About this time last fall, I wrote about slippers, wonderful sheepskin slippers made in Quebec and worn warmly by happy feet everywhere. The last few nights have been nippy enough to remind me (and my feet) that it is time to talk about Garneau & Co and why these slippers are so wonderful.
The company’s founder, Francois Garneau, was only 23 years old when he began to design slippers. This was in 1977, and his research into warmth and comfort lead him to the other side of the world. The sheepskin products from New Zealand and Australia were the finest he could source, and that year, Garneau slippers went into production. The sheepskin he imports balances the need for durability with lightness and comfort. Why use sheepskin for slippers?
Considered a health 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. Sheepskin works 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. It has 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 softly molds to the shape of your foot for a fabulous fit. The insulating properties keep feet at the right temperature as air can still circulate in the fluff. Wool is tough so it takes a long time to wear out these slippers. Absolutely Fabulous at Home has carried these slippers for well over a decade. I’m on my third pair (one pair had to be replaced sooner than normal thanks to a chewing puppy).
As with many family owned 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.
Our most popular slippers 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. While the Garneau folks recommend hand washing, both Betty Jean and I have machine washed our slippers and are pleased with the results. I suggest a mild detergent and washing them with towels for some scrubability, then mostly cool machine drying with an air-dry finish.
Winter is coming. Warm feet are one of the best ways to stay cozy. Pre-booking for Christmas slippers is available until November 9. Come in for a fitting and see why our feet are so happy.
Did you know? Sheepskin facts- the wool never sheds as it is attached to the skin, it is static free, and stays warm even if it is wet.
Cathy Reid is the owner of Absolutely Fabulous at Home in New Minas. Learn more at www.absolutelyfab.ca
