Alpina
Slovenia
Alpina is a Slovenian footwear maker from Žiri, formed in 1947 when several private shoemaking workshops merged. It is known for athletic and winter sports footwear and also makes everyday shoes.
| Origin | Žiri, Slovenia |
|---|---|
| Formed | 1947, renamed Alpina in 1951 |
| Legal form | Joint-stock company |
| Winter sports unit | Alpina Sports (subsidiary) |
What is Alpina?
Alpina is a footwear company from Žiri in Slovenia. Wikipedia reports that it was formed in 1947 through a merger of several private shoemaking workshops, initially under the name Žiri Shoe Factory, and was renamed Alpina in 1951.
Products and positioning
The company makes athletic footwear and winter sports footwear, including snow boots and cross-country boots, with winter sports products handled through its subsidiary Alpina Sports. Its range also includes everyday styles such as oxfords, derbies, platforms, ballet shoes and sandals. It supplies several national cross-country and biathlon teams.
Distribution
Most production is sold abroad under the Alpina brand. Export markets named include the United States, Croatia, Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria and Poland. The company has also expanded its own retail stores, mostly in South East Europe.
Why it matters
Alpina is a long-standing example of the shoemaking cluster around Žiri and an export-oriented Slovenian footwear brand. It operates as a joint-stock company.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Alpina from?
Alpina is from Žiri, Slovenia, where several private shoemaking workshops merged in 1947.
What does Alpina make?
Alpina makes athletic and winter sports footwear, including cross-country boots, as well as everyday shoes.