Nicole McLaughlin and Merrell Dig in the Archives for a Trio of Outdoor Slip-Ons

Nicole McLaughlin is quickly following up on her four-in-one Hoka sneaker with another outdoor football collaboration. Her latest effort trades cheeky and utilitarian sensibilities for tastefulness and simplicity with three colorways coming to an archival slip-on from Merrell. There are, however, some largely unseen updates to embody the sustainable principals central to McLaughlin’s upcycling practice.

The two collaborators are reviving the Moc Speed Streak, a model that dates back to 2002 and bridges the line between leisure and trekking. Recycled suede and 100 percent recycled mesh form the upper, which is reinforced with a rubber toe cap for protection and Cleansport NXT technology for odor resistance. The sockliner also makes use of recycled mesh, while a neoprene collar offers a snug but malleable opening. Down low, the footbed features 50 percent recycled EVA foam while the midsole made of the same material includes EVA specks that are 20 percent recycled.

Branding remains largely the same for the Moc Speed Streak, and the “Black/Amber” colorway is actually one of the model’s originals. A small blue “NM” hangtag sits just beneath the collar of all three pairs, while co-branding features on the insole. McLaughlin’s new contributions to the color schemes then come in “Birch/Hi-Vis” and “Coyote/Olive.”

This collaboration, which sees McLaughlin and Merrell taking a product to market for the first time, continues a trend of wonky outdoor sneakers with roots in the 2000s. Close peers come from Oakley’s Team Factory output — and especially its own collaborations with Brain Dead.

The “pre-launch” for the Nicole McLaughlin x Merrell Moc Speed Streak is scheduled for Black Friday, Nov. 24, through Dover Street Market’s website and worldwide locations. A wider launch will then go down Dec. 1 on Merrell’s website and from select additional retailers.

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.