Karhu began over a century ago in a small workshop in downtown Helsinki, founded by Ab Sportartiklar Oy. The brand’s earliest products included sporting equipment such as javelins and skis, crafted from locally sourced Finnish birch, valued for its lightweight strength and flexibility. In 1920, the company adopted the name Karhu, meaning “Bear” in Finnish, reflecting its strength and national identity.

By the 1950s, Karhu’s reputation for precision and performance naturally evolved into footwear, leading the brand to produce its own running trainers. Today, Karhu trainers are recognised for their heritage in athletic innovation, combining Finnish craftsmanship with performance-driven design rooted in sport history.