Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Can I wear moccasins and mukluks if I am not Indigenous?

Absolutely! We make our moccasins and mukluks for everyone. By purchasing from us, you are participating in cultural appreciation, not cultural appropriation. When you purchase from Manitobah, you are directly supporting Indigenous people and celebrating Indigenous culture in an authentic, meaningful way that supports us in our vision to create positive impact in Indigenous communities.

Where are your products made?

To make our brand more accessible, to support our social impact initiatives, and to allow us to compete with other global fashion brands, we produce our products in international ethical partner factories.

Our Indigenous Market items are handcrafted in Canada and the US by Indigenous artisans. The Indigenous Market artisans receive 100% of proceeds from the sale of their products.

Our factory partners that support our growing product line go through an in-depth 3rd party inspection and internal Social Compliance Audit. These high standards are continually monitored and respected. To further ensure worker safety, sustainability, and labour practices, we've become officially certified as a B Corporation and strive to continue manufacturing our products in a transparent and sustainable manner.

We are proud of our manufacturing policies and our ability to build capacity globally. We believe that our success as an Indigenous business has been due to our willingness to walk forward while honouring our past. If you'd like to know more about our production process, or want to know where a specific product is made, please feel free to contact us with any other questions you have.

What materials do you use?

Fur: We use rabbit fur for all our fur styles. All the natural materials we use, including fur, are by-products of the meat industry of mainly Asia and Europe. We pride ourselves in taking material that is considered "waste" and utilizing it to make our mukluks and moccasins, just like Indigenous peoples have always done.

Leather & Suede: For most of our products, we use cowhide for the suede/leather, and exceptions (such as deerskin or pigskin) are otherwise noted. Our leather is full-grain, which is extremely durable and water-resistant. Over time, full-grain leather develops a rich, dark patina that highlights the natural characteristics of the material. Most of our leather and suede materials are not treated and are not considered water proof. See "Waterproof Technology" section for more details about our waterproof styles.

Deerskin: Deerskin leather is a gift from nature. Soft, supple yet durable, deerskin is among the finest leathers in the world. Markings such as scratches and wrinkles enhance the beauty and are your assurance of superior quality. Deerskin is a more delicate material compared to cowhide suede/leather. Please note that we are unable to ship any Deerskin products to the U.S. without the purchase of a special importation license from the U.S Fish & Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement.

Sheepskin: Most of our mukluks and some moccasins are made with Sheepskin Shearling in the foot bed. Sheepskin soothes the skin and caresses the foot, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. These unique insulating qualities of sheepskin have been known for generations.

Sheepskin also assists in creating the best possible fit, it is made to mold to the shape of your foot creating a comfortable custom fit. Most of our products have a zero drop, which means there is no arch support.

Vibram Sole:A Vibram sole is the world's leading high-performance rubber sole. It can withstand the effects of cold and high-abrasion urban environments. Our partnership with Vibram allowed us to use their 70 years of history and a rugged TC1 compound to provide a durable, low profile sole that could also serve as a canvas for an Indigenous story.

Crepe: Some of our footwear is made with a crepe sole. Crepe is a natural material that's made from latex tapped from trees like the Pará rubber tree. This type of sole is suitable for indoor and light outdoor use, but is not suitable for everyday urban use and will not withstand highly abrasive environments.

Waterproof Technology: We offer select styles of adult mukluks that are waterproof and both styles of children's mukluks are waterproof. These styles are denoted online as "Waterproof" and can also be found in our Waterproof Boots collection. Manitobah conducts rigorous waterproof and temperature testing using a minimum 50,000 flex standard. Our AuthenTEC Waterproof System is inspired by pine pitch and spruce gum, the traditional waterproofing materials originally used for waterproofing mukluks.

Dyes:We use water based aniline dyes, which have been rigorously tested and are not harmful in any way. It is normal for a bit of colour bleeding to occur (like your favorite pair of jeans) but will stop after the first few wears.

What is your fur policy?

For thousands of years Indigenous people have been using leathers and furs to create beautiful and functional footwear and we are proud to carry on this tradition. We buy furs from tanneries, who buy them from a variety of farmers who sell the meat for food. We are essentially taking a material that would otherwise be considered "waste" and utilizing it to make our moccasins and mukluks like Indigenous peoples have always done. We buy furs from tanneries that buy them from a variety of farmers who sell the meat for food.

The best way to be mindful of the conditions that the animals are kept in is based on the quality of the fur. A healthy fur is the sign of a better treated animal; healthy fur is lush and full, and it wouldn't be patched-together to hide defects. We've become experts in recognizing great fur and we're intent on making sure nothing gets wasted.

