# Merrell and P.A.M. Launch Nature-Inspired Hiking Shoes

Amphibian-themed designs blend style with functionality.

- **Source:** [Yanko Design](https://brifing.si/source/41d28791-ef47-4e0b-a40a-2a5efca0c11b)
- **Published:** 2026-07-15
- **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business)
- **Original article:** <https://www.yankodesign.com/2026/07/15/merrell-just-made-hiking-shoes-that-look-like-theyre-alive/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=merrell-just-made-hiking-shoes-that-look-like-theyre-alive>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/284dae94-1b36-4fd2-8983-e71313d55581

## Where Nature Meets Design

Merrell's collaboration with Australian creative label P.A.M. reimagines the Chameleon and Hydro Moc silhouettes through an amphibian lens. The Cham Storm GTX and Hydro Next Gen Moc combine reptilian textures and frog-belly patterns with uncompromised performance features.

## Cham Storm GTX: Reptilian Aesthetics

Featuring a 3D silicone-treated upper that mimics reptile skin, the Cham Storm GTX boasts a sand-sprayed texture and TPU heel counter for structural integrity. Gore-Tex waterproofing and FloatMax foam ensure trail-ready performance.

## Hydro Next Gen Moc: Lightweight Comfort

With its speckled EVA foam upper inspired by frog underbellies, the Hydro Next Gen Moc offers a weightless feel and slip-on design for daily wear. FloatMax cushioning provides all-day comfort without bulk.

## The Philosophy Behind the Concept

P.A.M.'s 'amphibious life' theme adapts the duality of creatures thriving in land and water into fashion. This approach blurs boundaries between outdoor gear and everyday style, creating a fresh cultural statement.

## Balancing Form and Function

While maintaining its performance DNA through technologies like Gore-Tex, Merrell breaks the 'beige' mold of technical footwear with P.A.M.'s creative vision. The collaboration proves users shouldn't have to choose between aesthetics and utility.

## The Evolution of Outdoor Footwear

This partnership demonstrates how hiking shoes can lead with both technical specs and bold design language. Versatile enough for urban and wilderness use, these models set a new industry standard.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.yankodesign.com/2026/07/15/merrell-just-made-hiking-shoes-that-look-like-theyre-alive/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=merrell-just-made-hiking-shoes-that-look-like-theyre-alive — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._