ABOUT US

The Brand

Canoe was founded with a simple idea to create better shoes using recycled and natural materials. Mark Britton, an industry veteran with over 20 years of designing for major sneaker brands, started Canoe after witnessing first hand the compromises made by them. Determined to craft shoes that offer maximum comfort, performance, and versatility, without compromising style, Mark set out to create new classics for dynamic lives.

The name "Canoe" reflects our commitment to natural materials and sustainability, inspired by self-propelled, natural transportation. We pride ourselves on creating premium, sustainable shoes that balance performance and comfort, versatility and longevity. Canoe stands for quality, integrity, and comfort to live a better life.
 

CANOE was founded by ex-adidas designer Mark Britton in 2018 in Santa Barbara, Ca

The Founder

 

Mark Britton has spent over 20 years with some of the most renowned brands and fastest-growing businesses in the footwear industry. As an in-house designer and consultant, he has designed best-selling shoes, marquee products for professional athletes, and spearheaded new commercial opportunities, driving success for many businesses. In 2018, Mark decided to channel his expertise into creating CANOE.

While Mark's primary focus has been on footwear, his design careers has extend to furniture, home goods (A’Design Award Gold), bags, toys, consumer products, and graphics. His favorite work is all about moving the needle- creating pinnacle product, breaking new ground or taking function or aesthetics to the extreme. It’s all about finding the right balance of brand, innovation, and style for everything he works on.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Mark is passionate about photography (www.travelxdesign.com), bonsai (serving as Vice President of the Bonsai Club of Santa Barbara), and running. He continuously seeks to challenge his skills and knowledge through diverse experiences, such as motorcycling from Mexico to Canada, participating in 24-hour drawing sessions, and running marathons and other races. Much like cross-training for an athlete, his varied interests, including post-secondary courses, bonsai, and leather-work, enrich his design approach.

  
Mark Britton is a 2004 graduate of the University of Cincinnati's DAAP Industrial Design program. He currently resides in Santa Barbara, CA, with his wife, daughter, and son.