Steiff: Tradition, material innovation, and an unusual teddy bear

For many people, Steiff is associated with one thing above all else: classic teddy bears, high-quality workmanship, and a long history that extends far beyond the toy market. This makes it all the more exciting when a company with precisely this background consciously breaks new ground—as is the case with the “Hansel Teddy Bear,” which was presented at the trade fair.

A teddy bear made of hemp as a collector's item

The Hansel Teddy Bear immediately catches the eye. Its fur looks unusual, slightly fuzzy, almost like wool – and that's exactly what makes it so special. The outer material is made of hemp. For Steiff, this is not a break with its own identity, but a logical further development. Hemp feels soft, is robust, and can be processed in a comparatively environmentally friendly way. Steiff is also consciously breaking new ground when it comes to details. The soles of the feet are not made of classic felt, but of pineapple leather, a plant-based material. The eyes are wooden shoe button eyes. This clearly distinguishes this teddy bear from mass-produced products and is deliberately aimed at collectors and lovers of special pieces. The edition is limited to 1,000 copies. This means that Hansel is not a mass-produced product, but a statement within the range – an experiment that shows what is possible without immediately changing existing lines.

Choice of materials with historical reference

The use of alternative materials is not a completely new topic at Steiff. As early as 1910, a so-called paper teddy bear was created, made from substitute materials. At that time, the motivation was different; today, the question is more about how materials can be used more sustainably without losing quality and character. The Hansel teddy bear continues this tradition: trying new things without denying its own history. The company is thus demonstrating that innovation does not necessarily have to be loud or radical, but can also be quiet, selective, and deliberate.

Sustainability without breaking with the brand

It is striking that Steiff is refraining from making big promises or far-reaching announcements about this product. It is not about immediately converting the entire range. Rather, the Hansel teddy bear serves as a test field: How do collectors react? How is the material received? What experiences can be gained in production? This cautious approach fits the brand. Steiff stands for longevity and consistency. A teddy bear is often not a disposable product, but the cuddly toy accompanies people for years or even generations. In this context, the question of materials takes on additional significance.

• Outer material made of hemp with a soft feel
• Soles made of pineapple leather instead of felt
• Wooden shoe button eyes as a deliberate detail
• Limited edition of 1,000 copies

Between toy and collector's item

The Hansel teddy bear is aimed less at children's rooms than at display cases and collections. The design is deliberately understated, almost nostalgic, and emphasizes the craftsmanship that went into it. At the same time, it remains clearly recognizable as a Steiff teddy bear – both in form and appearance. It is precisely this balance that is interesting: a modern material concept meets classic teddy aesthetics. The result is not a fashionable effect, but a product that is intended to be timeless. This is precisely what distinguishes it from short-lived design experiments.

Looking ahead without committing

Steiff deliberately remains open to the question of whether more teddy bears made from alternative materials will follow in the future. “Let yourself be surprised” is the answer. This is more than just a cliché. It signals that the Hansel teddy bear is not an isolated coincidence, but also that there is no finished master plan behind it. For a company with over a century of history, this approach is understandable. Innovation here does not come about through rapid changes of direction, but through targeted impulses. The Hansel teddy bear is just such an impulse – small in terms of production run, but big in terms of statement.

A quiet but clear sign

With this product, Steiff shows that tradition and new material ideas are not mutually exclusive. The Hansel Teddy Bear exemplifies a path that remains open: try, observe, think ahead. Without exaggeration, without loud messages – but with a clear awareness of responsibility, quality, and history.