The History of Hi-Tec
In 1974, Dutchman Frank van Wezel came up with the idea for an innovative new squash shoe. A lightweight silhouette with modern adaptions, the comfortable sneaker was perfect for his love of sports. It became hugely popular in the UK, where the brand was established.
In 1978, the Sierra boot was born, the first ‘lightweight’ outdoor boot. Building on its success, Hi-Tec also released their first running shoe in 1981, the Silver Shadow.
The 80s saw Hi-Tec grow into an international brand, spreading out to the US, Canada, South Africa, and the Netherlands.
In the 1990s, the brand found itself in hiking territory. The Altitude IV silhouette became wildly popular, and was the favourite of mountaineer Adrian Crane, who climbed the highest peaks of all 50 US states in 101 days.
The brand also diversified its line for sports including as tennis, football and golf. Its lightweight designs included innovative technologies including Ion-Mask, a hydrophobic nano-coating that makes the shoes water-repellent yet breathable.
Some highlights of Hi-Tec’s sporting achievements include:
- 1981 - The Silver Shadow is the most worn trainer during the London Marathon (23%).
- 1992 - Hi-Tec is establishing itself in the world of football. In the first season of the English Premiership football league, the Kings Cup was the best-selling football shoes.
- 1995 -Hi-Tec tennis shoes are recognised as the official shoes of the Wimbledon Tennis Championship.
- 2007 - Golfer Padraig Harrington wins 3 major championships with Hi-Tec's technologically advanced CDT golf shoe.
- 2013 - Hi-Tec wins Footwear Product of the Year at the Great Outdoors Awards with the introduction of the 'Zuuk', a lightweight multi-sport shoe.
- 2015 - Hi-Tec-sponsored athlete and three-time world squash champion Nick Matthews is officially awarded his Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Her Royal Highness Princess Anne.
Today, Hi-Tec is experiencing a trend in streetwear and fashion circles, with its retro hiking and trail designs becoming popular in collaborations and other reinterpretations.
HTS74 Collection
HTS74, which stands for Hi-Tec Sports 1974, launched in 2017, and is part of Hi-Tec’s effort to reconnect with its roots in a premium, fashion-forward sub-label collection.
Combining vintage Hi-Tec trail, running and court silhouettes with modern materials, sleeker designs, and luxury detailing, the HTS74 collection includes models such as the Shadow RGS, Badwater 146, Flash Trail, and Eastend WP.
Hi-Tec: Answering Your Questions
Is Hi-Tec a good brand?
One of the main reasons why Hi-Tec is a good brand is because of its commitment to comfort and affordability. They are designed to provide excellent support for your feet, and include features such as the waterproof and breathable membrane Dri-Tec, and cushioning and moisture-wicking Ortholite insoles. Some models have Vibram soles that provide additional durability and grip.
Where does Hi-Tec come from?
In 1974, Hi-Tec Sports was founded in Shoeburyness, Essex, England, by Dutchman Frank van Wezel. The company later moved its headquarters to Southend-on-Sea and then to Amsterdam. In 1978, Hi-Tec Sports USA was founded in Modesto, California, by Duke and Kathy Jones.
Who is the owner of Hi-Tec?
In 2016, Hi-Tec was acquired by Cherokee Inc, which later became known as Apex Global Brands. Later, in 2021, it was acquired by Galaxy Universal LLC, a US-based company. The company's headquarters are located in Amsterdam, and it continues to be led by the founder's son, Ed van Wezel.
What are Hi-Tec shoes made from?
Hi-Tec shoes are made from a combination of materials, depending on the shoe type. Uppers can be made from suede, synthetic mesh, ripstop nylon, and TPU overlays, while the outsoles are primarily made from rubber. A lightweight EVA foam is used in most models for cushioning and shock absorption, and Ortholite insoles can also be found in many of Hi-Tec's shoes.
Where are Hi-Tec shoes made?
Hi-Tec shoes are primarily made in Asia, however in 2005, the brand acquired the Falcon shoe factory in Maine, USA, which allows them to produce certain models domestically.
How do Hi-Tec sneakers fit?
Hi-Tec sneakers are slightly roomy. If you're between two sizes, then we recommend choosing the smaller size.
How do you tie Hi-Tec sneakers?
For guidance on tying your Hi-Tec laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!
How do I clean my Hi-Tec sneakers?
A Hi-Tec sneaker should be cleaned by hand. For the best results, remove the laces, then use a toothbrush to remove obvious dirt from the surface. Mix a mild detergent with some water and use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub harder stains, or for suede, use a suede brush (water can damage suede). Use a damp cloth to wipe off the residue, then let them air-dry.
For a smelly sneaker, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, then leave overnight. The powder will absorb moisture and neutralise the smell. Shake out the excess before wearing again. Alternatively, you can use silica gel or activated charcoal bags for the same results.
Laces can be cleaned with a mild detergent and rinsed afterwards, or you can put white laces in a 1:5 bleach and water solution for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
In addition, we do not recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine. Sneakers made of leather and suede can come out damaged. With shoes made of canvas or cotton, the risk is less, but the chance of damaged sneakers remains. So we recommend always washing your sneakers by hand. If you do put them in the washing machine, then place the shoes in an old pillowcase beforehand.
Where can I buy Hi-Tec?
Do you have your eye on this brand? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse Hi-Tec at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on Hi-Tec restocks and new releases!
Popular Hi-Tec Sneaker Models
Silver Shadow
The original Silver Shadow design has been reborn, keeping its retro silhouette with a lightweight PU suede upper, breathable mesh panels, additional toe protection and a soft padded tongue and collar.
A TPU moulded heel counter holds the foot firmly in place, underfoot cushioning is provided by a die-cut EVA midsole, and the durable rubber outsole is hard wearing for great traction.
Santorini
The Santorini is ideal for the gym or light jogging, with a soft, knitted mesh upper that’s both lightweight and breathable. The Mesh lining wicks away moisture and keeps the foot cool, and the low profile outsole is designed for traction and wear.
The compression moulded EVA midsole for underfoot cushioning also provides excellent comfort.
Freedom
The casual Freedom model is at home both on the court and on the street, with a thick PU footbed to provide long-lasting underfoot comfort, and a soft PU upper for additional comfort and support.
The lightweight moulded EVA midsole is ideal for both cushioning and impact protection, and the rubber outsole provides traction and wear.
Promenade
The Promenade is a walking shoe, ideal for both urban and rural areas. It’s ultra-lightweight and highly breathable, with a mesh upper that’s both flexible and supportive. Its soft padded collar and underfoot moulded EVA midsole provides comfortable cushioning.
The outsole features rubber pods for added durability.
For more FAQs on your favourite sneaker brands and models, visit the Sneaker FAQ page.
