History
Made with passion
In 1910, the vision of our founder Johann van Elten brought a breakthrough for safety footwear as we know it today: the first ELTEN safety shoe made of leather instead of wood.
Today we are one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of quality safety and work shoes. With more than 310 employees, we produce approximately 2 million pairs of shoes each year.
This tradition, together with the personal dedication of every single employee, underpins our commitment to the protection and safety of the individual.
2015
Introduction of the new series WELLMAXX. Safety shoes with a revolutionary sole core made of Infinergy® by BASF.
2014
Introduction of the new series BIOMEX DYNAMICS with a special outsole concept.
2013
Introduction of a concept for semi-orthopaedic inlay soles.
2013
The innovative outsole DIMENSION PRO was developed in cooperation with scientists of Tübingen University – for more comfort and safety on modern industrial floors.
2012
Introduction of safety shoes equipped with the BOA closure system, replacing customary laces
2011
With its new series L10, ELTEN sets new standards when it comes to modern safety footwear.
2008
ELTEN offers orthopaedic foot protection according to DGUV-Rule 112-191
2007
Elten introduces safety shoes with a composite toe cap
2006
ELTEN ERGO-ACTIVE, the new fit pros with 4 feature technology
2005
Cooperation with brand manufacturer LOWA
2004
Introduction of L-Protection, a non-metallic penetration-resistant midsole
2003
BIOMEX PROTECTION© for the stabilization of the ankle joints
2002
Construction of a modern distribution centre in Uedem
2001
Introduction of the patented ELTEN SAFETY-GRIP sole
2000
Introduction of ELTEN ESD-line for protection against electrostatic endangered devices
1995
Heiner van Elten and Jörg van Elten (from 2002) take over the management as the company founder’s great-grandchildren
1984
Development of the directly injected two-layer sole PU/PU
Since 1960
Use of steel toe caps to protect the toes
1954
Heinz van Elten and later on also Eugen van Elten are the third generation of the family to run the business
1950
Heinrich van Elten takes over the paternal company
1947-1949
Reconstruction of the factory and administration
1945
Complete demolition of the production facilities and administration
Since 1920
Individual development of styles which fit the demands of industry and skilled trades
Top left: mining boot from 1950
Unten links: Laced boot from 1960
Right: Armed forces boot from 1970
1910
Foundation of the shoe factory in Uedem by Johann van Elten.
The first Elten work shoes made of leather – instead of wood, as it was common at that time