Hirschkleber The Original since 1924

The Original since 1924

Hirschkleber is a time-tested adhesive, trusted for generations for lamination and leatherwork – reliable in craftsmanship and versatile in use.

Hirschkleber – Applications

Shoe Uppermaking

Hirschkleber is ideally suited for bonding toe and heel stiffeners as well as uppers – especially leather stiffeners, but also suitable for plastic stiffeners.

Before bonding, the stiffeners are skived and then evenly coated with the adhesive. Thanks to its longer drying time, the adhesive remains flexible, making it easier to position the stiffeners precisely.

Hirschkleber does not bleed through. Drying time is approximately 15–20 minutes and can be extended by adding water. After drying, micro-cracks form, keeping the leather breathable so that moisture is not blocked due to adhesive barrier. Particularly practical: for reversible work, the adhesive can be re-wetted, allowing stiffeners to be removed with minimal residue.

Hirschkleber – ideal for orthopaedic applications and professional shoemakers.

OUR STORY

Proven for Generations – Since 1924

Hirschkleber stands for a long tradition of starch-based craft adhesives developed for shoemaking and leatherwork.

Long before modern contact cements, shoemakers relied on workshop-friendly pastes that could be applied precisely, remained breathable, and—when needed—could be softened again with water for adjustments and repair work.

Officially, the name Hirschkleber has been used since 1924, carrying this craft approach into a consistent, dependable product for professional use. The “Hirsch” (deer) is part of the brand’s heritage: in the shoemaking world, workshop symbols and guild culture shaped names and identities, and the deer became the emblem that stayed with this adhesive.

Over time, the recipe and manufacturing were refined, but the idea remained the same—an honest, practical adhesive that preserves the spirit of traditional shoemaking.