Esgano – Tradition, Innovation, and Quality for Four Generations

Esgano GmbH & Co. KG is a family-owned company rich in tradition, now led by the fourth generation of the Steckermeier family. Founded by master shoemaker Karl Steckermeier in Gangkofen, the company looks back on an impressive history. The great-grandfather and grandfather of today’s owners were passionate shoemakers who earned a reputation for handcrafted products and innovative designs. The company gained particular recognition for producing real fur boots and for its collaboration on a Himalayan expedition, for which the grandfather crafted specialized footwear.

Until 1976, Esgano produced locally in Gangkofen, before Karl Steckermeier Jr. moved production abroad. Despite international expansion, the company has remained true to its roots: design and development are still managed in-house, with a clear focus on quality, tradition, and innovation.

Since 2024, under the leadership of sons Andreas and Benjamin Steckermeier, Esgano has continued to grow and evolve. Thanks to their visionary approach and commitment to traditional values, the brand successfully blends master craftsmanship with contemporary footwear design.

Esgano GmbH & Co. KG stands for a unique fusion of tradition and progress – a symbol of quality, innovation, and family values.

Our History and Milestones.

1923

In 1923, master shoemaker Karl Steckermeier Sr. founded his workshop under the family name. The owner specialized in the production of Goodyear-welted mountain boots and employed up to 12 people during this time. Custom-made shoes and shoe repairs also served as an additional source of income.

1949

In 1949, Karl Steckermeier Sr. took over the business founded by his father. In addition to producing double-stitched mountain boots, he specialized in the intricate craft of making fur boots. He even developed his own type of sole. Thanks to the exceptional quality of his products, Karl Steckermeier quickly became one of the leading manufacturers of fur boots in Europe.

1955

As production capacity could no longer keep up with demand, a new manufacturing facility was built in 1955. However, by 1966, another relocation was necessary, and yet another hall was constructed. During peak times, up to 140 people—including home-based workers—were employed in the company’s own production. It was also during this period that Esgano began manufacturing abroad. Then, as now, all product development and design took place at the company headquarters.

1971

For a 1971 Himalayan expedition to Mount Rakaposhi, Karl Steckermeier crafted special hut shoes. After thorough inspection and practical testing, he was awarded a certificate of quality by the “German Institute for Foreign Research”.

1977

Due to declining demand, the production focused on fur boots was discontinued, and contract work began to be outsourced to foreign companies, primarily in Italy. In 1977, Karl Steckermeier Jr. took over the family business. However, by 1990, warehouse space had to be expanded as the volume of orders continued to grow.

2001

The medium-sized company continued to grow and thrive, leading to the construction of a new building section and further expansion of warehouse space in 2001.

2006/2007

In 2006 and 2007, the two sons, Andreas and Benjamin Steckermeier, joined the company and are set to carry on the business and family tradition.

2024

Since 2024, under the leadership of sons Andreas and Benjamin Steckermeier, Esgano has continued to evolve and steadily grow. Thanks to their visionary approach and commitment to traditional values, the brand blends masterful craftsmanship with modern shoe design.