Only Proenza Schouler Could Make Arctic Shoes Look This Cool

With the temperatures dropping and snow on the horizon, it’s time to put function over fashion. Or is it? Since 1962, Canadian-founded footwear brand Sorel has been redefining winter style, crafting durable footwear that’s as ready for ice, sleet, and snowstorms as it is for Fashion Week. As if you needed any more convincing, the now Portland, Oregon-based brand is teaming up with purveyors of downtown cool, Proenza Schouler, on a collaboration that will have you rethinking your winter wardrobe.

The CFDA Designer of the Year and Womenswear Designer of the Year winners are embracing Sorel’s heritage for durability while adding their touch of elevated style and craftsmanship. Crafted in high-quality leather, Sorel’s signature Caribou boot and mule are elevated in a refined, sleek palette of black, ochre, and ecru. Contrast stitching (a Proenza Schouler signature) adds a bold, artisanal detail to each shoe, reflecting both brands’ meticulous craftsmanship.

First showcased at Proenza Schouler’s S/S 25 show in New York, the styles come to life in a campaign shot by Zoë Ghertner. Capturing the spirit of the collaboration, Ghertner reflects the intersection of Proenza Schouler’s modern sophistication with Sorel’s legacy of functionality. Placed on blocks of ice, the imagery highlights the sleek design while evoking winter’s harsh beauty—a nod to Sorel’s history.

Founded by Arthur Ratz Kaufman, Sorel began as a workwear brand for those braving the harshest conditions. The brand’s sturdy, no-nonsense designs quickly gained a following among outdoor enthusiasts for their performance in sub-zero temperatures and rugged landscapes. Originally developed to serve loggers, hunters, and anyone needing extreme weather protection, Sorel’s early designs focused on durability and insulation.

In cities where winter can be just as unforgiving as the great outdoors, the collaboration between Proenza Schouler and Sorel offers a perfect solution for navigating both urban and natural environments. By blending the timeless ruggedness of Sorel with Proenza Schouler's modern design sensibility, this collection empowers wearers to embrace the winter months with confidence, ensuring they are prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead—whether scaling icy sidewalks or braving snowy trails.