The S.N.S. factory in Herning, Denmark
It is a little known fact that; the distinctive 'bubble' patterns which are found on traditional fishermen sweaters were used as a method of identifying which boating fleet sailors belonged to. Founded in the Jutland region of Denmark in 1921, S.N.S. Herning is positioned somewhat ‘better’ than many brands, to produce desirable products in an era with increased importance placed on heritage and enduring quality. With images available of the 1950’s blueprint designs for the S.N.S. Mill, outsiders are invited to learn and become part of the community spirit which Søren Nielsen Skyt aimed to exude from the brands beginnings – how else to convey the feeling of a product which was originally created by wives in fishing villages throughout the Nordic region?
S.N.S. Herning maintain a sense of a product which is built not only to withstand adverse weather, but also the effects of time, through their continuous reproduction of various styles—such as the Verison—each season with only minor colourway variations. With only five full-time workers at their offices and mill in Herning, collections remain exclusive with little over 3000 pieces produced in total each season – once again alluding to tradition and craftsmanship. The Herning focus on artisan craftsmanship and utilitarian pieces is arguably no more exemplified by the inclusion of woolen under-garments within all collections...it gets cold out at sea, at 4 am!
It would be wrong to suggest, that in some way, S.N.S. Herning is a brand stuck in the past. Whilst collaborations have been limited, their most notable, with Comme des Garçons Shirt, was no small achievement. Considering the integrity of Moncler and Heschung who are among the others to collaborate with Comme Des Garcons, we get a glimpse of the respect and standing S.N.S. Herning has within the industry itself. Now where did I put my fishing rod?