Loden – Tradition meets diversity

What is Loden actually made of?

Loden is a dense, robust fabric that is traditionally made from new wool and is therefore a purely natural product. The wool comes from sheep and is processed using a special process. It is naturally water-repellent and windproof. The special processing reinforces these properties and makes the fabric hard-wearing.

Since when has Loden been used?

Loden has a long history and has been used for several centuries. The origins of the loden fabric can be traced back to the Middle Ages , approximately to the 6th to 8th centuries . At that time, people in the Alpine regions, especially in Austria and Bavaria, used the robust material to protect themselves from the harsh weather.

Loden was originally made and used by rural people, as sheep farming was common in these regions. People developed techniques to process the wool so that the fabric was water-repellent and warm, which was particularly important for life in the mountains.

Over the centuries, loden evolved from a simple rural work fabric to a more noble material that was also worn by the nobility and wealthier classes, especially in the 19th century. Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria, for example, often wore loden clothing, which contributed to the spread and popularity of the material.

Today, loden is still used for high-quality clothing, especially for traditional costumes and weatherproof clothing. Accordingly, it is also used for dog clothing, because dogs also need weatherproof and robust clothing if they have short fur without an undercoat or are already of advanced age.

How is Loden made?

Before making loden, you only have the new wool. The most important steps in making loden are:

1. Fulling: The new wool is spun and fulled, ie intensively processed using heat and moisture to make the fibers denser. This gives the loden its special density and weather resistance. Fulled loden is therefore even more robust than pure new wool.
2. Making it fluffy: After fulling, the surface of the fabric is roughened, creating a soft, velvety texture. This roughening also contributes to water repellency, as the fine fibers allow water to bead off.

Loden is often used for traditional clothing such as traditional jackets or coats because it provides particularly good protection against adverse weather conditions and is extremely durable.

What are the properties of Loden?

• Water-repellent: Loden is naturally water-repellent. The fulling process during production increases the effect, making Loden even more water-repellent. This property makes Loden ideal as an outdoor fabric for unpleasant weather.
• Windproof: Since Loden is processed without chemical additives, its windbreaking properties are retained. It remains windproof up to wind force 10.
• Temperature-balancing: Due to the natural wool fibers, loden can both store heat and dissipate excess heat. In winter, the material keeps the body warm because the dense structure has an insulating effect. At the same time, it remains breathable and allows excess heat and moisture to escape, thus preventing overheating.
• Robust: The fulling process compacts the wool fibers, which makes loden resistant to abrasion, tears and external influences.
• Antibacterial: Loden has antibacterial properties due to the natural structure of the wool fibers. It contains wool fat, which has an antibacterial effect and inhibits the spread of bacteria.
• Natural dirt resistance: Wool has the property of not absorbing dirt so easily. Loden is therefore relatively easy to care for and can be easily brushed or cleaned if necessary.

In summary, Loden is an extremely easy-care fabric. Dirt and particles can usually be brushed out without any problem, and the fabric absorbs very little dirt due to its special structure. With appropriate care, Loden is also extremely durable. It is important to note that Loden should not be washed. For optimal cleaning, it is recommended that the garment be treated by a professional cleaning company.

Sustainability at Loden

Wool is a natural, renewable raw material that is obtained once or twice a year through shearing. This process is carried out by traditional handwork, just as it was 100 years ago. Wool production requires significantly less energy than the production of cotton or synthetic materials and does not require the use of pesticides or petroleum. After use, wool products can be easily disposed of, for example by composting. These properties make loden an extremely sustainable material.

Loden in combination with other materials

Loden & Fleece:

Loden and fleece go well together and complement each other in functionality, making them a popular combination for outdoor clothing. Here are some reasons why they work well together:

1. Heat storage:

• Loden offers excellent insulation and keeps the body warm, even when wet.
• Fleece is lightweight and provides additional thermal insulation. It can be worn as an inner lining or additional layer to increase insulation from the cold.

2. Breathability:

• Both materials are breathable and ensure that moisture is transported to the outside, which ensures a pleasant wearing climate.

3. Comfort and freedom of movement:

• Fleece is light and flexible, while loden is robust and durable. Together they offer optimal protection and comfort without being too heavy or bulky.

4. Protection from the weather:

• Loden is naturally water-repellent and windproof, while fleece dries quickly and provides an additional layer of protection against the cold.

5. Versatility:

• Both materials are available in a variety of colors and styles, so they can be combined well to create clothing that is both functional and fashionable.

Our loden coats with detachable fleece combine these features and together make the perfect winter coat.

Dog accessories made of loden for dachshunds and small dogs

Thanks to its weather-resistant properties, Loden is particularly suitable for dogs. Whether on an autumn walk in wind and weather or in the deepest winter months - Loden offers optimal protection and comfort for your four-legged companion.

• Dog bag made of loden: Due to its robustness, loden is an ideal material for dog transport bags. Since dog bags are often taken and put down everywhere, it is particularly advantageous to choose a dirt-repellent material. Our dog bag made of loden meets these requirements and is suitable both for on the go and for safe transport in the car.
• Dog clothing made of loden: Loden is also ideal for dog clothing. Dogs that need a coat in colder temperatures particularly benefit from a loden coat. With its warming, temperature-regulating and breathable properties, it is ideal for cooler days and for bad weather. This means your four-legged friend is always well protected and comfortable.
• Dog beds made of loden: Since dogs often wear out their beds by scratching, rolling or biting, it is important to choose a durable material. Despite its warming properties, loden also offers breathability, which prevents excessive heat or moisture in the dog bed. This ensures a pleasant climate without the dog overheating. In addition, loden absorbs odors less quickly, which makes it easier to care for. Overall, loden combines comfort, robustness and functionality, making it an ideal choice for long-lasting and easy-care dog beds .

Can you wash Loden in the washing machine?

Loden should never be washed in the washing machine. Because loden is a very hard-wearing and robust material, dirt can be easily brushed off. In addition, it is sufficient to dry loden in the fresh air to remove odors.

Why do hunters wear loden?

Hunters prefer loden because the fabric is weatherproof, quiet and extremely robust, making it ideal for use in nature. It offers reliable protection from wind, rain and cold, but remains breathable and warm. The natural, muted colors of the loden allow for optimal camouflage in the environment. Thanks to its durable structure, it can withstand harsh conditions and protects against undergrowth. In addition, the noiseless fabric allows for silent movements, making it perfect for hunting without scaring the game.