WHO WE ARE
Founded in 1924, we are a British modern heritage brand with a rich history of moving people forwards. Built on 100 years of outerwear excellence and motoring innovation, we have equipped successive generations with lasting apparel for life’s pursuits.
Over the decades, we have designed protective suits for racing drivers to give them the confidence to go faster.
We’ve developed windproof smocks for Marines to help them weather the storm. We’ve created insulating clothing for mountaineers so they can venture farther. One thing is at the heart of all these endeavours: an independent spirit.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
Belstaff Manufacturing Ltd was born in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, at a time when leisure pursuits were becoming more accessible and more liberating. Our founders, Eli Belovitch (pictured) and Harry Grosberg, were pioneers who pursued new fabric technologies, particularly for waterproofing.
At the time, the cotton industries of the north of England were faltering, but with Belstaff, Eli and Harry created new opportunities. A business that was started by two hard-working Jewish immigrants has now grown to become a brand entrenched in British history and culture.
Throughout Belstaff’s many chapters, we have evolved, adapted and endured, but the foundations of the brand remain unchanged: Britishness, innovation and adventure.
MADE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MOSAIC FILMS
Our History
1920S
In our early years, the focus was on waterproofing and functional apparel. We produced garments such as capes leggings, rucksacks and army shirts.
1924
Belstaff Manufacturing Ltd formally starts business in Stoke-on-Trent.
1928
A brewery, cottages and blacksmith’s shop on Caroline Street in Longton are converted into a factory, where our first motorcycle clothing is made. Mid 1920s: The oldest existing Belstaff product – a rare leather flying jacket – carries the “Bellstaff” label with the original double L spelling.
1930S
There is little physical evidence of our early days. What we know has been pieced together through advertisements and promotional materials in titles such as the motorcycle.
1932
One of our earliest advertisement features the Senior TT Competition Coat and the gabardine Senior Storm Coat.
1937
Harry Grosberg, Eli Belovitch’s son-in-law, becomes Chairman and Managing Director of Belstaff, a position he goes to hold for 30 years.
1939
World War II begins and Belstaff stops manufacturing camping equipment to begin production for the special forces at the request of the War Office.
1940S
Our participation in the war effort continues throughout a decade that marks both endings and beginnings.
1943
Our founder, Eli Belovitch passes away.
1948
Belstaff is bought by James Halsted Group, which brings fresh energy and investment to the brand.
1950S
Belstaff shifts gear, frequently introducing new products and designs.
1953
The Paracom 53 jacket is introduced. It is the first example of the length of jacket for which we’re known today.
1954
Sammy Miller, now a legendary motorcycle champion, wears Belstaff while competing in his first Scottish Six Days Trial, aged 17.
1956
We advertise our first womenswear style, the Scooterjak Suit.
1959
The Trialmaster jacket is officially launched.
1960S
A defining decade that brings about expansion and continues to solidify our status in motorcycle culture.
EARLY 60S
The prominence of the Rockers peaks – one of the most famous biker subcultures in British history. The 59 Club emerges as their popular hangout spot, with many wearing and customising Belstaff leather and wax jackets.
1966
We open another factory at Stonewall, Silverdale. It is one of the most modern factories in the area and has room for 300 employees.
1970S
The pinnacle decade in our history in outdoor pursuits.
1974
Three new factories open in the Hartlepool area.
1977
We create protective gear for the British climber and his team for their ascent of one of the world’s toughest peaks, The Ogre in Pakistan. Belstaff is one of the first brands to partner with Gore-Tex and makes the blue outer shell jacket Chris wears when he reaches the summit.
1980S
We expand our business to create garments for various service industries, enabling Britain to go to work.
1985
Central TV commissions a waxed cotton jacket for the actor Michael Elphick for his title role in the drama series Boon.
1986
The Princess Royal visits the factory in Silverdale.
1989
Belstaff secures contracts with the Ministry of Defence and one of Britain’s largest police authorities.
1990S
IN THE FACE OF CHALLENGES, WE CONTINUE TO CREATE AND INNOVATE.
The recession hits hard. Escalating costs force the factories in Longton and Silverdale to close.
Bold sportswear dominates 90s fashion and pop culture. As detailed in a catalogue from our archives, Belstaff sport jackets and riding suits embodied this aesthetic, while harnessing temperature-regulating technology.
2000S
The Trialmaster becomes a pop-culture icon.
2004
Belstaff is purchased from James Halstead Group by Mallenottis
2005
The Trialmaster Panther is introduced. Made from hand-waxed leather it is a luxurious update to the classic Trialmaster
2006
Kate Moss stars in our Autumn/Winter campaign.
2008
A brown leather Trialmaster is worn by Brad Pitt in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.
2014
David Beckham curates a capsule collection ‘Beckham’ for Belstaff.
2020S
2023
The reimagined Regent Street flagship opens to the public, designed by studio Specific Generic.
2024
Belstaff’s 100-year anniversary, celebrating a century of outerwear excellence
and moto innovation.
THE SPIRIT OF THE PHOENIX
First introduced as a marker of quality on our definitive Trialmaster in the 1950s, the phoenix icon has become a badge of honour for our community. Shaped by the independent spirits who have worn it throughout our history, it is no longer just a marker of craftsmanship – it represents our desire to do things differently.
EXPLORE OUR ARCHIVES
In honour of our centenary year, we showcased our archives in our hometown of Stoke-on-Trent. Take the virtual tour here.