SCRAPYARD SUCCESS STORY

How a trek through the trash inspired Airpaq’s stylish, sustainable backpacks—including a new limited edition Stetson collaboration and matching trucker cap.

Where others saw junk, Airpaq’s founders Adrian Goosses and Michael Widmann saw opportunity, literally in a junkyard. While working on a recycling project for their master’s program, they were struck by the number of automobiles—and by the number of things they could build from the cars’ different components.

One stood out in particular, the airbag. Struck by the high-quality and unique handfeel of the silicone-treated woven polyamide used to construct it, they thought, “Why not make a backpack out of it?” And thus the Airpaq was born.

In addition to the airbag, the Airpaq ingeniously incorporates another automobile safety feature, the seat belt, repurposing the woven polyamide belt portion into the backpack’s straps and the belt’s buckle, which closes the pack with a pleasing click. Their durable, waterproof, stylish creations became their master thesis, and soon after, their business.

Now, they’ve teamed up with Stetson for a special edition backpack, limited to 100, that features a custom two-tone grey color with an embroidered Stetson logo. It will be available, along with a matching 3D embroidered logo trucker cap Stetson created using Airpaq’s sustainable airbag material, at stetson.eu and select retail stores.

https://www.airpaq.de/

Get the bag here --> AIRPAQ x STETSON

Get the cap here --> STETSON x AIRPAQ

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

Sculptor Johannes Hepp talks about his craft, his cap of choice and his seven new sculptures that celebrate Stetson’s 160th anniversary

Using a chainsaw, a chisel and other tools, 38-year-old German sculptor Johannes Hepp infuses human emotion into blocks of linden wood—one chip at a time—to create human forms that, while not necessarily photorealistic, appear shockingly lifelike. Now, he’s bringing the Stetson lifestyle to life with this anniversary collection.

What draws you to working with wood?

I love wood as a material because you can work with it relatively quickly and it still has a certain resistance. Also, it’s renewable, I can heat with the leftovers and, of course, it smells very good.

Do you have a favorite wood?

I use different woods such as oak, cherry, cedar or poplar, but for me, the most beautiful to carve is linden wood, which I used for this project with Stetson. Even in the Middle Ages, figures were mostly carved from linden wood. It is beautifully soft, rarely tears and has a very beautiful color. It also has hardly any grain, which I like.

What was your idea behind the seven pieces you created for Stetson’s 160th anniversary?

The idea was to carve a figure that captured the lifestyle of each Stetson hat. Under each real Stetson, there is a small figure that could wear the hat. Also, the hat's size almost turns it into a home, or at least a shelter for the figures. I always see my Stetson hats as a kind of roof. They definitely offer me protection. The figures themselves appear so animated, one half expects them to open their mouths and speak. Perhaps not the cowboy. He looks like the strong, silent type. It is always a challenge to give the figures a soul and something of their own. Sometimes I keep picking them up and working on them until I am satisfied.

You mentioned your Stetson, what’s your preferred hat?

I’m definitely a fan of the trucker cap. I love the quality and the style. Do you wear it in the studio? That’s a pretty big chainsaw over there. [Laughing] Yes, safety glasses and above all my Stetson cap. The visor helps to keep a clear line of sight from all of the falling chips.

www.johanneshepp.com

FOREVER WILD

Danish chef and adventurer Brian Bojsen has always been drawn to nature — and draws inspiration from it in his new limited-edition cap.

A never-ending sense of adventure has been the guiding force of Wild Scandinavia’s Brian Bojsen’s life, from his time as a professional longboard surfer and photographer, through his career as a chef, restaurateur and TV host. These days, he’s focused on creating authentic Scandinavian dining experiences that are fueled by his three biggest passions: travel, the outdoors and open-fire cooking. “I value a great BBQ out in nature. Being in the woods and setting up my gear is the best feeling,” he says, “it’s a special vibe.”

Whatever the adventure, he’s rarely seen without his signature cap. “I started collecting Stetson caps a long time ago. They have great quality and I love their designs,” he says, “I’m very proud to have my second limited edition coming out.” The new limited edition cap will be available this April at Stetson stores and select retailers in Europe, as well as online at stetson.eu and Brian’s webshop, features an original design inspired by Bojsen’s love of the natural world and a bright orange tone. “It’s one of my favorite colors,” he says, “And if you´re out in nature, you need to be visible.”