California residents: Please note that due to recent changes in state law, we are prohibited from shipping any products containing genuine fur to California addresses. Faux fur products are still available to residents of California.

What size should I order?

Please refer to the sizing information on each product page - footwear that is not true to size will be noted. For general sizing information, please click here to view our size guide page.

Product Information

Are Manitobah mukluks waterproof?

Manitobah makes a variety of products that match Canada's diverse climates. We offer select styles of adult and child mukluks and boots that are waterproof. Those styles are tagged online as waterproof and can be seen in our Waterproof Boots collection. How do you clean your waterproof suede boots? See our cleaning & care guide below.

The rest of our footwear is constructed with natural suede and leather which are not sealed and should not be considered waterproof. We recommend treating them with a leather/suede protector to help with water resistance and general protection. Non-waterproof material is porous - these natural materials need to breathe in order to be effective in extreme cold. Indigenous people have been surviving in the coldest climates for thousands of years using this very wisdom.

Why do my waterproof mukluks feel damp inside?

This is common to all well-sealed waterproof winter boots, our waterproof styles are not as breathable as our non-waterproof mukluks. Some customers have reported perspiration, which can feel cold or even be mistaken for water seepage. For damp mukluks, dab them with paper towel inside and let them air-dry. To avoid this try wearing a wool sock. Wool will allow your feet to breathe and keep them insulated without overheating. Layered socks, wool socks and drying the boots out regularly will definitely help.

How can I tell if my waterproof mukluks are leaking?

A great way to check if you are experiencing perspiration is by testing them! First, dab them with paper towel inside and let them air-dry. Once they are completely dry, test them by submerging in water up to 4 inches deep for a minute or two with paper towel in the footbed. Our waterproof styles are completely sealed so you are able to submerge them in a tub or container of water without any leaking. If the paper towel gets wet during this test, you have a defective pair which we will replace under the warranty - just send photos of the waterproof test and the damp paper towel and we can get you set up.

What is the temperature rating on your shoes?

An important note is that although we do our very best to ensure that all rating information is accurate to real-world conditions, ratings are provided for active situations. Active use conditions means that the boot will stay warm in stated temperatures where it is being used in an activity, like dog walking or shoveling snow. In conditions where you are stationary for long periods of time, like standing at a bus stop or extended sitting, the boot may not provide complete warmth in sub-zero temperatures.

Our sheepskin-lined mukluks and boots are considered some of the warmest winter footwear for northern winters and are rated down to -32 degrees Celsius (-25 degrees Fahrenheit). Partnering with Vibram has also allowed us to design a sole that allows your foot to bend. Research indicates that flexible soles promote proper foot movement and blood circulation to your toes. This means that in cold dry weather, our mukluks will allow your feet to stay warmer than almost anything on the market.

Although not all of our mukluks and boots undergo the rigorous temperature rating testing process, when it has been rated then that rating will be noted on the product page.

Do Manitobah mukluks have a left or right foot?

Some of our mukluks and natural soled moccasins are not built on a traditional foot last so there is no left or right foot. This method has been used on Indigenous footwear for thousands of years. Over time the natural materials will form to your foot and allow you to have a custom fit. Moccasins with the turtle vibram sole and all of our kids mukluks do have a left and right foot.

Will they stretch?

Your traditional mukluks and moccasins should feel snug when you first get them. Because of the natural materials used, they will stretch up to about half a size with wear to form a very comfortable, custom fit. Unlike a standard boot or shoe, it is normal for your toes to touch the end inside, but they should not be curled up or in pain.

*Note - please do not try and stretch them out if you think you may have the wrong size. If your pair is not comfortable enough to walk in, you should exchange for a bigger size. Returns must be in unworn condition, so wearing them around the house for too long may result in the return being denied.

What are your natural product limitations?

Fur: Fur sheds over time. Frequent friction will cause the fur to shed much faster. Fur should not be pulled on or subject to abrasive chemicals or salts. It can be spot cleaned with a non-abrasive soap, but otherwise it has natural oils to protect it from most elements. We do not recommend spraying your fur with sealants or synthetic sprays.

Crepe: Crepe is a soft, natural rubber. Crepe soles should only be used for indoor and light outdoor use. They are not intended for everyday urban use and cannot withstand highly abrasive environments.

Non-waterproof Suede & Leather: These natural materials are soft and porous and absorb water. Please treat your mukluks and moccasins appropriately to protect them from the rain and snow. We recommend using a protective spray to help protect our suede and leather products. Do not spray the fur areas because they contain natural protective oils. The best tool for ensuring the long life of your mukluks is diligence. If they get wet, make sure they are dried thoroughly and spot cleaned. Dark dyes may also tend to run, just like your favorite denim.

