Story

Since 1954, WERNER CHRIST has stood for quality, craftsmanship and responsibility. Our history has been shaped by continuous development, driven by the aim of combining natural materials, sustainable processes and timeless design. Discover how a family business grew into an international brand—and what continues to define WERNER CHRIST today.

1954

HERITAGE AND ORIGINS

It all began in 1954 in the Hunsrück region of Rhineland-Palatinate, where Werner and Anni Christ laid the foundations for the family business by producing patented raincoats in their garage. From the very beginning, skilled craftsmanship, functional product ideas and meticulous workmanship shaped the company’s development.

1960s

BEGINNING OF THE LEATHER AND LAMBSKIN ERA

In response to the spirit of the 1960s, the company shifted its production to leather and motorcycle jackets. During this period, it continued to expand its expertise in leather and lambskin.

1980s

A NEW BASE IN URUGUAY

The establishment of the company’s own tannery made it possible to control the entire value chain within the family business. From the raw material to the finished product, every process is carried out with the utmost care. This complete control provides the foundation for the highest quality standards, sustainable practices and exceptional expertise in working with natural materials.

1990s

DIVERSIFICATION AND EXPANSION

At the beginning of the 1990s, the second generation of the family applied the expertise gained over decades of working with leather and lambskin to new areas of application. Equestrian products became a particular focus and laid the foundation for the HorseDream product line. The aim was to harness the natural properties of lambskin specifically for horses and riders, bringing the material’s comfort, pressure-relieving and temperature-regulating qualities to the equestrian world.

2000s

LAMBSKIN FOR EQUESTRIAN SPORTS

HorseDream established itself in the equestrian world. As the demands of horses and riders increased, the product range continued to evolve. Innovative products were developed that combined functionality and comfort with the natural benefits of lambskin. This included the development and launch of the first lambskin saddle.

2010s

DIGITALISATION AND INTERNATIONAL GROWTH

As digitalisation progressed, HorseDream expanded its online presence alongside traditional print media. Its communication strategy continued to evolve with the aim of reaching riders around the world. This approach, together with close collaboration with experts and professional athletes, strengthened the brand’s international presence and contributed significantly to its continued growth and increasing recognition.

2017

NEXT GENERATION: LAUNCH OF THE WERNER CHRIST HORSE LABEL

With the creation of WERNER CHRIST HORSE, the company’s passion for high-quality leather craftsmanship was combined with the specific demands of equestrian sports and developed further. The aim was to create a consistent experience across all WERNER CHRIST brand divisions by bringing together traditional craftsmanship, carefully selected natural materials and continuous development.

With the third generation of the family, this philosophy was carried forward and enriched with new ideas to create products that meet the highest standards of quality, functionality and aesthetics.

2024

70TH ANNIVERSARY

As WERNER CHRIST celebrated its 70th anniversary, the company looked back on an eventful history. Shaped by a passion spanning generations and extensive craftsmanship expertise, the brand has continued to evolve over the decades.

Today, WERNER CHRIST HORSE remains true to its values, focusing on sustainable production, the considered use of high-quality materials and an uncompromising commitment to quality. At its heart are products developed specifically to meet the unique needs of horses and riders. They combine comfort and functionality while reflecting the special connection between people, horses and traditional craftsmanship.