It’s that time of year when our floors feel chilly. And our feet protest. Time to slip on some slippers. Sheepskin slippers are a bit of luxury for your tootsies. Think about it, sheep always look warm. All that fluffy wool is the secret. Your feet could be like sheep, surrounded by fluffy wool in a pair of Garneau slippers, all warm and comfortable thanks to Garneau & Co. This is a Canadian company. Since 1977, Canadians have slipped their feet into Francois Garneau’s designs. His original research led him to New Zealand and Australia for the highest quality sheepskin. Why does sheepskin work so well in slippers? Here’s the answer.
As a medical aid, sheepskin is used to reduce the chances of pressure spots or bedsores for anyone unfortunate enough to have to sit or lie down for extended periods. It’s also used under saddles to protect horses. Sheepskin is effective because the natural wool fibers are dense, springy and soft, wicking moisture away from the skin while still supporting weight. The kinky fibers trap and release air for good circulation. There are natural anti-bacterial properties in the wool as well.
Sheepskin works the same way for your feet. Natural wicking of the wool keeps your feet comfy, particularly if you wear them without socks. The wool batting softly molds to the shape of your foot for a fabulous personal fit. The insulating properties keep feet at the right temperature as air can still circulate in the fluff. On the outside or the sheepskin is leather. It’s a soft yet tough material available in smooth or suede finishes. Sheepskin is sturdy so it takes a long time to wear out these slippers.
As with many family owned manufacturing businesses, the succession plan for Garneau involved Francois’s daughter, Noémi. She says she “was born with slippers on”. As the President of Garneau & Co, Noémi continues to promote innovation and excellence in the workshop. She has an artistic background, and firmly believes art and beauty can coexist with form and function. “Entirely handmade, each Garneau sheepskin slipper is a work of foot art that brings together timeless style, comfort and quality”- is the mission statement straight from the Garneau & Co website.
The most popular slippers for both men and women are the slip-on and the low boot. Both are available in a wide variety of trendy and classic colours. The low boot has the advantage of a removable (and replaceable) wool insert. Inserts are also sold for winter or work boots, for both men and women.
Sheepskin slippers made in Canada for Canadian winters? Your feet will tell you that’s a win from Garneau & Co.
Did you know? Sheepskin facts- most sheepskin comes from New Zealand or Australia, from Merino sheep.