Merrell and YMC Reunite for a Second Footwear Collaboration Featuring the Moab 2 Slide

Outdoor footwear specialist Merrell and London-based contemporary fashion brand YMC (You Must Create) have officially partnered for the second time, introducing a fresh iteration of the classic Moab 2 Slide. This highly anticipated collaborative capsule marries Merrell’s legendary performance technology and rugged utility with YMC’s signature understated, art-influenced aesthetic. Designed to bridge the often-stark divide between urban environments and the great outdoors, the collection highlights the ongoing commercial and cultural viability of hybrid outdoor footwear in the modern fashion landscape.

The renewed partnership brings forth two distinct colorways: versatile black and earthy dark walnut. Priced at $150, the Moab 2 Slide x YMC is engineered to deliver high-end comfort without sacrificing structural integrity or trail-ready durability. The design is anchored by a tactile, hairy suede upper that provides an elevated, textural finish, complemented by an easy slip-on construction that caters to the modern consumer’s demand for convenience and effortless wear. Protection and stability remain paramount, featuring a durable rubber toe cap and Merrell’s proprietary Air Cushion technology embedded in the heel to maximize shock absorption during extended wear. Underfoot, a premium leather footbed cover delivers an immediately soft, luxurious feel, while the outsole utilizes Vibram’s Ecostep Recycle compound, constructed with 30 percent recycled rubber to align with contemporary sustainability standards.

The Genesis and Evolution of the Partnership

This sophomore capsule builds upon a successful foundational relationship between the two brands, reflecting a broader industry trend where heritage outdoor performance labels team up with avant-garde or contemporary apparel designers to capture a younger, fashion-forward demographic. Merrell, founded in 1981 and widely recognized for its dominance in hiking boots and trail footwear, has increasingly leaned into lifestyle crossovers over the past several years. By collaborating with independent tastemakers like YMC, Merrell successfully positions its performance archives as canvases for high-fashion interpretation.

YMC, established in London in 1995 by Fraser Moss and Jimmy Collins, derived its moniker from a quote by industrial designer Raymond Loewy: "You must create your own design." Over nearly three decades, the brand has cultivated a loyal following by turning away from fleeting runway trends in favor of thoughtful, functional garments influenced by British subcultures, vintage workwear, music, and art. This philosophy of restraint and intentionality serves as the ideological bridge between YMC’s apparel offerings and Merrell’s technical footwear framework.

Design Philosophy and Aesthetic Integration

According to Sage Toda-Nation, creative director at YMC, the Moab 2 Slide was chosen for the second collaboration because it represents a versatile footwear category capable of seamlessly integrating into the daily routine of individuals who split their time between metropolitan streets and rural retreats.

"The shoe feels like it fits just right into the YMC uniform," Toda-Nation stated. "Merrell has always created shoes that stand the test of time and push innovation. It’s been a pleasure to bring this shoe to life together."

This sentiment is echoed by Merrell’s leadership team, who view the partnership as a masterclass in design restraint. Noreen Naroo-Pucci, chief product officer at Merrell, noted that the collaboration offers a unique opportunity to reimagine a celebrated silhouette through a sophisticated lens.

"We have always admired how YMC approaches design with restraint, purpose, and intentionality," Naroo-Pucci said. "This second collaboration gives us the opportunity to revisit an iconic Merrell silhouette through a more refined lens, while keeping the comfort, utility, and outdoor credibility that make the Moab franchise so trusted."

Narrative Campaign and Artistic Inspiration

To support the global rollout of the Moab 2 Slide x YMC, the collaborative partners devised a distinct, narrative-driven promotional campaign. Centered around the timeless pastime of kite flying, the campaign draws direct inspiration from the life and legacy of the late British kite designer Peter Powell and the historical significance of Peter Powell Kites, which revolutionized stunt kite flying in the 1970s.

The accompanying visual campaign and short film document the meticulous process of constructing and flying a kite, transitioning from the quiet focus of an artist’s studio out into expansive, open-air landscapes. By anchoring the campaign in craftsmanship, wind, movement, and a sense of unadulterated play, Merrell and YMC have successfully communicated the core values of both brands: patience in creation and freedom in execution. Industry observers have praised the campaign for steering clear of standard, high-gloss product shoots in favor of a narrative that celebrates heritage, ingenuity, and a tactile relationship with the elements.

Market Implications and the Gorpcore Phenomenon

The launch of the Moab 2 Slide x YMC arrives at a pivotal moment for the footwear and apparel industries. The intersection of outdoor functionality and urban streetwear—colloquially termed "gorpcore"—has evolved from a micro-trend into a permanent fixture of global consumer preference. Consumers increasingly demand footwear that transitions effortlessly from concrete pavements to uneven forest trails without requiring a wardrobe change.

By leveraging the equity of the Moab franchise—widely considered one of the most successful hiking footwear lines in history—Merrell ensures that the collaboration retains absolute functional credibility. At the same time, YMC infuses the technical silhouette with a cultural cachet that appeals directly to independent boutique shoppers, art directors, and design-conscious urbanites.

Furthermore, the integration of sustainable components, such as the Vibram Ecostep Recycle outsole featuring 30 percent recycled rubber, addresses the growing consumer demand for eco-conscious manufacturing practices. As regulatory pressures mount and shoppers vote with their wallets regarding environmental stewardship, footwear brands that successfully combine eco-friendly materials with high-design collaborations are better positioned to capture market share among discerning younger buyers.

Distribution Strategy and Global Rollout

The distribution strategy for the Moab 2 Slide x YMC reflects a curated, tiered approach designed to maximize exclusivity before achieving broader market availability. The collaboration officially launched as an exclusive release on YMC’s proprietary e-commerce platform, YMC.com, alongside physical YMC retail flagships.

Following the initial exclusive window, the collaboration is scheduled for a wider global release beginning September 21. From this date forward, consumers worldwide will be able to purchase the black and dark walnut colorways directly through Merrell.com, as well as via a handpicked selection of global stockists, specialty fashion boutiques, and high-end sneaker platforms.

With a retail price point set at $150, the collection occupies an accessible luxury sweet spot that appeals to both dedicated sneaker collectors and loyal wearers of heritage outdoor gear. As both brands look toward the future of hybrid footwear design, the Moab 2 Slide x YMC stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful curation, cross-industry partnership, and the enduring appeal of functional design executed with intention.