From Dog Walks to Business Meetings: The Story Behind the YOLO x GORAL Sneaker

When Yolanda from YOLO Journal first slipped on a pair of our Mellor II sneakers, she didn’t know they’d become her most-worn shoes. Simple, minimal, quietly premium.

So when Yolanda came back to us and said, “Can we bring these back?” - we couldn’t say no.

The result is the YOLO x GORAL Mellor II sneaker: an ultra-versatile, low-key navy sneaker designed to go with everything. Think: dog walks in the morning, a quick airport run in the afternoon, and dinner in a blazer that evening. It’s built for people who live in their shoes, and care about how they’re made.

Why Yolanda (and Alex) Love Them?

Yolanda loves that she can wear hers like slip-ons. No fuss, no lacing, just out the door. Our full-grain leather softens over time, so they mould to your feet without ever feeling too rigid.

Alex, Deputy Editor at YOLO Journal, took the navy pair and hasn’t looked back. For someone constantly on the move, comfort is key, and the cushioned heel and classic design make them perfect for travelling, walking, and everyday life.

Made to Last

The YOLO sneaker is handmade to order in our Sheffield, England workshop, using our resoleable Blake stitch construction. If you wear through them? Send them back. We’ll bring them back to life with a new soles, insoles and fresh laces. You can shop the YOLO sneaker now, in navy Nappa leather with your choice of sole and choice of regular or wide fit. 

Specs:

Upper - Nappa leather 1.4–1.6mm

Outsole - TPS 70 Shore A

Insole - Moulded footbed lined with Italian calf leather

Lining - Full-grain calf leather 1.2–1.4mm

Construction - Blake stitch (resoleable)

Extras - Breathable felt filler, padded tongue & heel, leather toe puff & heel counter

Made In - Sheffield, England

Sole Options - White, black, or gum