Merrell’s latest collab goes (P)amphibious

Having earned a rep for their unique wearable mutations of art, music, psy-activity, and subculture, melbourne based Perks and Mini AKA P.A.M. are one of those super creative collectives that the more progressive brands really love to collaborate with. Which is why their latest release is in conjunction with outdoor footwear legends Merrell, who together have created a collab that’s driven by the idea of thriving in-between spaces. Locations that are neither fully urban nor completely outside, but sit somewhere that’s much more fluid, expressive, and totally open to transformation. Whilst the choice of specific shoes were inspired by a story that P.A.M. founders Misha Hollenbach and Shauna Toohey approached Merrell with that made the partnership feel personal from the outset. The tale relating to Misha, who, after his shoes broke down on a 50-mile bike ride, finished the journey in a pair of Hydro Mocs, a shoe he often takes when out bike packing. So for this collaboration, the duo reimagines two iconic Merrell silhouettes, the Chameleon and the Hydro Moc, as the Cham Storm Gore-Tex and Hydro Next Gen Moc, both of which explore amphibian life and environments through form, texture, and function.

So the Cham Storm features a toggle quick-lace system for easy on/easy off functionality, alongside an engineered mesh upper with a custom 3D silicone treatment that gives the shoe it’s incredible reptilian appearance (with the GTX membrane providing breathable, waterproof protection). Then the molded TPU heel counter adds security, with a rough sand spray finish that introduces another layer of texture, whilst underfoot, a FloatMax foam midsole is there to deliver a soft, smooth ride. Keeping with this amphibious antipodean theme the Hydro Next Gen Moc takes the OG Hydro Moc further enables it to transition more easily from water to land. Also designed for an easy on/off experience the new Moc features maximum underfoot cushioning, paired with an EVA foam upper for a lightweight and more flexible fit. AN like the Chams these also feature a FloatMax foam midsole alongside an additional bubble eye detail, with lenticular effect that examines the surrounding habitat.