Hector Riccione – 50 Years of Italian Craftsmanship | Story of the Original Indianinos
Since 1976 — A 50-Year Journey
In 2026 we celebrate an extraordinary milestone: 50 years of passion, craftsmanship and unmistakable style. Half a century that has transformed the vision of an Argentine artisan into a fashion phenomenon recognised across Europe. A story that continues, step by step, with the same authentic spirit as always.
Hector's story begins in 1976 in Riccione, on the Adriatic Riviera. An artisan and designer of Argentine origin, with a deep knowledge of leatherwork, he opens his first workshop here with a clear vision from the very start: to combine artisan tradition, material research and a personal style capable of expressing a boundless passion for adventure, horses and freedom.
Through the 1970s and 80s, Hector's creations begin to make their mark thanks to the quality of the leathers and entirely handcrafted production. Bags, belts, sandals, clogs and boots are made with carefully selected materials and a style that draws from the country western and motorcycle worlds. The Riccione shop quickly becomes a reference point for enthusiasts and many figures from the worlds of entertainment and music. The dedication to quality remains an absolute constant: Hector personally oversees every stage of production, from selecting the leathers to experimenting with new colours and finishes. For the most daring creations, exotic skins such as python, crocodile and stingray are also used.
The true turning point comes with the birth of what will become the brand's signature model: the Indianino. The idea stems from a transformative experience: during a trip to Québec, Hector wears the boots of indigenous peoples for the first time and lives in close contact with a local community. On his return, the desire to share that feeling of freedom is so strong that it drives him to recreate those boots, personalising them with his own style and adapting them to European culture.
The addition of an internal wedge — a stroke of genius — brings femininity and comfort, sealing the Indianino's success well beyond Italian borders. Over time, beloved variations emerge such as the "Traforato" and the "Lacci" model, followed by collections featuring micro-studs, pearls, crystals and precious materials. In Spain, especially in Ibiza, the trend of the "coordinato" takes hold: boots paired with bags and belts in the same leather and colours — a total and instantly recognisable style statement. The Indianino has become over time the most produced artisan boot of the post-war era, a phenomenon that Hector has always regarded with pride, aware of having created work for countless people and having influenced an entire culture of Italian craftsmanship.
Alongside the Indianino, another detail is born — one destined to become its hallmark: a leather label stitched onto the heel of the boots, bearing the Hector logo and the phone number of the Riccione shop. A simple yet brilliant idea that makes every pair instantly recognisable and tells the story of the deep bond between the brand and the city where it was born — an inseparable bond that gives the company its very name. Thanks to Hector Riccione, the city's name has travelled across Europe, drawing clients and enthusiasts to the historic shops on the Riviera, where the entire collection is still produced today.
Hector Riccione continues to uphold the same philosophy that made it famous: quality materials, handcrafted techniques passed down through the years and freedom of style. The collections maintain their original spirit — boots, bags, belts and accessories made with premium leathers, where tradition and creativity meet with every season. The direct relationship with customers remains a fundamental pillar: social media has become the new space to listen, engage and reward the community with special promotions.
The story of Hector Riccione is the story of an artisan, a city and a style that has crossed generations without losing its identity. A story that continues, with the same passion as always.