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The Merrell Story: From Custom Boots to Outdoor Giant

Merrell began its journey in 1981 with a bold idea: to craft high-performance hiking boots that were both accessible and exceptional. The company was founded by former Rossignol executives Clark Matis and John Schweizer, who partnered with Randal Ivan Merrell, a talented bootmaker known for his $500 custom creations. Combining expert craftsmanship with modern production techniques, the trio designed a hiking boot that was rugged, comfortable, and affordable.

The first Merrell boots hit the market in 1983, earning high praise from hikers and Backpacker Magazine, which declared them "the most comfortable and functional boots in North America." That same year, Merrell introduced a women's-specific last to ensure a better fit for female hikers.

By 1986, Merrell had sold its 25,000th pair of boots. That same year, Randy Merrell stepped away to return to his roots in custom bootmaking. The following year, Finnish sports brand Karhu acquired the company, moving production to Asia to lower costs and expand its global reach. By the early 1990s, Merrell had established divisions in Canada, the UK, and Scandinavia, with sales exceeding $10 million annually.

Innovation and Global Reach

The 1995 introduction of Vibram soles to Merrell boots further enhanced durability and traction, cementing the brand’s reputation for innovation. Two years later, Wolverine World Wide acquired Merrell, ushering in a new era of product development. The launch of the Jungle Moc, a casual slip-on shoe with a trail-ready sole, became an instant hit. By 2009, Merrell had sold 10 million pairs of Jungle Mocs worldwide.

By 2006, Merrell had expanded into apparel and accessories, introducing groundbreaking technologies such as M-Select Dry waterproofing and M-Select Warm insulation. The company’s commitment to performance and inclusivity has led it to become a leader in the outdoor industry, with a presence in over 151 countries.

Award-Winning Excellence

In 2022, Merrell was named Brand of the Year at the Footwear News Achievement Awards, recognizing its influence in the industry. Its hiking boots and barefoot running shoes continue to receive top ratings for comfort, durability, and performance.

Merrell remains committed to inclusivity and sustainability, creating products that welcome everyone to the outdoors. Whether you’re tackling a mountain trail, exploring the city, or relaxing in nature, Merrell’s durable, comfortable, and versatile gear is designed to keep you moving forward.

The Merrell Story: From Custom Boots to Outdoor Giant

Merrell began its journey in 1981 with a bold idea: to craft high-performance hiking boots that were both accessible and exceptional. The company was founded by former Rossignol executives Clark Matis and John Schweizer, who partnered with Randal Ivan Merrell, a talented bootmaker known for his $500 custom creations. Combining expert craftsmanship with modern production techniques, the trio designed a hiking boot that was rugged, comfortable, and affordable.

The first Merrell boots hit the market in 1983, earning high praise from hikers and Backpacker Magazine, which declared them "the most comfortable and functional boots in North America." That same year, Merrell introduced a women's-specific last to ensure a better fit for female hikers.

By 1986, Merrell had sold its 25,000th pair of boots. That same year, Randy Merrell stepped away to return to his roots in custom bootmaking. The following year, Finnish sports brand Karhu acquired the company, moving production to Asia to lower costs and expand its global reach. By the early 1990s, Merrell had established divisions in Canada, the UK, and Scandinavia, with sales exceeding $10 million annually.

Innovation and Global Reach

The 1995 introduction of Vibram soles to Merrell boots further enhanced durability and traction, cementing the brand’s reputation for innovation. Two years later, Wolverine World Wide acquired Merrell, ushering in a new era of product development. The launch of the Jungle Moc, a casual slip-on shoe with a trail-ready sole, became an instant hit. By 2009, Merrell had sold 10 million pairs of Jungle Mocs worldwide.

By 2006, Merrell had expanded into apparel and accessories, introducing groundbreaking technologies such as M-Select Dry waterproofing and M-Select Warm insulation. The company’s commitment to performance and inclusivity has led it to become a leader in the outdoor industry, with a presence in over 151 countries.

Award-Winning Excellence

In 2022, Merrell was named Brand of the Year at the Footwear News Achievement Awards, recognizing its influence in the industry. Its hiking boots and barefoot running shoes continue to receive top ratings for comfort, durability, and performance.

Merrell remains committed to inclusivity and sustainability, creating products that welcome everyone to the outdoors. Whether you’re tackling a mountain trail, exploring the city, or relaxing in nature, Merrell’s durable, comfortable, and versatile gear is designed to keep you moving forward.