Sometimes it all starts with something small.
In my case, it was a headband.
I've always been passionate about spending time in the mountains – especially ski touring. As a Tyrolean, the mountains and spending time outdoors are simply part of my everyday life. Hours in nature, exercise, fresh air. But every time, the same problem: my headband quickly got wet and eventually just became uncomfortable to wear. At some point, I thought to myself: there has to be a better way.
At the same time, my mom bought a sewing machine.
Out of sheer curiosity, I sat down and began my first sewing attempts. Without a grand plan, without experience – just trying things out. The first headbands were far from perfect, but I quickly realized how much joy I got from creating something of my own.
That's how my first headband came about. :-)
The beginning: January 2022
In January 2022, I started sewing my first headbands.
What was originally intended only for myself quickly spread. Friends and acquaintances inquired about it, and suddenly there were more and more requests. From a small experiment, an idea gradually emerged.
In March 2022, WOODMAN WEAR's online shop finally went live.
Without a grand business plan, but with a lot of passion. Alongside my full-time job, I spent every free minute building the brand, packing orders, and developing new products.
After the headbands came neck warmers and later the first hoodies. Initially, much of it was made at home and in small quantities – but it soon became clear that the demand was greater than I could handle alone.
Looking for a production partner
At the end of 2022, I consciously began looking for a suitable production partner.
From the very beginning, it was important to me that the production aligned with my values. As a Tyrolean, I wanted the manufacturing to remain regional and for Tyrol and craftsmanship to go hand in hand.
I didn't want anonymous mass production, but rather a collaboration with quality, care and a genuine connection to the region.
That's how I came across the Protected Workshop Tyrol.
The products are manufactured there with great care, creating valuable jobs and keeping everything regional. This combination of Tyrolean craftsmanship and social responsibility felt right to me.
Grown step by step
Over time, WOODMAN WEAR has grown steadily, and since 2024 I have been fully self-employed and work daily to further develop the brand.
From the initial headbands, a complete product range of accessories and clothing gradually developed. There is now also a dedicated children's line, and WOODMAN WEAR is available in select sporting goods stores.
What began as a small passion project now accompanies thousands of customers who enjoy being outdoors and appreciate a casual, timeless style.
Looking back now, I can hardly believe how it all began:
with a wet headband, my mom's sewing machine and lots of curiosity.
I never would have imagined back then that it would one day become my own brand.
And this is exactly the journey that defines WOODMAN WEAR – grown step by step, with a great passion for nature, regionality and honest products.