Anfibio is a family-owned and operated Montreal-based brand rooted in quality craftsmanship, creating durable, Canadian-made boots built to endure every season. Each pair reflects their commitment to premium materials and meticulous design, guaranteeing style and resilience in equal measure.
Come behind the scenes at Anfibio, where gravitypope had the chance to experience their process up close with the Passarelli family. Touring both the factory and store, we got an in-depth look at how their boots are made, from raw materials to the finished product. Nestled in the heart of Montreal, Anfibio’s factory and storefront are a testament to the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and quality. We saw firsthand the meticulous attention to detail that goes into every pair of boots — from selecting premium materials to the precise stitching techniques that ensure durability. Anfibio isn’t just about creating footwear; it’s about upholding a legacy of Canadian-made excellence.
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Anfibio est une marque familiale de Montréal, ancrée dans un savoir-faire de qualité, qui crée des bottes canadiennes durables, conçues pour affronter toutes les saisons. Chaque paire reflète leur engagement envers des matériaux haut de gamme et un design soigné, garantissant style et robustesse à parts égales.
Venez découvrir les coulisses d'Anfibio, où gravitypope a eu la chance d'explorer de près leur processus avec la famille Passarelli. Lors de notre visite de l'usine et du magasin, nous avons eu un aperçu détaillé de la fabrication de leurs bottes, des matières premières au produit fini. Nichée au cœur de Montréal, l'usine et le magasin d'Anfibio témoignent de l'engagement de la marque envers l'artisanat et la qualité. Nous avons pu constater l'attention méticuleuse portée à chaque paire de bottes — de la sélection des matériaux de première qualité aux techniques de couture précises qui assurent leur durabilité. Anfibio ne se contente pas de fabriquer des chaussures; c'est une marque qui perpétue un héritage d'excellence canadienne.
All answers provided by Pina Passarelli.
Can you tell us a brief history of the brand?
Anfibio was born in 1968, in the heart of Montreal, as a small family-run workshop dedicated to making high-quality winter boots. Over the years, it has evolved into a recognized brand, maintaining its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and Italian-sourced materials.
What role does family play in Anfibio?
Family is at the core of Anfibio. The brand started as a family business, and those values continue to influence everything we do. It’s about more than just making boots; it’s about creating a sense of connection, passing down skills, and supporting our community. We’ve built a team that feels like family, ensuring the care, passion, and expertise that goes into every pair of boots is a true reflection of who we are.
What skills or knowledge has been passed down to you?
The art of bootmaking has been passed down through generations at Anfibio, a tradition deeply influenced by my father’s expertise and passion for the craft. Over the years, three generations have played a role in shaping the design of our boots, blending tradition with new perspectives to make the brand truly unique. We’ve learned to appreciate the importance of quality craftsmanship, from hand-selecting the finest materials to the detailed stitching and finishing of each pair. It’s not just about technical skills but also understanding the value of tradition, patience, and the pursuit of excellence in every step of the process.
What is Anfibio's key brand ethos?
Our ethos is centred around craftsmanship, quality, and authenticity. We are committed to making boots that not only look great but also withstand harsh Canadian winters, ensuring comfort, warmth, and durability. Every boot we produce reflects our belief in sustainable, local manufacturing and our dedication to creating products that people can trust and love for years.
How are your boots made, and can you speak about your commitment to craftsmanship?
Our boots are handcrafted in Montreal using over 100 steps to ensure each pair meets our high standards. We use traditional Italian construction methods, combining time-honoured techniques with modern innovations, all while keeping everything 100% local. Our skilled artisans focus on every detail, from hand-stitching the leather to assembling each component, guaranteeing that each boot is a work of art that reflects the tradition of bootmaking we’ve preserved for over half a century.
Can you tell us about the materials you use to make the boots?
We source premium materials from Italy, known for their durability and beauty. Our boots feature waterproof full-grain leather, natural wool, and genuine sheepskin linings for comfort and warmth. We also incorporate ice gripper outsoles, designed to provide superior traction in winter conditions. We believe in using only the highest quality materials to create boots that not only protect but also age beautifully over time.
What is the importance of being a made-in-Canada label?
Being a made-in-Canada brand is a point of pride for us. It’s about supporting our local economy, contributing to our community, and showcasing the craftsmanship that Canada has to offer. It also allows us to maintain control over the quality of our products, ensuring that every boot meets our standards and those of our customers.
How long have you been making shoes in this factory? Can you speak about its significance and history?
We’ve been making shoes in the same factory for over 50 years, and it’s more than just a workspace—it’s a place where traditions are kept alive. Our factory symbolizes the legacy of our family and the evolution of our brand. It’s where every idea takes shape and becomes a product that our customers can wear with pride. It’s a testament to the hard work and passion that has been poured into every pair of Anfibio boots for decades.
Where do you find design inspiration?
Our inspiration comes from the rugged Canadian landscape and the needs of our customers. We design our boots to handle everything from harsh winters to urban settings, focusing on combining style and functionality. We’re also inspired by the rich history of bootmaking and look to infuse each new collection with elements that pay homage to the past while embracing modern aesthetics.
What makes Anfibio unique?
Anfibio is unique because we offer more than just boots; Our commitment to quality materials, local manufacturing, and exceptional customer service sets us apart, and our heritage as a family-owned business adds a level of authenticity that is rare in today’s market.
What are you most proud of with Anfibio?
I’m most proud of how we’ve stayed true to our roots while evolving with the times. We’ve managed to preserve the traditions of our craft, ensuring that every boot reflects the expertise and care passed down through generations. Seeing our customers appreciate and connect with our products on a personal level is incredibly rewarding.
Where do you see the brand in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I envision Anfibio growing while staying true to our roots as a family-owned and locally made brand. We will continue our commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity.
