Our Story

SOREL’s story began in a setting where resilience, resourcefulness, and determination were essential for survival. Emerging in the early 1960s amidst Arctic storms and bitter cold, the brand was shaped not by passing trends but by direct engagement with harsh natural conditions. From its earliest days, SOREL stood for more than just footwear—it represented a commitment to performance, reliability, and durability in environments where failure was not an option. In 1962, amid ice and isolation, SOREL established itself as a brand defined by strength and endurance, earning the trust of those who relied on it to face extreme conditions.

The creation of the original Caribou boot exemplified this ethos and became a defining symbol of winter performance. Designed to withstand severe cold and long treks, the Caribou provided explorers with the protection and comfort necessary to navigate uncharted Arctic regions. Historic expeditions to the North Pole were completed in SOREL boots, cementing the brand’s reputation as a companion for adventure and exploration. When the first woman reached the North Pole over land, she did so wearing SOREL, further reinforcing the brand’s association with courage, innovation, and possibility.

SOREL’s roots trace back to a Canadian rubber manufacturer specializing in military and industrial-grade footwear. This expertise informed the creation of boots that combined premium leather uppers with handcrafted rubber shells, establishing a standard for durability, protection, and longevity. The commitment to performance and quality continues to define the brand’s identity decades later.

As outdoor sports evolved, SOREL adapted to meet new demands. Caribou boots became popular among early snowboarders for their warmth and traction, while collaborations with pioneering athletes led to the first snowboard-specific boots, merging technical performance with innovative design. This period marked a shift toward footwear that integrated functionality with thoughtful aesthetics.

SOREL has consistently balanced practicality with style. Signature elements such as waterproof designs, rugged outsoles, and precise stitching were refined without sacrificing utility, producing footwear that offers protection and comfort while maintaining a bold visual identity. Over time, the brand elevated craftsmanship through premium materials, sculptural design, and careful attention to detail, enabling its products to resonate in both outdoor and urban fashion contexts.

A notable moment in SOREL’s evolution was a mile-long fashion presentation in New York City, which transformed city streets into a runway and showcased that high-performance footwear could also be stylish. From snow-covered urban avenues to remote mountain resorts, SOREL has become a symbol of practical style, embraced by both adventurers and trendsetters.

Collaborations with designers and cultural institutions further reinforced SOREL’s reputation, blending modern aesthetics with technical integrity while staying true to functional roots. Today, the brand continues to draw inspiration from wilderness landscapes while thriving in urban environments. Classic silhouettes like the Caribou are reimagined with contemporary perspectives, reflecting innovation, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of exploration. SOREL remains a brand defined by heritage, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of what lies beyond the horizon.