In the beginning there were moccasins. This type of shoe – crepe sole, rounded last and the typical seam on the vamp – was the company founder Günter Bauer’s response to the first crisis in the German shoe industry. That was in the early 1960s; the Lugina shoe factory had only just opened. The company started its success story with moccasins for women, men and children and served the then increasing demand for comfortable, casual shoes. Children’s shoes were discontinued after a while. The company found its place in the market with comfortable, contemporary women’s and men’s shoes.
In 1986, Willehad Bauer, the second generation, took over the baton at Lugina. The eldest son had to take on full responsibility at the age of 31 after his father died. The young man decided to grow with Waldläufer. And he consistently put this plan into practice. His motto: step on the gas. Because braking is easier than pushing.
With a price/performance ratio that is in line with the market and a focus on comfort, Waldläufer now has a firm place in retail product ranges, not just in Germany but worldwide. Enthusiastic customers include consumers in Canada, Ecuador, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.
The third generation is now at the helm of the company. Günther Bauer, son of the senior boss, has taken on the task of continuing the Lugina shoe factory’s success story with comfortable, sporty shoes that are in no way inferior to fashionable products.
In addition to the high-quality features of Waldläufer shoes, it was also important to the schuhkurier jury that the brand skilfully picks up on trends without sacrificing proven comfort. The jury also specifically highlighted loyalty to specialist retailers.