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190 Years of Waldhausen - Tradition & Innovation in Equestrian Sports

Reading time: 6 minutes | Publication: 19.03.2026

For 190 years, Waldhausen has stood for the highest quality in equestrian sports, combining tradition with innovation and establishing itself as a reliable partner for horse and rider. Founded in 1836 as a saddlery, Waldhausen has grown through decades of expertise into one of the largest equestrian wholesalers in the world. 

The Cologne-based company continuously strives to stay at the forefront of the industry while maintaining its tradition of developing consistently high-quality products for both horse and rider. 

Rainer Zufall

The History of Waldhausen – Over 190 Years of Expertise

Waldhausen was founded in 1836 by Anton Waldhausen as a saddlery. In 1866, the business was taken over by his son Henri. Under his leadership, the product range was expanded to include leather goods and luggage, allowing the retail business to gain increasing recognition and continue to grow steadily.

In 1961, Waldhausen developed into an internationally leading supplier of equestrian products and has since become an integral part of the equestrian world. Over generations, the product range has been continuously expanded and improved.

Crinale di montagna rocciosa con cime coperte di neve

The year 1972 marked an important milestone for the company in the equestrian world. Waldhausen became the official supplier of the German Olympic Equestrian Committee and was widely present at major events. To this day, Waldhausen continues to equip the German Olympic Equestrian Committee, remaining true to its tradition and commitment to quality.

In 1989, the Waldhausen brand was expanded with the in-house label “E·L·T”, a brand specializing in rider apparel. With E·L·T, Waldhausen develops functional and high-quality clothing designed specifically for equestrian sports, always focusing on adapting to modern requirements.

In 2010, the third in-house brand, “SWING”, was officially registered. The brand focuses on back and body protectors as well as durable riding helmets that meet the latest safety standards while offering excellent value for money.

Today, 190 years after its founding, Waldhausen represents tradition, quality, and innovation. These values originate from the company’s long history, which has always been driven by a deep passion for horses and riders.

Waldhausen Today – Tradition Meets Innovation

After 190 years of company history, Waldhausen successfully combines tradition and innovation in modern equestrian sports. The values that laid the foundation for the company’s success in 1836 still form the basis of Waldhausen today. Quality awareness, premium materials, responsible business practices, and long-term customer satisfaction are the results of dedicated work that has never lost its passion for horses and riders. At the same time, Waldhausen continues to evolve in order to meet the growing demands of both leisure and competitive equestrian sports. At the same time, Waldhausen continues to evolve in order to meet the growing demands of both leisure and competitive equestrian sports.

Modern equipment today has to achieve far more than it did just a few years ago. In addition to meeting current aesthetic trends, it must also be functional, durable, safe, and comfortable. As the demands on equestrian equipment have increased, Waldhausen has grown and evolved accordingly. At the same time, the company has never lost sight of its core principle: offering high-quality products with a fair price-performance ratio. The know-how built up over generations consistently flows into the development of modern products. But innovation does not stop at the product level. Waldhausen also focuses on professional advice, digital solutions, and close collaboration with specialist retailers and equestrian experts worldwide. The result is a holistic approach that combines experience with progress and ensures that the brand will continue to set standards in equestrian sports in the future.

At Waldhausen, tradition is not a look back into the past, but a strong foundation for innovation and continued development.

Fotocamera Kodak vintage con guaina e cinturino
Pianta grassa in un vaso bianco su sfondo azzurro

High-Quality Equestrian Products at Waldhausen

Over the decades, Waldhausen has grown from a small saddlery into one of the largest equestrian wholesalers worldwide. What once began with a small selection of saddles has developed into a diverse product range that delights every equestrian enthusiast. Waldhausen’s high-quality product range includes saddles, horse rugs, bridles, and care products. These products have been perfected over many years, developed in close cooperation with equestrian experts, and tested for safety, fit, and functionality. With a commitment to the highest quality standards, only durable and premium materials are used in production.

Our Product Range for Riders and Horses

Waldhausen’s product world combines well-thought-out functionality, durable materials, and a deep understanding of the requirements of equestrian sports. From everyday work with horses to ambitious competition riders, Waldhausen develops products that optimally support both horse and rider.

Every spring and autumn, Waldhausen launches a new collection for riders and horses, combining current trends with stylish colors, elegance, functionality, and quality.

Fotocamera Kodak vintage con guaina e cinturino
Pianta grassa in un vaso bianco su sfondo azzurro
Occhiali da sole con telaio in oro su superficie riflettente di marmo
Crinale di montagna rocciosa con cime coperte di neve

Continuous development also includes creating new products and successfully introducing them to the market. Waldhausen regularly releases new items that are permanently integrated into the product range and feature new functions or innovative ideas.

Why the Right Equipment is Essential

Good and properly fitting equipment is essential for successful training. Both the horse’s and the rider’s comfort and satisfaction depend on using the right equipment. Only properly fitting equipment can provide the protection and comfort it promises. Poorly fitting equipment can sometimes even lead to injuries and cause harm rather than benefit to horse and rider. This is why it is so important for Waldhausen to produce equipment that is optimally adapted to both horse and rider and designed to match their anatomy.

Frequently Asked Questions – Quick Overview

Waldhausen was founded in 1836 and is therefore celebrating its 190th anniversary this year. The company is one of the largest equestrian wholesalers worldwide and its products are available in nearly every equestrian retail store.
Waldhausen evolves with the times and continuously strives to improve while always staying true to its core values and maintaining consistently high quality standards.
Waldhausen offers products for all disciplines of equestrian sports, from competition equipment for horse and rider to products for leisure riding, western riding, and Icelandic riding.
Waldhausen supports riders and horses with high-quality, functional, and safety-tested equipment specifically designed for the demands of both training and competition. The products are developed in close cooperation with equestrian experts and are continuously improved. Through carefully selected materials, optimal fit, and modern technologies, Waldhausen ensures maximum comfort and safety for both horse and rider.
Crinale di montagna rocciosa con cime coperte di neve
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