modern collection blending retro heritage designs with contemporary functionality and sustainable materials

Reputation

Salewa is respected among alpine professionals and serious mountaineers for technical innovation and product durability rooted in genuine mountain heritage. The brand maintains credibility through its commitment to environmental and social standards, regional identity, and quality craftsmanship. While positioned as premium rather than budget-oriented, the brand appeals to dedicated alpinists who value heritage and functionality over mass-market appeal. Some consumers note that pricing reflects the specialized nature of the products rather than mainstream outdoor recreation.