Pompoms, ties & straps: Please be careful with your pompoms, ties and straps and do not pull hard on them. It is best to tie your mukluks once in a good knot than to keep retying them.

How do I care for my Manitobah footwear?

Protection: Use a silicone-based leather/suede protector. Do not spray fur, as it contains natural protective oils. We offer a protecting spray as part of our recommended Care Kit.

To Clean: Leather can be cleaned using a gentle soap and soft brush. For salt, wipe down with a damp cloth. Even if they have been sprayed, salt is corrosive and can cause damage.

To Dry: Once wet, allow your footwear to dry naturally.

Wear: Never pull fur when putting on or removing boot, fur sheds over time and frequent friction will cause the fur to shed much faster. Cross laces over before tightening to avoid tearing leather eyeholes.

Storage: When ready to store them for the season you should clean them, allow them to dry and then pack them away in a sealed container away from heat, moisture and pets (a plastic storage tote works great.) You can also use a pool noodle or something similar in the shaft to keep them upright during storage.

Purchase & Checkout

What payment types do you accept?

Canada: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Interac, JCB, Union Pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Shop Pay, PayPal, Sezzle Payments, Manitobah Gift Cards

USA & International (may vary by location): Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Elo, JCB, Union Pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Shop Pay, Meta Pay, Venmo, PayPal, Sezzle Payments, Manitobah Gift Cards

We do not accept COD, Cheques, or Money Orders.

How do your gift cards work?

We sell electronic gift cards on our website which can be found on the last row of our products page, or by searching for "Gift Card". After purchasing an electronic gift card, you will receive an email which you can either print out, or forward to the person you would like to receive the gift.

Please note: Gift cards purchases are non-refundable. If a new order is placed using a gift card and has to be returned, a refund will not be possible. An exchange for an item equal in value of the gift card used must be processed.

How do I use my gift card?

Once you have items added to your cart and would like to apply your gift card, click "Check Out". On the page asking to enter in your shipping address, on the right-hand side of the screen is a spot to enter the gift card number.

Please enter the entire gift card number as it looks on the electronic gift card and press "Apply". The gift card amount will be deducted from your order and you can continue the rest of the checkout process.

If the gift card does not cover the full cost of the order, you will be asked to enter in your credit card information on the last page of the checkout process. If only a portion of the gift card is being used, the remainder will still be valid using the same gift card code.

How do I check the balance on my gift card?

You can see the remaining balance by clicking on the "View your gift card" button in the email that contained the gift card number.

Can I apply a gift card and a promo/discount code in the same order?

Yes. Gift cards and discount codes can be applied to the same order. You can enter both at the checkout screen when you are ready to place your order.

Can I use more than one promo/coupon code during special offers or giveaways?

No. Unless otherwise stated as part of the offer or promotion, discount codes are one use per customer and cannot be combined with limited time on-site pricing promotions or additional codes.

What if my code isn't working?

Please refer to any terms and conditions included with the discount code for specific restrictions, or visit our Terms of Use for more information. Note that some discount codes cannot be combined with any other offer, unless otherwise stated, and discounts cannot be used during limited-time promotions and pricing adjustments (such as Black Friday/Cyber Monday blackout periods, etc.).

If everything appears to be correct and you’re still having issues, please contact our customer service team for assistance.

Shipping & Returns

What shipping methods do you offer?

Check out our Shipping & Returns page here.

What is your manufacturer warranty?

Manitobah prides itself on selling high quality products, it is in this spirit that we approach our craft and support our customers. All Manitobah products are covered by a "Material and Manufacturing Defect Warranty" for a period of 1 year from the date of purchase with the original bill of sale from an authorized dealer. This warranty does not cover excessive wear and tear and/or products that were used outside their intended purpose.

To initiate a warranty claim, send an email to warranty@manitobah.ca and include the following:

• Photos of the affected area and condition of the item
• Proof of purchase: Order Number or Receipt
• Contact information

How do I initiate a return?

Check out our Shipping & Returns page here.

How do I make a return if the retail location is no longer open?

For eligible returns, please contact customer service online at customercare@manitobah.ca. Please note that once a seasonal store has closed, refunds for purchases made by Interac/debit or cash can only be issued in the form of a gift card.

Account Management

How do I stop receiving mailed catalogs?

While we're sorry to see you go, we completely understand! You may request to be removed from our mailing list on our Catalog Removal Request page here.