Vancouver’s favourite boots? Blundstone celebrates 30 years in Canada

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If Vancouver had an official footwear, it would probably be Blundstone.

Founded in 1870, the Australian footwear brand officially launched in Canada in 1994. Since then, the recognizable pull-on boots have become a go-to shoe across the country.

“The boots get better with age,” Ian Heaps, CEO of Blundstone Canada, says proudly. In honour of the brand’s 30th anniversary in the Canada, we caught up with Heaps to learn more.

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Q: For those who aren’t familiar, what is Blundstone? 

A: The legendary Australian work boot brand from Australia. Based at the end of the world, in rugged Tasmania.

Blundstone first dipped its toes in the Canadian footwear market in 1994, identifying a need for dry, comfortable, all-season footwear of the sort the company has been making since its founding in 1870, by boot maker John Blundstone.

Blundstone Canada first introduced the Original boots to the Canadian market, unisex styles #500 and #509. There are now over 70 styles sold in Canada. First available through the Australian Boot Company in Vancouver and Toronto, Blundstone Canada now has a strong online presence and more than 500 footwear retailers across Canada.

Q: What makes it unique?

A: The original Chelsea boot. Amazing durability, we continue to hear from customers who say their Blundstone boots have lasted longer than any other footwear they have ever worn. Thick, quality leather that is designed to last.

Extremely durable outsoles and XRD® Technology that is specially designed to absorb 90% of the impact from walking, so our bodies don’t have to absorb it.

Q: How, if at all, as the brand evolved since it started? 

A: Blundstone’s long-standing commitment to quality and innovation has ensured the brand is always evolving. This is how it survived the Great Depression and both world wars.

Always investing in new technology like our partnership with renowned sole maker Vibram and adding new series like the Women’s heel ranging from a 1/4-inch to 3-inch heel with the same comfort you’d find across all our ranges.

Throughout these developments there is always the goal of comfort, durability, good value and a goal of making the business more sustainable.

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Q: Is there anything that might surprise people to learn about the brand?

A: That it is still proudly owned by a Tasmanian family. Their solid (environmental, social, and governance) plans for the future — ethical and transparent conduct, social governance, and focus on sustainability.

Q: I feel like Blundstones are almost an unofficial footwear choice for Canadians, especially on the west coast. What makes the brand such a good fit here?

A: Lasting comfort. No seams over the top of your foot, and injection-moulded construction so no places for the rain to seep in. Simple, practical, comfortable and durable. Some customers wear them every day of the year, regardless of the weather.

Q: I’ve heard Blundstone is giving Canadian consumers the opportunity to design their own boots. What can you share about this? 

A: From Oct. 21 through to Nov. 24, consumers can win the chance to design your city’s signature boot in a global campaign called Well Worn. A well worn pair of Blundstone is a story well told. Every mark, scuff and scrape you leave is another chapter. In 25 words or less, Blundstone wants to know what stories your boots would tell. From all submissions, one lucky Canadian will be selected to work with the design and innovation team at Blundstone to tell the well worn stories of their city through a limited-edition boot series. Learn more Wellwornblundstone.com.

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Q: Lastly, what’s next?

A: Ongoing product developments in both our leisure and safety ranges. New outsoles with eco-friendly materials. Thermal CSA work and safety boots, with insulation and fully waterproof.

Aharris@postmedia.com

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