Check out the cap & Brian's message here

Introducing the Special Edition Stetson Store City Trucker Caps

Stetson Store City Trucker Caps – A Collector’s Item For True Stetson Lovers Celebrate your city with our exclusive Stetson Store City Trucker Caps – individually designed for each store's location while united by a signature look. Whether you're a longtime Stetson fan or a collector searching for a unique piece, these Special-Edition caps are a must-have for every Stetson enthusiast. Exclusively available in-store only – find your city's edition at your nearest Stetson Store and complete your collection today!

Stetson Store Amsterdam
Stetson Store Berlin
Stetson Store Hamburg
Stetson Store Frankfurt
Stetson Store Lisbon
Stetson Store London

Looking West

How Volbeat frontman Michael Poulsen’s love of American heritage style led to a new limited special edition cap.

From the time his dad introduced him to early American rock & roll and Hollywood westerns, Volbeat and Asinhell frontman Michael Poulsen has felt himself drawn to classic Americana. In many ways, it’s been the touchstone of his artistic inspiration and it continues to inform his choice of pick-up truck (a vintage Ford), electric guitar (a Gibson SG GT) and cowboy hat (a Stetson, purchased while on tour in Texas, naturally). He’s also a fan of another American heritage style, the trucker cap.

Frequently seen spotting a Stetson trucker cap between gigs, Poulsen has now collaborated on a special limited edition cap that is available at Stetson stores in Europe and online at www.stetson.eu.

STETSON ANNOUNCES LIMITED EDITION CAP WITH VOLBEAT’S MICHAEL POULSEN

Michael Poulsen, frontman for the multi-platinum Danish band Volbeat, has been a longtime Stetson fan—and now he’s put his own stamp on our signature aesthetic. The resulting limited edition collaboration will be available in Stetson stores and selected retailers in Europe and online at www.stetson.eu beginning July 22, 2024. The cap features an exclusive graphic of the Stetson logo that’s inspired by the desert landscapes of the American West and features earthy brown, green and yellow tones that echo the band’s album artwork. In the two decades since their formation, Volbeat has established themselves as one of the biggest global names in hard rock and heavy metal, selling millions of records, collecting billions of streams, selling out countless shows and comfortably sharing the stage with legends like Black Sabbath, Metallica and Slipknot. Poulsen grew up inspired by the classic American rock ‘n’ roll and old Hollywood westerns his father introduced him to as a kid. He’s also been a fan of Stetson since the time he wrote the word “Stetson” in his toy cowboy hat as a child, going on to purchasing his first real Stetson cowboy hat during his first trip to the United States and frequently wearing the brand’s trucker caps between and even during gigs. He can even been seen sporting a Stetson trucker cap on the back of last year’s Impii Hora, the debut album by Michael’s other band, Asinhell. The limited edition caps will be available at Stetson stores, selected retailers in Europe and online at stetson.eu.

Auction for a good cause: Stetson is delighted about international interest

As part of a charity initiative, Stetson Europe auctioned off three unique pieces that were created in collaboration with the French artist duo "The Feebles". Numerous bids were received for the hand-painted Stetson products until the auction ended on March 3, 2024.

Although the Stetson Fedora hat quickly emerged as the star of the auction, the Trucker Cap and the Hatteras also quickly found interested bidders. After an exciting auction finale, the final sum amounted to 872 euros.

Stetson was particularly pleased about the international interest, as the unique pieces will be going to three different countries - Germany, France and Italy. To make the auction a well-rounded affair, Friedrich W. Schneider GmbH & Co. KG - Stetson's European licensee - has decided to round up the donation amount to 1500 euros. The proceeds of the auction will benefit the organization "Aktion Deutschland Hilft". Aktion Deutschland Hilft is an association of renowned German relief organizations. In the event of major disasters and emergencies, they provide humanitarian aid abroad - together, quickly and in a coordinated manner. The alliance also helps with disaster preparedness. These aid projects help people to be better prepared for natural disasters and the consequences of climate change.

NEW STETSON FLAGSHIP STORE IN LISBON!

On December 15th we openend a new Stetson Store in Lisbon, the heart of Portugal. The shop owner Rita Rua was raised in a family that owned two traditional hat stores downtown Lisbon, founded in 1886 by her great-grandfather. She has been familiar with the Stetson brand since childhood and her past gravely marked her passion and expertise for headwear. Located in Lisbon's main shopping area "Chiado", the 754 sq. ft space showcase a wide range of legendary and signature Stetson hats, caps and accessoires.

Find the shop here: 📍 Rua Nova do Almada 84, 1200-289 Lisbon, Portugal

NEW STETSON FLAGSHIP STORE IN AMSTERDAM!

