Our Story

SOREL’s journey began in an environment where survival demanded ingenuity, strength, and endurance. Emerging in the early 1960s amid Arctic storms and relentless cold, the brand was forged not by trends or fleeting ideas, but through direct engagement with the natural world. From its inception, SOREL represented more than footwear; it was a tool for confronting extremes, a symbol of determination and reliability in conditions where performance mattered above all. In 1962, amid ice, wind, and isolation, SOREL established its identity as a brand built on resilience, designed to endure and proven by the challenges faced by those who relied on it.

This deep connection with the elements was embodied in the creation of the original Caribou boot, which would become the cornerstone of the brand and an icon of winter footwear. Engineered to handle severe cold and extended treks, the Caribou earned the trust of explorers venturing into unmapped Arctic territories, where comfort and protection were essential for survival. Historic overland journeys to the North Pole were completed wearing SOREL boots, cementing the brand’s role in human exploration and achievement. Later, when a female explorer reached the North Pole from land, she did so in SOREL boots, reinforcing the association of the brand with courage, innovation, and possibility.

SOREL’s performance heritage is rooted in its origins with a Canadian rubber manufacturer known for military and industrial-grade products. This expertise led to the development of winter footwear that combined premium leather uppers with durable handcrafted rubber shells, establishing a standard of protection, quality, and longevity. That promise of durability remains central to SOREL’s identity, guiding the brand through decades of growth and evolution.

As outdoor sports and culture developed, SOREL adapted in tandem. Caribou boots were embraced by early snowboarders for warmth and grip, but innovation accelerated when the brand collaborated with pioneering athletes to redefine performance footwear. This partnership resulted in the first snowboard-specific boot, blending advanced materials with durable construction, marking a shift that combined technical performance with thoughtful design.

SOREL has continually balanced function with aesthetic expression. Iconic design features—waterproof silhouettes, rugged outsoles, and precise stitching—have been refined rather than compromised, creating footwear that provides protection and comfort while maintaining a bold, recognizable style. Over time, the brand elevated its craftsmanship through premium materials, sculptural forms, and meticulous attention to detail, allowing its products to gain relevance in both outdoor and fashion contexts.

A defining moment came when SOREL staged a mile-long fashion presentation in New York City, transforming city streets into a runway and demonstrating that performance footwear could coexist with high fashion. From snow-covered urban streets to elite mountain resorts, SOREL became a symbol of practical style, worn by adventurers and trendsetters alike.

Collaborations with designers and cultural institutions further reinforced SOREL’s position, merging contemporary design with technical integrity. These projects maintained the brand’s functional roots while introducing modern aesthetics to core silhouettes.

Today, SOREL continues to draw inspiration from the wilderness while thriving in urban environments. Iconic designs like the Caribou are reinterpreted with a modern perspective, reflecting innovation, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of exploration. This is a brand shaped by resilience, grounded in heritage, and driven by a continual pursuit of what lies beyond the horizon.