The story begins in 1886, when brothers Carl August and Anton Seibel founded one of Germany’s very first shoe factories in Hauenstein, a small village that would later become the heart of German shoemaking. From its inception, Josef Seibel was defined by the hands that shaped its shoes, skilled artisans who transformed leather and thread into durable, elegant footwear.

What set the brand apart was not just the use of quality materials or functional design, but the human touch behind every stitch. Even today, that philosophy remains at the core of Josef Seibel’s identity: shoes made with care, by people, for people.

After Carl August’s passing in 1911, his son Josef Seibel took over the company and guided it through the turbulent years of two world wars. These were times when many shoemakers closed their doors, yet Josef Seibel endured. With determination and resourcefulness, the company adapted, sourcing materials creatively and maintaining its focus on comfort and quality.

The post-war era brought what became known as Germany’s Wirtschaftswunder, the economic miracle. This period of reconstruction fueled growth, and under Josef Seibel’s leadership, the brand modernised its production methods while staying true to its tradition of hand-sewn craftsmanship.

By the 1970s, Josef Seibel had expanded far beyond its German roots. Export markets grew rapidly, with shoes finding loyal customers across Europe, North America, and later Australia. Despite globalisation and competition that forced many German shoemakers to close, Josef Seibel survived by embracing innovation. The company introduced fresh ideas, lighter materials, and new designs that balanced tradition with modern appeal.

In particular, sourcing innovative leathers from Italy allowed Josef Seibel to maintain premium quality while adapting to fashion’s changing landscape. The strategy ensured the brand not only survived but thrived, even in challenging times.

Now led by the fourth generation of the Seibel family, the company continues to operate from its historic headquarters in Hauenstein. While Josef Seibel has established production sites beyond Germany, its focus remains firmly in Europe, where craftsmanship and quality remain central to the brand’s identity.

Josef Seibel is now beloved in markets worldwide, from Canada and the United States to the Middle East and Oceania. This international success reflects the universal appeal of shoes that combine timeless European style with all-day comfort.

What makes Josef Seibel shoes so enduring? At the heart of the brand is an understanding that a good shoe must serve people in their everyday lives. From lightweight soles to removable insoles, from breathable leathers to hand-stitched detailing, every feature is designed to make walking effortless.

For women, Josef Seibel offers versatile sandals, loafers, and sneakers designed to carry you comfortably from morning errands to evening outings. For men, the collection includes casual yet polished shoes that embody German precision and durability.

Josef Seibel is more than a shoe company, it is a story of resilience, family, and innovation. Each generation has carried forward the same values: craftsmanship, comfort, and respect for the customer. For 138 years, the company has never lost sight of its purpose: to design shoes that people love to wear every day.

As the brand proudly states:

“The art lies in inventing the right shoes to satisfy our customers, again and again.”