Stetson is proud to annouce a new flagship store opening. On April 18th Stetson opened its first store in the beautiful Netherlands, in its capital Amsterdam. From now on, hat and cap lovers have the opportunity to shop their favorite Stetson styles in the center of Amsterdam, more precisely on the Oude Hoogstraat 10. The store is as wonderful as its wide range of different Stetson styles. From straw hats, up to trucker, western or newsboy caps, everyone will find what he/she is looking for.

Find the shop here: 📍 Oude Hoogstraat 10, 1012 CE Amsterdam

STETSON OPENED ITS FIRST UK FLAGSHIP STORE!

On March 15th Stetson opened its first UK store in the heart of London's West End. Situated within Seven Dials on Covent Garden’s Neal Street, the 1,165 sq. ft space showcase a wide range of signature Stetson styles from outdoor lifestyle and authentic Western hats to timeless classics and streetwear styles for both men and women. The thoughtfully designed store pays homage to Stetson’s roots taking inspiration from 'The Great Outdoors' with elevated details reflecting the brand's heritage.

STETSON EUROPE BECOMES OFFICIAL SUPPLIER OF THE EUROPEAN LEAGUE OF FOOTBALL!

From helmets to heads! The European League of Football and Stetson Europe have signed a sponsorship deal for the coming season. Stetson, as a traditional brand, will serve as the official supplier of the largest European football league. Foundedi n the USA in 1865 and named after John B. Stetson, the company and the pan-European league also work hand in hand to improve merchandising. In 2023, for example, the company will have its own collection with Stetson. Sebastian Boekholt, managing director of FWS (European licensee of Stetson): "We are super excited to be an official supplier of the European League of Football. Stetson, an authentic American heritage headwear brand and Europe's most exciting American Football League, is a perfect match. We are looking forward to supply fans, staff and players of the European League of Football with the best headwear available." Zeljko Karajica, managing director of the European League of Football: "Stetson stand for quality in headwear for centuries. With this partnership, we are creating an exciting field for both sides and will be able to further increase our quality in merchandising."

Stetson Spring/Summer Collection Video - Episode #4

This summer, Stetson's hitting the beach! But what's new, which products are special and where do they come from? To dive into the spring/summer collection 2022, Stetson created a short YouTube series consisting of six episodes. Six groups of products, six experts, six styles - One summer! Get ready for episode #4 - Street Caps, Trucker & Buckets. Find the video here: Stetson Spring/Summer 2022 Collection Video - Episode #4

Stetson Spring/Summer Collection Video - Episode #3

This summer, Stetson's hitting the beach! But what's new, which products are special and where do they come from? To dive into the spring/summer collection 2022, Stetson created a short YouTube series consisting of six episodes. Six groups of products, six experts, six styles - One summer! Get ready for episode #3 - Theme SS22 "Beach"! Find it here: Stetson Spring/Summer 2022 Collection - Episode #3

Stetson Spring/Summer 2022 Collection Video - Episode #2

This summer, Stetson's hitting the beach! But what's new, which products are special and where do they come from? To dive into the spring/summer collection 2022, Stetson created a short YouTube series consisting of six episodes. Six groups of products, six experts, six styles - One summer! Get ready for episode #2 - Panama Hats, Fine Braids Italy. Find it here: Episode #2 on YouTube

Stetson Spring/Summer Collection - Series

This summer, Stetson's hitting the beach! But what's new, which products are special and where do they come from? To dive into the spring/summer collection 2022, Stetson created a short YouTube series consisting of six episodes. Six groups of products, six experts, six styles - One summer! Get ready for episode #1 on the Stetson YouTube channel. Find the first episode here: Stetson Spring/Summer Collection Episode #1

Henrik Freischlader: Three is not enough

People who know Henrik's collection from Stetson Styles think that 200 isn’t enough. The great blues musician owns far more than 200 hats & caps, after all. These already include three Stetson styles – two caps and a hat – that carry his name. Now the Stetson Rocks musician has designed a new Stetson Hatteras cap on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of his own record label: his fourth signature style! Specially manufactured for him, made of pure new wool with a herringbone pattern and an embroidered Cable Car Records label. “Made Especially for Henrik Freischlader by Stetson,” says the dark blue inner lining – and if you want, you can also wear his style: which is available here. By the way, you can watch a cool portrait of Henrik and his love for Stetson on YouTube.

Good to be here: Stetson is opening a new store in Hamburg

One more reason to make a stopover at the city hall in Hamburg: Stetson has opened a new store! If you are looking for authentic styles and a quick chat among like-minded people, you will easily find both at Herrmannstrasse 40 from mid-November onwards. Why not swing by – after all, a good store filled to the brim with cool hats, caps and other things is only complete if it also has the right people visit it. And all good things come in fours, by the way: Following Berlin, Frankfurt and Sylt, the store in Hamburg is now the fourth Stetson store in Germany. Although we could raise you one by counting the store in Perugia, Italy, too. Tell us which of our five Stetson stores in Europe you have already visited, for example on Instagram.

