April, famous for its inclement weather and of course those pesky lil showers that so often catch you out, is only days away, plus, almost as a bonus, this year winter’s hanging around like a Pepper Pig sticker stuck to your fridge door, doesn’t seem to be budging ! What we need is some sort of device that allows us not to be restricted to carrying around a pair of Wellington boots with us no matter where we go and in constant fear of ruining a great and beloved pair of formal shoes that cost us a pretty penny !?!

Fear not dear reader, our good friends in the Scandinavian region, yes up there, no further, have come across a solution to ease our poor stressed out minds. SWIMS, originally established in 2005 by Johan Ringdal in Norway. The re-launch of the classic galosh with a modern twist proved to be a big success and is now found in over 25 countries in more than 650 high end stores such as Neiman Marcus, Scoop and Brooks Brothers in the US, Isetan in Japan,Trunk, Harvey Nichols, Orlebar Brown in the UK and Merci, L’Eclaireur and Le Bon Marché in France. The SWIMS collection includes galoshes, jackets, loafers, shoes, umbrellas and bags – all based on classic, nostalgic styles made with modern and unexpected materials, don’t worry, paper isn’t one of them.

The SWIMS loafer is made of water resistant rubber with nylon upper and a molded foot bed offering complete support. Some models have the velvet flocking that gives that extra luxurious finish.

 

The sole is non-marking with a ribbed pattern designed to maximize traction on slippery surfaces and the ventilation gills on the sides ensure great breathability and ultimate comfort. Unlike traditional loafers, water will not damage the SWIMS loafer making them the perfect all round shoe come rain or shine and the SWIMS loafer is machine washable up to 30 C°.

In fact, growing love of this ingenious solution is such, that designer brands as diverse as Giorgio Armani, John Lobb and Agi & Sam have all collaborated with SWIMS in their own very individual manner.

The product is best summed up by Mr Ringdal, himself;

“A stylish solution, embodying the essence of practicality: Wear your favorite shoes, slip on SWIMS when the weather is rough, slip’em off when you arrive at your destination. Enhanced comfort is assured and your shoes are guaranteed to stay shiny.”