From Workshop to Wear

This blog excerpt was taken from our store: Moccasins Canada. To read the entire article please click here.

When was the last time you bought superior-quality, locally-made footwear and experienced great customer service with prompt shipping, all in one transaction?

Welcome to Moccasins Canada, a Division of The Brown Bear, in Westport, Ontario, Canada!

We are a three-generation family business that is pleased to guide you through your purchase of authentic leather moccasins, taking you from workshop to wear. Hiawatha brand moccasins have been a 5-star customer favourite for years. They’re handcrafted by Bastien Industries, an Indigenous-owned company on the Wendake Reserve, in Quebec, Canada. With an easeful, yet classic vibe, Bastien’s moccasins capture the skill and techniques of generations of artisans.

“The moccasins shipped lightning fast... I love that they are buttery soft leather and obviously made with the upmost of care.” - Evan D.

Traditional moccasins are made with wild leathers, like these indoor moose hide mocs. Moose leather is supple, but strong; it sometimes bears the markings of the animal’s life in the wild, which is considered desirable and authentic. The natural flexibility of the hide means that moccasins will take on the shape of your foot over time, and conform to your personal footprint.

“I’ve always worn this style and I can say these are the absolute best. The craftsmanship is fantastic.” - Doug

Each shoe is carefully cut from moose hide and assembled, double-stitched, and finished by hand. The suede interior is butter-soft against the skin, with a pillowy foam insole cushioned between two layers of of leather. Adjustable rawhide lacing runs through the shoe, around the back of the heel to customize the fit, and the puckered vamp with criss-crossed stitching gives this moccasin its timeless look.

“I’ve been wearing moccasins for a long time, but the thing I always wanted was something local and made with love... knowing that these are handcrafted and made by local people with local material means a lot to me.” - Kent

Black leather Hiawatha mocs are a classic for indoor wear, evoking a subtle and simple elegance. The grain of the moose hide adds visual interest with texture and character. The soft leather outsole makes for a gentle step in the house, perfect for early mornings or late nights. Over time, the moccasins will soften even further; the longer you wear your pair, the better they’ll feel. It’s as if they were made especially for you. And maybe they were.
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