Minnetonka
Minnetonka Moccasin has been making footwear of unequaled value for over fifty years. These comfortable, stylish slippers and casual shoes are cut from only the best glove tanned leathers and constructed with a commitment to excellent fit and long wear.
Moccasins have been worn in North America since the first indigenous Native Americans created them from deer skins and other pelts in pre-recorded times. Today, millions of people all over the world continue to enjoy the casual comfort and appealing style of this unique type of footwear where the foot is surrounded by soft supple leather.
About our Moccasins...
A common concern with many consumers is that they ‘don’t know a thing about moccasins’. Most consumers don’t know about the different leathers that are used; how a moccasin fits; or how to care for moccasins. The beauty of true moccasins is that they virtually sell themselves. Let us offer some answers to frequent questions.
LEATHERS:
Minnetonka Moccasin uses many leathers such as cowhide and suede leathers in addition to ‘exotic’ leathers such as moose, deerskin and shearling. Here is a description of the various leathers.
Cowhide Leather
The most commonly used leather. Our cowhide is all full grain leather and has been treated with various tanning processes. Full grain leather develops into a strong and supple product allowing breath ability and long wear.
Suede
The common characteristic of suede is the exposed leather fibers known as nap. Our suede is expertly tanned taking special care to sand and buff the surface creating a fine luxurious nap. This process also allows for greater flexibility in the leather, and long wear as in full grains.
Brown or Tan Ruff
Minnetonka Moccasin helped pioneer this special leather. In this process, the leather is treated by impregnating the surface with oils in which the nap of the leather is held down. The result is a rough distressed looking finish.
Moose Hide
The soft, buttery feel of moose is why it is Minnetonka’s #1 selling leather. Moose comes from the arctic regions where they are an important source of food. Any scars or scratches are natural characteristics of the wild moose. They attest to the genuineness of the leather and enhance it natural beauty. Moose leather is known for its high degree of tensile strength without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.
Deerskin
Deerskin leather is also known for its softness and provides the utmost in comfort and long wear. Because the animals come from the wild, any scars or scratches are the natural characteristic of the hide.
FIT
An ideal moccasin fit should be comfortably snug. If the moccasin is fit too loosely, the leather will stretch causing a sloppy fit. Our shearling styles are designed to be worn with a light sock (nylon is ideal) or a bare foot.
CARE
Moccasins are easy to care for. For cowhide leather we suggest a cream shoe polish that will help protect the finish. For suede, a spray leather protector will help make the suede water and stain resistant. For deerskin and moose leather, we recommend a delicate leather cream which moisturizes the leather.
For sheepskin/shearling, hand wash with mild detergent. Let air dry, out of direct sun light. Avoid direct heat, as it will evaporate the natural oils from the leather.