Stetson goes one step further with the Kölner Haie

The new ice hockey season is about to start, and the excitement is growing. Excitement is high at Stetson, too – and we’re collaborating with the Kölner Haie team even more intensively than before! Eagle-eyed fans have already noticed a visible sign of the premium partnership: the new helmet design. The cool look was developed in collaboration with Stetson's art director from New York. A dark gray 3D design with a Donegal impression meets an icy white to form a shark helmet with three gills. FWS managing director Klaus Kirschner takes up the Haie claim: “Now more than ever, we breathe ice hockey.” Haie managing director Philipp Walter thinks it’s great “that we not only share our convictions, but that we will also be able to expand our joint experiences going forward.” True fans can participate the intensive collaboration: The Haie shop now exclusively offers a Stetson trucker cap with a shark motif.

Still doing good – Stetson presents the proceeds of the Haie helmet auction

When does a Kölner Haie player voluntarily hand over his helmet? When Stetson wants to auction it off for a good cause. At the summer party of the Kölner Haie it finally came to pass: The helmets of Mo Müller, Ryan Jones, Jason Akeson and Freddie Tiffels changed owners! And Stetson’s marketing person Michal R. “Bronski” Brzozowski (right) presented KEC "Die Haie" e.V. managing director and headcoach Rodion Pauels (middle) and Hans Höfermann (left), head of sponsorship and board member with a check for 2,651 euro from the charity auction. 100% of the proceeds will go to KEC’s social work for children and youth, which currently supports 260 children and adolescents between the ages of 4 and 19. Naturally, the proud new owners of the Haie helmets were also invited to get into the mood for the new season together with the players, fans and bands from Cologne. Photo: Kai Tigelkamp

Stronger on Ice – Stetson Auctions off Haie Helmets

91 – 28 – 19 – 21: Haie fans know directly who donates his helmet for a good cause, to support children and adolescents on their path. Stetson auctions off the Kölner Haie helmets of Mo Müller, Ryan Jones, Jason Akeson and Freddie Tiffels – used and signed! 100% of the proceeds will go to KEC’s social work for children and youth, which currently supports 260 children and adolescents between the ages of 4 and 19. A part of the proceeds will go to the “summer ice” to keep developing team spirit and personality in the summer months, too. The other part will be spent on new sports equipment, since strength and agility are needed everywhere, not only in the world’s fastest team sport. How you can contribute? Win the helmet of your favorite player in the auction – and we will additionally invite you to the “Stetson Suicide Box” for the first Haie home match in the new season! The auctions (eBay) start on July 28 and end on August 4, 2019, 8:00 p.m. GOOD LUCK!

We did good – Stetson presents the proceeds of the Haie helmet auction

The first Kölner Haie home game of the season offered the perfect backdrop for a large check. KEC and Stetson collaborated in this project to support the Kalker Kindermittagstisch e.V. in the financing of a youth worker position . The Kalker Kindermittagstisch e.V. offers a hot meal and help with homework to 120 children who do not receive sufficient care at home. The founder of the organization, Elisabeth Klotz, was very happy about the 3,011.33 euros received from the auction of four helmets belonging to Haie players Christian Ehrhoff, Mo Müller, Felix Schütz and Sebastian Uvira. The proud new owners of the Haie helmets were beaming too: They were invited into the "Stetson Suicide Box" during the Haie home game by the Haie managing director Philipp Walter (right) and Stetson marketing manager Michal R. Bronski Brzozowski (left). Photos: Kai Tigelkamp

Good guys for a good cause – Stetson is auctioning off Haie helmets

Which fan of the Kölner Haie wouldn't want a helmet from his favorite team? From Christian Ehrhoff, Mo Müller, Felix Schütz or Sebastian Uvira? Stetson's got its hands on four helmets for you - and you can bid for them for a good cause! The Kalker Kindermittagstisch e.V. is offering 120 children with insufficient care at home a hot meal, help with homework, and more. KEC and Stetson have joined forces to support the financing of a youth worker position there. What can you do to help? Bid on your favorite player's helmet and help the kids in this way! The eBay auctions end on 7/13/2018, 8 p.m. The association receives 100% of the proceeds. The kicker: The helmet winner is invited to the "Stetson Suicide Box" for the first Haie home game of the new season. Will we see you there?