Mukluks are winter boots popular among the Arctic aboriginal people, including Yupik and Inuit in Canada. In general, these boots are made of sealskin and caribou or reindeer skin to enable hunters to tiptoe in the jungle.
History suggests that mukluk Canada pairs are initially crafted by the Yupik and Inuit people of the Canadian tribes. Intricate beadwork is also included in some mukluk pairs for a creative element, which is an essential homage to the culture of the Inuits.
Usually, traditional mukluks are generally made of a top-length porous and upper leather sole with a chunky cushioning sole. More often than not, the most common types of fur used for mukluks include farmed rabbit, baver, wolf, blue fox, raccoon, and coyote fur.
In general, a mukluk should have an average height of 13 to 16 inches and a standard circumference of 17 inches to ensure comfort. In most cases, the conventional boundary is taken from the burliest portion of the calf.
Mukluks should be snug as they tend to stretch to fit. As a rule of thumb, you must go down to half-size or a full-size so that you can use your pair for a long time.
Throughout the years, the mukluk was worn by World War II soldiers because of its ability to protect the wearer’s feet from cold temperatures. Other than that, mukluk Canada pairs are water-resistant, as well.
Bear in mind, though, that you have to apply two coats of protector on the suede area to repel the moisture and keep your feet warm and dry. Generally, mukluk wearers are encouraged to use a protector spray to extend its life and durability.
How Do You Clean Mukluk Boots?
Cleaning mukluks can be quite intimidating, especially when they are of leather or suede upper. Not only will you have to clean carefully, but you also need to use the right materials to prevent any damage.
Muddy mukluks should be cleaned using a suede brush and a protector spray to avoid leaving a stain on a particular spot of your boots. Use a slightly damp sponge to eliminate dirt or mud. Also, avoid coming into contact with hairspray and perfume to keep chemicals from soaking into the material.
Likewise, you can also use baking soda to remove grease or oil stains, and spilled tea or coffee. As a word of caution, gently rub the mukluk until the stain fades to avoid scratches.
What is the Variation between Moccasins and Mukluks?
The significant differences between mukluks and moccasins are seen in height, use, and warmth. Tribes experiencing less extreme climates wear moccasins around their camps to protect themselves from cold temperatures.
On the other hand, mukluks were worn as all-encyclopedic protection from the harshest weather conditions. They typically reach high up to the knees to provide warmth and comfort during gathering expeditions, fishing trips, and hunting excursions.
Best of all, modern mukluks have padded sole, which provides excellent protection for moisture as well as ties and zippers for superior accessibility. Presently, mukluks have even evolved into becoming a house slipper to offer warmth during winter days.
Posts by SpeakBindas Editorial Team.