Skip to content
Get featured
Photo-style illustration of a fashion atelier with a wool coat and a sewing machine

Browns Shoes

Family shoe retailer that began as one store on Sainte-Catherine in 1940, known for designer footwear.

  • Montréal
  • since 1940
  • Fashion and accessories

About Browns Shoes

Browns Shoes is a family shoe retailer that began as a single store on Sainte-Catherine Street in 1940. It is known for designer footwear and handbags, with a selection that leans toward fashion.

It suits people shopping for a special pair, like wedding shoes, a good pair of boots for winter, or something for a big event. Staff can help with fit, and it is worth investing in winter boots that can handle salt and slush. Still a Montreal family business after more than 80 years, Browns grew from Sainte-Catherine into a recognized Canadian name.

At a glance

Based in
Montréal
Founded
1940
Size
A well-known name across Quebec
Listed in
Made in QuebecMade in QuebecMade in MontrealMade in Montreal

Questions people ask

Is Browns Shoes made in Quebec?

Yes. Browns Shoes started in Quebec and is based in Montréal, on the island of Montreal, so it is listed in both Made in Quebec and Made in Montreal.

What does Browns Shoes make?

Family shoe retailer that began as one store on Sainte-Catherine in 1940, known for designer footwear.

When was Browns Shoes founded?

Browns Shoes was founded in 1940, about 86 years ago.

Where can I buy from Browns Shoes?

Start with its official website, brownsshoes.com. Quebec labels sell through their own shops and websites, department stores and independent boutiques. Pop-up markets are a good way to meet small designers.

Is Browns Shoes a big company or a small business?

Browns Shoes is a well-known name across Quebec.

What are some local brands similar to Browns Shoes?

Other local brands in Fashion and accessories include Greiche & Scaff, Deux par Deux, New Look, Aldo.

How did Browns Shoes get on this list?

Montreal Tips lists businesses that started in Quebec and still make, run or are based here. Listings are free and never sponsored. If you run Browns Shoes and want to update this page, contact us.

More in Fashion and accessories

See all 119
  • Made in Montreal

    Greiche & Scaff

    Montréal

    Montréal optician chain whose lenses are made and glasses assembled in its own Montréal lab.

    • Big name
  • Made in Montreal

    Deux par Deux

    Montréal · since 1986

    Colourful kids' clothing and snowsuits from a Montréal family business founded in 1986.

    • Big name
  • Made in Montreal

    New Look

    Montréal · since 1986

    Quebec eyewear chain since 1986, with opticians and optometrists in 89 stores.

    • Big name
  • Made in Montreal

    Aldo

    Montréal · since 1972

    Shoes, boots, bags and accessories from a family company founded in Montréal by Aldo Bensadoun.

    • Big name
  • Made in Montreal

    Kanuk

    Montréal · since 1970

    Winter coats built for real Canadian cold since 1970, with a boutique on rue Rachel.

    • Big name
  • Made in Montreal

    Pajar

    Montréal · since 1963

    Winter boots and jackets from a brand started in Montréal in 1963 by shoemaker Paul Golbert.

    • Big name
  • Made in Montreal

    Caroline Néron

    Montréal

    Jewelry and accessories by Quebec actress and designer Caroline Néron, sold online and in boutiques.

    • Big name
  • Made in Montreal

    Orage

    Montréal · since 1989

    Ski and snowboard jackets and pants designed and tested in Quebec since 1989.

    • Big name

Also from Montréal

  • Made in Montreal

    Thunder Lotus Games

    Montréal · since 2014

    Montreal indie studio known for hand-drawn games like Spiritfarer, Jotun and 33 Immortals.

    • Toys, games and fun
    • Small maker
  • Made in Montreal

    Lesters

    Montréal

    Montreal deli meat maker known for its smoked meat, hot dogs, pepperoni and beef products.

    • Food and pantry
    • Big name
  • Made in Montreal

    Hoche Glacé

    Montréal

    Hochelaga gelato shop on Bennett Avenue with Italian-style gelato, vegan options and homemade ice cream cakes.

    • Maple and sweets
    • Small maker
  • Made in Montreal

    Piknic Électronik

    Montréal · since 2003

    Montreal organizer of summer outdoor electronic music Sundays at Parc Jean-Drapeau and the winter Igloofest.

    • Services
    • Small maker

Details change. If something here is out of date, tell us and we will fix it.