Hedgehog: The Pinnacle of Multifunctional Dryers

Revolutionizing Gear Drying with Innovative Norwegian Design

When Bjorn Holte faced the daily struggle of drying wet gloves and boots in Norway's challenging climate, he embarked on a mission to transform this mundane task. The result is Hedgehog, a product series that redefines the drying experience. Holte, alongside designers Lachlan Dunn and Magne Bolstad, has crafted a solution that not only dries but also organizes sports and outdoor gear with unprecedented effectiveness. The Hedgehog series boasts a sleek design, a high-powered fan with versatile modes, and ionic technology to eliminate odors and bacteria, all while prioritizing fire safety and sustainability.

The innovation behind Hedgehog lies in its unique fan system, developed in collaboration with NTNU's Hydro Power Laboratory engineers. By adopting technology akin to optimized water turbines, the team has created an energy-efficient fan that delivers air at a rate that dramatically cuts down drying times. This advanced system can produce 105 cubic meters of hot air per hour, with an energy consumption range that adjusts to the user's needs, from a minimal 35 watts to a robust 750 watts.

Practicality is at the core of Hedgehog's design. The dryer's dimensions are tailored for ease of use and storage, with models that compactly fit for shipping, ensuring a global reach. The user interface is intuitive, allowing for simple adjustments to airflow, heat, and the ionic odor remover setting. The inclusion of various extensions and individual on/off switches for each steel spike ensures that air is directed precisely where needed, enhancing the drying process.

From its inception in 2019 to its Nordic retail launch in 2021, and the subsequent release of the odor-removing Ionic i3 version in 2023, Hedgehog has been a testament to perseverance and innovation. The design team's rigorous testing has proven that Hedgehog dries gear five times faster than its competitors, a claim backed by quantitative and qualitative research.

Overcoming the challenge of merging high-performance technology with an aesthetically pleasing design, Hedgehog has set a new standard for dryers. The team's dedication to creating a product that not only functions exceptionally but also enhances the look of one's home space has resulted in a dryer series that encourages an active lifestyle by minimizing preparation time for outdoor adventures.

With its multifunctional capabilities, Hedgehog stands as a beacon of design and technological excellence. It has been recognized with the Bronze A' Home Appliances Design Award in 2024, a testament to its contribution to improving quality of life and its embodiment of best practices in art, science, design, and technology. Hedgehog's patented turbo technology and ionic system, along with its energy-efficient and safety-conscious design, have not only earned it accolades but also secured its place as a trademarked and patented innovation in major global markets.