A Year of Artistry, Learning, and Warmth
As the new year begins, it feels good to pause and reflect on the people, experiences, and collaborations that made 2025 so meaningful.
At Manitobah, every piece we create, from moccasins and mukluks to cozy accessories, carries a story, a connection, and a little bit of warmth that goes beyond the sole. Last year was all about learning from incredible Indigenous artists, working alongside them, and supporting them every step of the way — from product development to marketing and storytelling.
Gustafson Kayak Moccasin – Pattern & Beadwork designed by Shannon Gustafson (Ojibwe)
We were honoured to bring Tracie Jackson's (Diné) vision to life in the Spring collection, celebrating land, home, and community through fresh designs and colours. Gabriel Frey (Passamaquoddy) shared his wisdom through his woven sandal collection, teaching us the tradition and care that comes from weaving and basket-making. Shannon Gustafson (Ojibwe) brought her floral patterns and beadwork designs to moccasins and accessories, turning each piece into a living expression of culture and story.
Musquon Slide designed by Gabriel Frey (Passamaquoddy)
Lauren Good Day (Arikara, Hidatsa, Blackfeet and Plains Cree) created unforgettable moments with record-breaking sell-outs of the Modern Moc Chukka, while Jamie Okuma (Luiseno, Shoshone-Bannock, Wailaki, Okinawan) joined us for a special collaboration, bringing her artistry to the stage as the first Indigenous artist to show at NYFW. Kaija Heitland (Métis) taught us the beauty of dance and delicate embroidery designs. Jamie Gentry (Kwakwaka'wakw) reminded us of the lessons and wisdom that come from time spent on the land. Arianna Lauren (Coast Salish) shared tattoo practices, deep care for traditional designs and friendships, and Ocean Kiana (Nishinaabe) brought her florals and the comforting feeling of home to her mukluk collaboration. Learn more on our 2025 Artist Series page.
The Jamie Okuma Modern Moccasin
Our "Walking in Two Worlds" Crystal Series showcased the stunning colours and beadwork designs by Heather Dickson (Tlingit, Nuxalk, Tagish), showcasing the beauty of traditional and modern worlds. Her storytelling brought together more than 21 Indigenous brands, creating a platform to amplify voices, creativity, and artistry across communities.
Walking in Two Worlds Mukluk in Black and Oak
We also want to send love to filmmakers, photographers and directors like Loren Waters (Kiowa/Cherokee), Robert Hunter (Blackfeet/Shoshone-Paiute), Mato Wayuhi (Oglala Lakota), and every other creative we had the honour of working with this year. Your vision, talent, and care made every product, collaboration, and experience so much richer.
Loren & Robert on set with Jamie Gentry.
Loren & Robert on set with Arianna Lauren.
Manitobah Storyboot School continued to be a place where knowledge is passed hand to hand, teaching traditional moccasin, mukluk, and gauntlet making. And the Indigenous Market, our platform where artists receive 100% of profits from handmade work, let us celebrate and support artists while sharing warmth, craft, and culture with communities near and far.
Manitobah Storyboot School workshop held at Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto
None of this happens alone. It's made possible by our dedicated team, trusted partners, and the wonderful customers who walked alongside us this year – for choosing handmade, supporting Indigenous creativity, and helping us bring warmth into homes everywhere.
At Manitobah, our work isn't just about making boots or slippers. It's relational, interconnected, and grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing. Every stitch, every design, every collaboration ripples outward, creating meaningful change that lasts beyond a single season. Read more about the artists and collaborations that have helped shape Manitobah in our Artist Series Archive.
As we step into 2026, we carry these lessons forward. Guided by creativity, care, and community, we're excited to keep making pieces that bring comfort, warmth, and connection – for you, for artists, and for the stories we share together.
Thank you for walking with us.
