If you like the outdoors, or even just appreciate footwear that feels comfortable and practical, then you know these two names well.
Sorel and L.L.Bean are brands that have been in the market for decades. They’re both quite popular and serve a huge amount of happy users worldwide.
So if you’re thinking about buying a new pair of sturdy shoes, which ones would you choose? In this detailed comparison of Sorel vs. L.L. Bean, we’ll give you all the information you need to make the right decision.
5 Important Points Differentiate Sorel and L.L.Bean
Sorel and L.L.Bean aren’t too easy to compare. They’re quite similar in many ways, but we managed to spot the points that set them apart.
1. Brand History and Vision
It’s always informative to know where a company is coming from, and, what it committed to along the way. This is among the easiest ways to assess a brand.
Sorel
Sorel’s early start in 1920 at the hands of Alvin Ratz was a far cry from what it had become in 2000 after its bankruptcy and acquisition by Columbia sports.
The company started even earlier than 1920, when Alvin’s father, Jacob Ratz Kaufman, produced rubber and then opened up the first rubber footwear factory. The up-and-coming Canadian brand served the local farmer’s market primarily.
Later, in 1962, Sorel expanded its production line and focused more on high-quality outdoor footwear and winter apparel. These boots were hugely successful until the 2000s when the company became bankrupt.
The new owners, Columbia sports, took the brand to new heights. They focused far more on making bold designs. The comfort and durability were still there, but the styles were stunning. The products were made for the outdoors, but also for the elegant city scene.
L.L.Bean
L.L.Bean is all about embracing and enjoying the outdoor life, assisted by comfortable practical attire. Actually, this is how the story of this prime quality brand begins.
The very first L.L.Bean product appeared more than a century ago, specifically, in 1911. That was when Leon Leonwood Bean went off on a hunting trip but suffered all over from the cold and damp weather.
He decided to make bigger boots with thicker rubber bottoms and comfortable leather uppers. His Maine Hunting shoes gained a lot of initial traction, and he sold a hundred pairs right away. However, this success was short-lived, as the boots came apart, and his customers sent them back.
This was probably the first and last time anyone ever had an issue with the quality of an L. L. Bean product. Bean was a clever businessman who turned every need into an opportunity. His product line expanded to include outwear, clothing for the whole family, apparel, outdoor equipment, home goods, bags, and travel accessories
This brand boomed from its inception up to this day. It actually managed to thrive during the great depression and two world wars.
2. Materials
Both Sorel and L.L.Bean use the best possible combination of materials to make comfortable, warm, protective, and durable shoes. There aren’t too many differences, and the ones we could spot are rather technical. They do, however, make each brand unique and exceptional.
Sorel
One of Sorel’s masterpieces is the CARIBOU WOOL BOOT. This model is a lifesaver on a rainy day, and highly practical during heavy snow. These are fully waterproof and generously insulated boots.
The uppers are made from full-grain leather, while the midsoles are 2.5 mm thick, and they’re bonded felt frost plug. As for the outsole, it’s a patented piece made from vulcanized rubber shell, fitted with Sorel’s aero-trac tech that they point out as a non-loading material. The part that really generates all the warmth is a removable inner boot made from 9 mm wool.
L.L.Bean
A similar set from L.L.Bean is their Tumbled Leather Snow Boots. True to its name, the uppers are made from tumbled leather, and to add to its value, these uppers are meticulously handcrafted.
The removable inner liner is made from faux fleece which is warm and soft. The bottom shell and the midsole are crafted from molded vulcanized rubber, and that gives flexibility plus maximum traction on snow.
3. Style
Looks matter! Style is among the main factors that buyers consider as they pick a pair of shoes or any other commodity.
Sorel
Sorel went through three big stylistic mutations: at its earliest beginnings, Sorel footwear catered mainly to rural Canada. As it reinvented itself in the 1960s, their footwear addressed a wider more varied demographic. Their shoes took on a fresher look, and that put the brand on the map.
The biggest change happened in the 2000s after Columbia bought Sorel. That’s when they became truly avant-garde and city chic. The JOAN OF ARCTIC women’s boots demonstrate this well.
L.L.Bean
L.L.Bean remains closer to a traditional classic style, that often harkens to the very first Main Hunter Boots. Women’s shoes often get a refreshing highlight of color or unpredictable line that adds plenty of interest. One of their stunning creations is the Women’s Storm Chaser Boots.
4. Quality
The quality of both brands is quite impressive. They satisfy the hardest tastes, and users rarely complain or show disappointment.
Having said that, it’s worth noting that L.L.Bean often goes the extra mile. Their choice of materials and their manufacturing processes are impeccable. This gives their products an extra edge in terms of performance and durability.
5. Price
Sorel and L.L.Bean are high-end brands. It’s not a big surprise then that their price tags reflect this status.
Sorel
Men’s hiking boots are among the hottest types of footwear that users currently prefer. They’re comfortable, practical, sturdy, and they’re elegant enough to wear for work or other social events.
The MADISON boots are almost irresistible.
The other models in the footwear line are more or less similarly priced. Sandals and sneakers are closer in price, while boots can go well over their typical range.
L.L. Bean
We found a nice pair of boots from L.L.Bean that compares fairly with Sorel’s MADISON. It’s the Stonington Boots. Depending on the color of these boots, you can get a pair for a similar cost, which is not bad at all, considering its ruggedness and style.
The Verdict
Sorel focuses mostly on style and variety, so if you’re into innovation and boldness, you should check out their website. Sorel only sells footwear though, while L.L.Bean has a huge variety of outdoor gear.
Additionally, what you’d get from L.L.Bean has a slightly higher quality. The styles are a tad more classical, but not in a boring manner. They’re absolutely attractive and elegant.
Sorel and L.L.Bean are amazing brands, so generally, you won’t go wrong if you buy a new pair of shoes from either manufacturer.