BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND
With its high-performance design, premium materials, and Michael’s personal touch, it’s no wonder you've been eagerly waiting for the rerelease of the SAMARA. It’s a shoe that’s built to last, offers incredible versatility, and has that unmistakable style that only GORAL can deliver. Together, we’re excited to share this limited rerelease with you.
If you didn't watch Michael's video explaining the SAMARA and our collaboration then you need to - thank us later: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=of4vWilFse4
Here’s a brief explanation of the materials and craftsmanship that makes the SAMARA special:
When selecting the leather for this collaboration, we wanted to keep things local and ensure the entire shoe was made in England. That's why we turned to the world-renowned Charles F. Stead. Everyone involved agreed that their Waxy Commander leather was the ideal choice for a high-performance shoe. This premium, full-grain leather is known for its exceptional durability, luxurious texture, and distinctive look. Its signature waxed finish gives it a subtle sheen and deep, rich colour that evolves beautifully over time, developing a unique patina with wear.
Not only does the waxed finish enhance its visual appeal, but it also provides increased water resistance, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. The leather’s ruggedness ensures it can withstand the elements, while still maintaining a soft and supple feel. Waxy Commander leather strikes the perfect balance between strength and sophistication, ideal for a versatile shoe that effortlessly transitions from city streets to hiking trails.
To complement this exceptional leather, we chose Vibram Arctic Grip Soles, designed specifically for cold, icy conditions. Developed by Vibram, a leader in high-performance outsoles, Arctic Grip provides superior traction on wet ice and slippery surfaces. These soles ensure the grip and stability needed to navigate confidently through any terrain or weather.
It’s the small details that truly make this collaboration stand out. That’s why we chose to incorporate a veg-tan lining, a full leather lasting board, our signature Blake stitch construction, and a leather heel counter. One common issue with hiking shoes is that the front often comes apart over time, so we’ve hand-stitched this area to ensure added security and long-lasting durability, upholding the highest standards of quality.
For a unique touch, we teamed up with Michael (The Iron Snail) to source wool from the American Woolen Company, resulting in a one-of-a-kind shoe. The red plaid fabric, shipped directly from the U.S., makes this edition a true cross-country collaboration. While GORAL is passionate about leather, we recognise the incredible properties of wool in shoemaking. This particular wool, known for its resilience and long-lasting structure, can endure for centuries, making it the perfect material for a durable, high-performance shoe like the SAMARA.