PEOPLE OF HANNIBAL – Patrick Köppchen
Hatmaker.
Former professional ice hockey player.
Expert.
From Professional Sports to Creative Craftsmanship
Patrick Köppchen stands for personality, integrity, and character - values that have always defined Hannibal.
Many people know Patrick from his career in professional ice hockey, where he competed at the highest level for many years. Today, he expresses his creativity as a hatmaker, driven by a genuine passion for detail, quality, and craftsmanship.
This unique combination is exactly what makes him a part of People of Hannibal.
People with a story.
People with style.
People who follow their own path.
We recently spoke with Patrick about style, craftsmanship, and inspiration -and about how a creative collaboration grew into a genuine friendship.
Patrick, do you remember when and where you first discovered Hannibal?
“Of course I remember. I had just moved to Munich in 2021 and was exploring my new neighborhood when I noticed your store. Fashion has always fascinated me, so there was no way I could simply walk past Hannibal.”
Do you remember what your first Hannibal piece was?
“Absolutely - and very clearly. It was the Hoger trousers, which unfortunately are no longer part of your collection, together with a matching shirt featuring a cut-on stand collar. I still enjoy wearing that outfit today.”
From professional athlete to hatmaker - how did that happen?
“After an injury in 2019 and a long rehabilitation period, I eventually realized that I would have to end my career as a professional ice hockey player. Of course, that was a major turning point, but at the same time it was the moment when I began focusing more intensely on my second passion: fashion. Style and clothing had always been an important part of my life.
The decisive inspiration came from my former business partner, Gabriel. He attended a hat-making workshop with Nuriel Molcho in Vienna, and from that experience the idea of creating our own hat label was born. Shortly afterward, I traveled to Australia for four weeks. During a road trip, I met a hatmaker there who taught me the craft, and with her I made my first six hats. That was where I learned the fundamentals of hatmaking - and where this entire journey truly began.”
Munich is home to many strong brands. What makes Hannibal special to you?
“Hannibal is unique to me because the brand stands out in a very subtle way while offering exceptional quality. I’m not a fan of heavily branded labels - with Hannibal, you recognize the clothing through its cuts, lines, and silhouette.
The fits are perfectly aligned with my personal style, and the fabrics are truly something special. The quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail are all on an exceptionally high level. Another thing I appreciate is that the clothing doesn’t just work in the moment - it still feels relevant and timeless years later.
What stands out most to me, however, is the flexibility. Together with your team, I can adapt pieces to my own ideas and preferences. This combination of quality, craftsmanship, and individuality is what makes Hannibal so special to me.”
How would you describe Hannibal to someone who has never heard of the brand?
“Fantastic cuts, unique fabric quality, and craftsmanship that you can feel immediately. No matter the occasion, you can wear any piece and always feel perfectly dressed. Sometimes casual, sometimes elegant, but never overdone. That balance is what makes Hannibal special to me.”
If you had to estimate, how many Hannibal suits, outfits, or special pieces have you collected over the years?
“My goal now is actually to wear only Hannibal. When I checked recently, I already owned 14 T-shirts. In addition to that, I have three bespoke suits, two ready-to-wear suits, around eight pairs of trousers, several sweaters, and quite a few other special pieces. Over the years, the collection has grown considerably.”