FAQs

Welcome to HiSO. Since 1975, we have mastered the art of luxury outerwear—combining European shearling craftsmanship with Canadian-made precious fiber wools. Below are quick answers regarding our designs, materials, and care.

1. Brand Heritage & Manufacturing

Who is HiSO, and what does the name stand for?

Founded in 1975 as Hide Society, HiSO is a second-generation, Canadian-owned luxury outerwear house headquartered in Toronto, with offices in Berlin and a specialized production atelier in Europe. Short for "Hide Society," HiSO represents nearly 50 years of family mastery in transforming ethically sourced European pelts and world-class Italian and Peruvian fibers into contemporary, high-fashion outerwear.

What does it mean that HiSO is a vertically integrated brand?

Unlike labels that outsource, HiSO operates as a vertical house. We oversee every step of creation in-house—from raw material sourcing and design to hand-pattern cutting and final production. This complete oversight ensures uncompromising quality control, precise ethical standards, and lasting garment integrity.

2. Shopping & Investment

Is a genuine shearling coat worth the investment?

Yes. Crafted from 100% natural, double-faced lambskin, a premium HiSO shearling coat is designed to last for decades. Unlike synthetic alternatives that degrade quickly, genuine shearling provides natural thermal regulation, windproof defense, and a personalized patina that improves with time.

What is the difference between genuine shearling and faux shearling?

•          Genuine Shearling: A single, natural hide with leather on one side and wool fleece on the other. It is naturally breathable, insulating, and long-lasting.
•          Faux Shearling: Synthetic polyester or acrylic glued to a fabric backing. It lacks breathability, traps moisture, and wears down after a few seasons.

How do I choose between a wool/cashmere coat and a shearling coat?

•          Precious Wools (Cashmere, Alpaca, Loro Piana): Ideal for sleek tailoring, professional commuting, and versatile layering across fall, winter, and early spring.
•          Shearling: From crisp fall chills to deep winter freezes, double-faced lambskin naturally regulates body temperature—delivering effortless transitional warmth in autumn and maximum windproof insulation during peak winter cold.

How do HiSO reversible shearling coats work?

HiSO reversible shearlings feature dual-sided craftsmanship and specialized reversible hardware. You can seamlessly switch between the smooth nappa/suede exterior and the plush wool interior. Each reversible piece includes a dedicated hangtag confirming its dual-wear design.

3. Warmth & Performance

Which is warmer: A HiSO wool coat or a shearling coat?

•          Precious Wool Coats: Engineered for refined, weightless warmth. They provide optimal comfort in fall through moderate winter conditions and are ideal for formal and urban wear.
•          Double-Faced Shearling Coats: Engineered for fall through to severe winter conditions down. The leather exterior acts as a 100% windproof shield, while the dense wool interior traps body heat.

Can I wear my HiSO coat in rain or snow?

•          For Shearling: Light precipitation is manageable. Shake off excess moisture and air-dry naturally on a wide coat hanger away from direct heat. Avoid torrential downpours, as excess water can stiffen natural hides.
•          For Precious Wools: High-grade Cashmere and Alpaca repel minor surface moisture. However, wool coats should be protected from heavy rain to preserve their tailored silhouette and plush hand-feel.

How do I clean my shearling or wool coat?

•          Shearling: Never dry-clean. Standard chemicals strip natural oils. Spot-clean minor dirt with a clean, damp cloth. For professional care, consult a specialist in sheepskin.
•          Precious Wools: Dry clean only when necessary at a high-end cleaner experienced with luxury fibers.

Hang your garment on a wide wooden coat hanger in a cool, dry place. For shearling, use a breathable garment bag (never plastic) and keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. For wool, use cedar or moth repellents during the summer months.

Can I travel with a HiSO shearling coat?

Yes. Double-faced lambskin is resilient and flexible. We recommend wearing your coat on board or laying it flat in an overhead compartment skin-side out. Upon arrival, hang the garment on a wide wooden hanger to allow the natural fibers to regain their shape.

