Herno was founded in 1948 in Lesa (Piedmont, Italy) by Giuseppe Marenzi and his wife Alessandra Diana. The name comes from the Erno River, which flows into Lake Maggiore, reflecting the label's close connection to the water. Originally, they specialized in water-repellent raincoats, using cotton treated with castor oil salvaged from World War II – a testament to their ingenuity and functional design.

In the 1950s, Herno expanded its product range to include other garments such as handwoven cashmere coats. International expansion began in the 1960s with boutiques in Japan (Osaka, Tokyo), followed by operations in the USA in the early 1980s. During this period, Herno frequently produced for other luxury brands and established itself as a respected player in the fashion world.

Herno has always combined traditional craftsmanship with technical innovation. Materials such as lightweight nylon, down fillings, and special techniques like double-face construction ensure elegant, functional garments without visible seams. The brand places great emphasis on quality and sustainable practices, such as using down made from food production byproducts.

Today, Herno is a globally recognized luxury outerwear brand, generating approximately 70% of its revenue from exports. After a period of reduced presence in the 1990s, the brand was repositioned and has experienced continuous growth ever since. Under the leadership of Claudio Marenzi, Herno has further developed its international presence and stands for timeless style, technical functionality, and Italian design.