Danner | Crafting values
Once in a while one comes across a product that drives pride, scrambles with emotions. It could just be that that something represents way more than just a piece, symbolizes feelings that stretch way beyond matter.
Danner boots is a brand that does just that. From the process of fabrication to the very special bond each and every individual establishes with his own pair, Danner entails a meaning.
The Stumptown collection is one of Danner’s most recent ventures. It crosses over the lumber, keeps the strength in and calls upon to a whole crowd drifting the horizon in search of a piece that they can relate to.
We did a brief word exchange with Matt Schneider, Danner’s International Sales Manager, about Stumptown, the Asian market, and the brand’s core values.
Walk on.
Danner has a history of 80 years, starting as a brand that fabricated boots for loggers. How did you manage those values and references with the modern twist of the Stumptown collection?
Our brand has the mantra of “Crafting Higher Standards” and we try to do this in every product line. We have done this by keeping consistent with Vibram outsoles as well as GoreTex waterproof liner in addition we have added Horween leathers to our products.
What was the single most important inspiration for the creation of the Stumptown collection?
We recognized the market wanted authentic, premium product and we had a unique story to share. The Stumptown line celebrates the commitment craftsmanship that Danner has carried for over 80 years and connects it back to our long history creating product here in Portland, Oregon.
Just how important is the Japanese market in terms of your creative process? Do you produce specific pieces to sell there, or do you tend to test all your “alternative” products in Japan before moving on to other markets?
Japan was the key contributor at the start however the rest of Asia and Europe are gaining on their influence. We have some product that we only make for Japan. The goal in the future is not to have Japan specific product, but products for all nations.
How did the market react to the collection? Speaking not only of sales, but also about your fans, customers.
We had a great reaction to the collection. It was fantastic to see how stores wanted to hear the story of the brand and contribute on what they think would help the line. This really showed us how many fans we had that we never knew about.
What can we expect for the upcoming seasons? Are there to be even more collections complementing the core Danner offer?
We are working on several new product offerings. The key take away is to remember that Danner isn’t just a Hiking brand it has a strong Work and Uniform history.
Enjoy some looks of the Stumptown collection in the gallery below.
Visit Danner’s official website.
