Hi-Tec apparel and footwear

Hi-Tec is a renowned global brand specializing in lightweight outdoor footwear and performance apparel. Founded in 1974 by Frank van Wezel in Shoeburyness, Essex, England, the brand gained fame with the introduction of the world's first lightweight hiking boot, the Sierra Sneaker. Over the decades, it expanded its portfolio to include court, golf, and running shoes, as well as a comprehensive line of lifestyle and technical clothing.

The brand has undergone several ownership changes. Originally a British family-owned company, it was acquired by the American brand management firm Cherokee Inc. (later renamed Apex Global Brands) in 2016. In 2021, the brand was acquired by Galaxy Universal LLC, a New York-based investment and brand management firm that specializes in the footwear industry.

Manufacturing for Hi-Tec products primarily takes place across various countries in Asia, including China and Vietnam, to leverage specialized textile and footwear production facilities. The brand also maintains a strong presence in the Netherlands, where its international headquarters and flagship store are located in Amsterdam.