Step into Style: The Best Canadian Shoe Brands
When it comes to footwear, Canada is home to some of the most innovative, stylish, and sustainable shoe brands in the world. From Vancouver’s rain-ready sneakers to Montreal’s high-fashion designs, Canadian-made footwear blends quality craftsmanship with ethical values. Whether you’re looking for bold statement pieces, eco-conscious kicks, or luxury boots built for winter, these homegrown brands have you covered.
1. John Fluevog: The Art of Footwear
A true Canadian icon, John Fluevog has been crafting avant-garde shoes since the 1970s. Based in Vancouver, Fluevog’s designs are a mix of retro charm and futuristic flair—think chunky heels, bold colors, and intricate detailing. Each pair is a wearable work of art, often released in limited editions that become collector’s items.
Why We Love Them:
Handmade craftsmanship with a rebellious, artistic edge
Uniquely Canadian—rooted in Vancouver’s Gastown district
A cult following worldwide, yet proudly local
Price Range: 200−500
Where to Buy: Fluevog.com & flagship stores in Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal
2. Poppy Barley: Ethical Luxury
Edmonton-based Poppy Barley is redefining footwear with its commitment to sustainability and fair labor practices. Specializing in made-to-order shoes, the brand minimizes waste while offering timeless designs in premium materials. From sleek ankle boots to sophisticated loafers, Poppy Barley proves that ethical fashion can be luxurious.
Why We Love Them:
Vegetable-tanned leathers and eco-friendly materials
Inclusive sizing (including wide widths)
Transparent pricing and ethical production
Price Range: 200−400
Where to Buy: PoppyBarley.com, Kitsilano store on 4th & Edmonton flagship
3. Native Shoes: Lightweight & Planet-Friendly
Born in Vancouver, Native Shoes is all about fun, functional, and eco-conscious footwear. Their lightweight, machine-washable designs—like the iconic Jefferson slip-on—are made with innovative plant-based materials. Plus, their Remix Project recycles old shoes into playground materials, proving sustainability can be stylish.
Why We Love Them:
100% vegan and designed for easy, breezy comfort
Perfect for travel, errands, or lazy weekends
A commitment to reducing footwear waste
Price Range: 80−150
Where to Buy: NativeShoes.com, 14 Water St in Gastown
4. Vessi: Waterproof Sneakers for Canadian Weather
Vancouver’s Vessi tackled one of Canada’s biggest problems—wet feet—with their 100% waterproof sneakers. Using patented knit technology, their shoes keep you dry without sacrificing breathability or style. Whether you’re biking in the rain or walking through slush, Vessi has become a must-have for Canadians.
Why We Love Them:
Designed and tested in Vancouver (they know rain and snow!)
Lightweight, waterproof, and surprisingly stylish
A hometown hero with global appeal
Price Range: 120−170
Where to Buy: Vessi.com, Metrotown & Richmond Centre
5. Maguire: Minimalist & Modern
Toronto’s Maguire focuses on clean, contemporary designs with a focus on premium materials and comfort. Their Italian-crafted leather shoes are made to last, blending European elegance with Canadian practicality.
Why We Love Them:
Timeless silhouettes that work for work or weekends
High-quality leather and meticulous craftsmanship
A go-to for polished, versatile footwear
Price Range: 250-400
Where to Buy: MaguireFootwear.com
6. Dr. Liza: Comfort Meets Style
Founded by a podiatrist, Dr. Liza combines medical-grade comfort with fashion-forward designs. These shoes are perfect for those who need support without sacrificing style, making them a favorite among professionals and travelers.
Why We Love Them:
Engineered for all-day comfort
Chic designs that don’t look “orthopedic”
A Canadian solution for happy, healthy feet
Price Range: 150−300
Where to Buy: DrLizaShoes.com
7. Aldo & Call It Spring: Affordable Fashion Footwear
Montreal’s Aldo (and its sister brand, Call It Spring) has been a Canadian staple since 1972, offering trendy, accessible footwear for every occasion. From sleek boots to summer sandals, Aldo delivers fast-fashion with a slightly more sustainable edge.
Why We Love Them:
On-trend styles at wallet-friendly prices
Widely available across Canada (and beyond)
Increasing focus on eco-friendly materials
Price Range: 60−150 (Aldo), 40−120 (Call It Spring)
Where to Buy: AldoCanada.com, CallItSpring.com
8. La Canadienne: Winter-Ready Luxury
Specializing in weatherproof boots, La Canadienne is a Montreal-based brand that combines fashion with function. Their leather boots are lined with high-tech insulation and waterproofing, making them a winter essential for style-conscious Canadians.
Why We Love Them:
Designed to withstand harsh Canadian winters
Elegant designs that don’t compromise on warmth
A favorite among urbanites who refuse to sacrifice style for snow
Price Range: 300−600
Where to Buy: LaCanadienne.com, Nordstrom, Holt Renfrew
9. Matt and Nat: Vegan & Chic
A pioneer in vegan fashion, Matt and Nat creates sleek, cruelty-free shoes and accessories. Using recycled materials like plastic bottles and cork, their designs prove that sustainability can be sophisticated.
Why We Love Them:
100% vegan, without compromising on luxury
Bold colors and minimalist designs
A leader in ethical Canadian fashion
Price Range: 150−300
Where to Buy: MattandNat.com, Simons, vegan boutiques
