Family-owned Kamik stands out for its commitment to local production, recycling and innovation in the manufacture of its boots and shoes!
Kamik is an iconic Quebec brand, renowned for its expertise in manufacturing snow boots, lined shoes and sandals that combine comfort and versatility. Founded in 1898 in Contrecœur, a village with rich footwear traditions, Kamik has established itself as an essential leader thanks to over 125 years of experience. The company’s history took a decisive turn in 1932 with the takeover by William Cook, marking the start of an exciting adventure that culminated in 1976 with the creation of the brand Kamik – meaning “boots” in Inuktitut. Today, Genfoot, the parent company based in Montreal, employs nearly 400 people at its plants in Quebec, Ontario and New Hampshire. Kamik offers a vast range of over 3,500 boot models, distributed in some 50 countries worldwide. The third-generation management of Genfoot underscores Kamik’s commitment to its roots, while promoting production as close as possible to local communities, 70% of it in North America. Aware of its environmental footprint, Kamik stands out for its sustainable development practices. Since 1991, it has integrated eco-responsible approaches, recycling 90% of the water used in its manufacturing processes and producing 360,000 recycled rubber boots every year. Winter linings, meanwhile, are made from 98% to 100% recycled materials, affirming the company’s commitment to respecting nature while offering quality products. Kamik also relies on technological innovation to perfect its products. In 1993, the company modernized its assembly line, enabling seamstresses to assemble each pair with the utmost care and avoid manufacturing defects. In collaboration with the Centre of Excellence for Textile Technologies (CTT), Kamik has developed a thermal insulation index, guaranteeing the effectiveness of its boots against the rigors of the cold. This commitment to quality and the environment has placed Kamik at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing, while preserving family values across generations.
Read the news: ‘Canadian boot brand Kamik celebrates 125 years of keeping feet cosy’