Cole Haan has an intriguing story of evolution and innovation. Founded in Chicago in 1928 by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan, the brand initially focused exclusively on men’s footwear under “Cole, Rood & Haan.” Over the years, Cole Haan expanded its product line to include women’s and children’s products, marking a significant evolution from its original focus. The founders sold the company in 1975 to a group led by George Denney, setting the stage for further growth and diversification​​​​​​.

The brand’s commitment to quality, style, and service has been a constant throughout its history. This dedication is evident in its product offerings, including shoes and men’s and women’s apparel, outerwear, belts, hosiery, handbags, gloves, scarves, hats, and sunglasses. This expansion reflects Cole Haan’s adaptation to changing market demands and aims to become a respected global lifestyle brand​​​​.

Cole Haan has adeptly navigated the challenges of the modern retail environment. The brand has embraced e-commerce and revamped its products to appeal to millennials and women, a strategic move that has helped it stay competitive. The pricing of its products ranges from $60 to $400, with most items falling between $100 and $200. This pricing strategy positions Cole Haan as a premium brand, accessible yet exclusive. Furthermore, the brand’s global expansion strategy, now under the ownership of Apax Partners, demonstrates its ambition for continuous growth and its vision to maintain profitable growth while being recognized as a global lifestyle brand​​​​​​.

Cole Haan is a brand that showcases consistent quality and stylistic evolution in men’s footwear. From its modest beginnings in Chicago to becoming a global lifestyle brand, Cole Haan has successfully adapted to the changing market trends while staying true to its core values of quality and craftsmanship. Its expansion into diverse product lines and strategic adoption of digital retail avenues are perfect examples of a brand that has survived and thrived in the dynamic world of fashion and lifestyle.