4. Materials & Finishes

What makes HiSO shearling unique?

We use authentic double-faced lambskin sourced from audited European tanneries. Every hide is hand-cut and finished with signature details: our internal collar logo tab, custom gun-metal hardware, and white label.

What is the difference between Nappa, Suede, and Semi-Suede shearling?

•          Nappa (Smooth): A smooth, lightly sealed grain surface with a subtle sheen; resistant to light rain and soil.
•          Suede (Velvet): A rich, matte, buffed nap offering classic warmth and textural depth.
•          Semi-Suede (Satin): A micro-waxed hybrid finish delivering the velvety look of suede with enhanced water-spot resistance.

What are the different shearling wool textures?

•          Toscana: Long, silky, straight fibers providing dramatic loft and lightweight warmth.
•          Toscana Rasado: Precision-shorn Toscana with a velvety, low-profile pile.
•          Curly (Bouclé): Natural ringlets offering a modern, textured aesthetic.
•          Ironed Wool: Thermally straightened wool with a sleek, high-gloss finish.
•          Nodal Wool: A compact, pebble-grained texture engineered for wind resistance.

5. Sustainability & Ethics

Is HiSO shearling ethically sourced?

Yes. Our shearling is a reclaimed by-product of the food industry. We source exclusively from tanneries adhering to international traceability standards to eliminate material waste.

What certifications do HiSO materials hold?

•          REACH Compliance: Guarantees materials are free from harmful chemicals per EU standards.
•          OEKO-TEX®: Independent testing verifying safety across all dyes and finishes.
•          LWG Gold Status: Audited excellence in water, energy, and waste management.

6. Sizing, Fit & Special Orders

How should a HiSO coat fit when I first try it on?

Upon first wear, your coat should fit comfortably snug across the shoulders and chest. Over time, natural double-faced lambskin supplely molds to your unique silhouette, while the plush wool interior gently settles to create a personalized, tailored drape.

What sizes do HiSO coats come in?

• Women’s Outerwear: XXS – XL
• Men’s Outerwear: 34 – 48

Product-specific measurements are available under the tab "Size Chart" tab on each product page.

What if a style is sold out or unavailable in my size?

Because HiSO operates as a vertically integrated house, we offer custom production for items currently out of stock. If your preferred size is unavailable, please contact our customer care team. We can craft your requested style and size within a 2-to-3 week timeframe.

Can I consult with a personal stylist prior to ordering?

Yes. Our dedicated customer care team is available to assist you with tailored fit evaluations, coat weight and temperature recommendations, and personalized styling guidance for your local climate.  Whether you need assistance choosing the ideal silhouette or require further details on a specific garment, we welcome you to contact us for one-on-one support.

What should I do if a style is not currently available in my size?

If a specific coat or jacket style is sold out or unavailable online in your preferred size, please reach out directly to our customer care team. Because we operate as a vertical manufacturer, we can craft your desired style and size upon request within a 3-4 week timeframe.

7. Alterations & Tailoring

Can I have my HiSO wool coat or shearling coat altered?

Yes. Alterations and custom tailoring services are available directly through our flagship location and headquarters in Toronto. Because shearling and precious wools require specialized equipment and expert craftsmanship, our in-house master tailors ensure your garment is adjusted without compromising its structural integrity or seam construction.

To schedule an alteration appointment or consult with our tailoring team, please visit or contact us at:

• HiSO Headquarters & Showroom
• 833 The Queensway, Etobicoke, ON M8Z 5Z1
• Phone: +1 (416) 596-7070

Once an item has been altered, it can no longer be returned for a refund. The sale of these items is considered final.

(Note: If you are located outside of the Greater Toronto Area, we recommend consulting exclusively with our customer care team.)

For further guidance or questions, please reach out to our customer care team.