STONEY CREEK, Ontario — October 18, 2024 — Baffin, a supplier of cold climate footwear and apparel, is pleased to announce the appointment of Austin Sedlbauer as lead designer. This strategic addition comes as Baffin continues to solidify its reputation for quality and innovation in the industry, while expanding domestic manufacturing volume.
Sedlbauer joins Baffin after a successful tenure as lead designer at Cougar Shoes. With extensive experience in footwear design and a strong understanding of materials and consumer preferences, Sedlbauer is set to elevate Baffin’s already robust product line. His role will be pivotal in refining the brand’s design philosophy and ensuring that Baffin remains at the forefront of technical advancements and market trends.
Sedlbauer’s appointment is especially significant, as it marks a continuation of a legacy deeply rooted in the history of Baffin. In 1959, the founder of Baffin’s first manufacturing operation, Peter Hubner, honed his experience in shoemaking working with Sedlbauer’s grandfather, Walter Sedlbauer, at Susan Shoes, the company that would later introduce the Cougar brand. This collaboration established a tradition of craftsmanship and innovation that continues to shape the industry today. Sedlbauer’s connection to this heritage underscores Baffin’s ongoing commitment to quality and tradition.
“Welcoming Austin to our team is not just a strategic move; his historical ties reinforce our legacy,” said Mark Hubner, senior vice president at Baffin. “The experience and innovative vision he brings will lend a fresh perspective to our product offerings, strengthening our market position. We are excited to see how his leadership will drive technical advancements and elevate our design aesthetics as we look to the future.”
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join Baffin, a true leader in the cold climate footwear industry,” Sedlbauer said. “It’s an honor to be part of a team that is deeply committed to innovation and quality. I look forward to collaborating with such talented individuals to create exceptional products that not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations. Together, I believe we can take Baffin’s legacy to new heights.”
Sedlbauer will join the Baffin team immediately and will report out of the Stoney Creek headquarters.
Posted: October 18, 2024
Source: Baffin Ltd.
