Photos courtesy Astral
Astral has staked its claim in the footwear category, growing since its founding in 2002 to specialize in high-performance outdoor styles. In a push to expand its collection to meet the demands of its growing community, Astral innovated two year-round mountain living shoes – the Donner and Tinker. The Independently owned and operated company will debut these all-weather 2016 kicks at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market (ORWM).
“We’ve developed a following that love our shoes for the balanced geometry, amazing grip, versatility and water readiness, but when the weather gets cold, they find that their Astral shoes are really made for spring and summer,” said Astral President, Philip Curry.
Built off the brand’s best-selling style, the Brewer, the Donner and Tinker focus on balance, traction, and weather resistance. Curry added, “The Donner and Tinker expand our multisport collection so our customers can enjoy Astral shoes during all four seasons.”
The Donner and Tinker are named after Donner Summit and Tinker Knob — two notably scenic landmarks along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) in the Sierra Backcountry. While the Donner Summit is a legendary outdoor playground for trekkers in the spring and summer, in the winter it becomes the breeding ground for ski pros. Tinker Knob, which is nothing more than a granite rock outcropping, was selected as Astral inspiration for its protection against the headwaters of the North Fork of the American River – home to kayaking’s class V run, the Royal Gorge.
Tinker
Tinker
Both the Donner and Tinker are packed with Astral’s high friction, non-marking GRubber Agro soles, Balanced Geometry closed cell EVA foam midsole that is removable, and a Hydrophobic Canvas upper with welded reinforcements at the heel, toe and eyestay. These shoes are durable yet extremely flexible and lightweight at 9.17oz. Both are scheduled to hit retail shelves Fall 2016, MSRP $99.
Astral’s naming took time and care, as the brand sought an inspiring and true to performance title for their all-weather firsts. The Donner is durable and able to transition through the seasons. The Tinker is stylish and comfortable, whole being able to handle rugged peaks and knobs with ease and agility. Easy as that.
