Founded in 1928 by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan, Cole Haan grew from a single shoe to a broad leather goods and accessories brand. The company integrated Nike cushioning technologies during Nike's ownership (starting in 1988) and later focused on lightweight, flexible sole constructions in its "Grand" line. Nike sold the brand in 2012 to private investors, and Cole Haan continues as a lifestyle footwear and accessories label that emphasizes both style and comfort.

Founded as a shoe company in 1928

Cole Haan was launched in Chicago in 1928 by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan. They started with a single shoe design and built a reputation for refined leather footwear. Over decades the company expanded from men's dress shoes into a broader line of leather goods and accessories.

Product expansion and design DNA

The brand kept its focus on craftsmanship and classic styling while broadening its assortment. Today Cole Haan sells footwear, handbags, belts, wallets and a range of accessories. Handbag styles span clutches, satchels, shoulder bags, hobos and everyday totes, usually with leather construction and attention to trim and proportion.

Technology and collaborations

Under Nike's ownership, Cole Haan incorporated Nike cushioning and comfort technologies into dress and casual shoes. Nike acquired the company in 1988 and the pairing introduced athletic-style comfort into traditionally styled footwear.

More recently the brand has emphasized lightweight, flexible soles and modern cushioning in its "Grand" family of designs (for example, Zerogrand), which aim to blend dress shoe lines with casual comfort.

Ownership and business notes

Nike owned Cole Haan for many years before selling the business in 2012 to private investors. Since then the brand has continued to operate as a lifestyle footwear and accessories label, with a mix of retail stores, e-commerce and wholesale distribution.

Why Cole Haan still matters

Cole Haan's core remains a balance of traditional leather craftsmanship and incremental comfort innovations. That combination appeals to shoppers who want polished shoes and accessories with improved wearability compared with older, purely dress-oriented construction.

What to expect now

If you look at Cole Haan today you'll see classic silhouettes updated with softer midsoles, lighter outsoles and an emphasis on movement. The line still targets consumers who value design and materials, but who also prioritize all-day comfort.
  1. Confirm current ownership structure of Cole Haan as of 2025 (private owner name or public status).
  2. Verify usage and naming of the brand's 'Grand' product family and specific model names (e.g., Zerogrand) and their launch timelines.

FAQs about Cole Hahn

Who founded Cole Haan and when?
Cole Haan was founded in Chicago in 1928 by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan.
Did Cole Haan invent Nike Air?
No. Nike developed the Air cushioning technology. During Nike's ownership of Cole Haan (beginning in 1988), Cole Haan integrated Nike cushioning into some of its footwear to improve comfort.
What kinds of products does Cole Haan make today?
Cole Haan sells footwear for men and women, handbags, belts, wallets and accessories. Recent product families focus on lighter soles and improved cushioning to increase day-long comfort.
Is Cole Haan still owned by Nike?
No. Nike owned Cole Haan for many years but sold the brand in 2012 to private investors. The company has continued as a lifestyle footwear and accessories brand since that sale.
What is the brand known for?
Cole Haan is known for combining traditional leather craftsmanship and classic styling with comfort-focused innovations, such as cushioned midsoles and flexible outsoles.

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