1981
• Rossignol ski executives Clark Matis and John Schweizer hatch a plan for a new hiking boot company based in Waitsfield, Vt.
• Randy Merrell makes custom boots for $500 a pair. The boots are praised by Backpacker magazine.
• Randy Merrell begins working with Matis and Schweizer.
• Matis designs a high-performance, but more affordable boot.
1982
• Randy Merrell officially joins the company.
• The firm receives a $10,000 cash investment from Bank of Vermont.
• Italian sourcing is secured.
1983
• The first shipment is delivered to Hudson Trail Outfitters and Marmot Mountain Works.
• The company designs its first Gore-Tex boot.
• Separate lasts are developed for men and women for better fit.
You May Also Like
1984
• A new last is created with more toe room and narrower heels, specifically for North American feet.
1985
• The two best-selling boots are the Merrell Eagle and Merrell Super Comp.
1986
• Randy Merrell sells his interest and returns to custom boot making.
• The company sells its 25,000th pair.
1987
• The firm is purchased by Montreal-based Karhu.
• Sourcing moves to Asia.
1988
• Annual sales reach $4 million.
• A subsidiary is established in Canada.
1989
• Annual sales reach $6 million.
• A U.K.-based subsidiary opens.
1990
• Annual sales hit $10 million.
• With 700 accounts, the company sells 300,000 pairs per year.
1991
• Business launches in Scandinavia.
1992
• Annual sales reach $20 million.
• The brand begins selling in Japan.
• Technical sport sandals are introduced.
1993
• The firm grows to 38 employees.
• 82 different styles are offered.
1994
• Merrell merchandise is sold in 22 countries.
1995
• The company teams up with Vibram for new outsole designs.
1996
• Millennium Series of boots is introduced.
1997
• Wolverine World Wide Inc. buys the brand.
1998
• The Jungle Moc is born.
1999
• Footwear News names the brand as Athletic/Outdoor Brand of the Year.
2001
• Women’s and children’s product is introduced.
2002
• Total shipments of the Jungle Moc hit 3.5 million pairs.
2003
• The Land Sandal collection debuts.
2004
• The “Let’s Get Outside” tagline is adopted.
2006
• The brand enters the trail running category.
2007
• Apparel and accessories launch.
2008
• A line of packs and bags is rolled out.
2009
• 10 millionth pair of Jungle Mocs ship.
2010
• The brand is sold in 151 countries.
• Sponsorship begins for the Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series events.
2011
• Merrell, in partnership with Vibram, develops the Barefoot Collection.