After an incompletely healed war injury, it was hard for Hans Haupt to carry his walking stick and an umbrella at the same time. Therefore, he looked for a solution. The result was the first umbrella with a telescopic frame. It fit perfectly in Haupt’s pocket and was always available when it rained! Because of his small size, it was only natural that he called him his “little guy”. Thereby, the name of one of the world’s most popular umbrella manufacturers arose. Because “little guy” means in German: Knirps.
THE KNIRPS HISTORY
Hans Haupt revolutionized the market in 1928 with his foldable pocket umbrella. The first Knirps was born and an entire industry was upside down.
To this day, the Knirps brand continues to be highly attractive and desirable. With products that present innovation, design, and function in perfect harmony, Knirps repeatedly sets standards and underlines its entrepreneurial character.
The automatic umbrella, invented by Knirps in 1965, is still in use around the world. At least as popular is the award-winning Knirps pocket umbrella X1. It is, so far, the smallest ambassador of the internationally successful Knirps brand. In addition to the quality standard at the highest level, which guarantees consistent product quality, the continuous development of the range is an important part of the brand’s philosophy.
THE PLASTIC POLLUTION
In addition to function and design, environmental pollution, microplastics, and climate change are among the most important issues today. It is an every day issue for all of us. Whether in private life or when running a company. It is high time to rethink and put an end to the careless use of resources.
PFC-free
As the first umbrella brand, Knirps, in cooperation with Schoeller, offers PFC-free umbrella fabrics. Therefore, as far as possible, the production is environmentally friendly. Almost all umbrellas of this collection are equipped with the Ecorepel technology from the Swiss textile manufacturer. Hence, they are ecologically water- and dirt-repellent.
The design of the ten new models in up to three colors for women and men is inspired by the beauty of nature that needs to be protected. Firstly, an all-over print of ginkgo leaves symbolizes vitality. Secondly, a field of vigorously blooming poppies lies over the canopy.
Then, crystal worlds are interpreted in modern graphic patterns combined with fine, glittering lines. Besides, striking motifs such as large diamond structures are complemented by more subtle designs in blue and black. The names of the umbrellas are Life, Perspective, View, and Difference. Thus, they call for a change of perspective.