Hot Damn: Namibia’s Coolest Desert Boots Finally Arrive Stateside

Not a news flash: Good-looking shoes are awesome. But it's definitely a plus when they're also comfortable, durable, and whimsical, to boot. And for the Namibian shoe company Herbert Schier, it's check, check, and...check! This recent U.S.-import line has been gaining great traction for its hand-crafted Velskoen boots — usually referred to as "vellies" — and now their famous desert boots are more accessible than ever.

The 74-year-old African brand seems to be making some big changes before it hits its three-quarters-of-a-century mark. Herbert Schier has recently shot its very first lookbook, and, much to our delight, expanded to the States with a newly launched collection of exclusive "vellies" sold at Opening Ceremony.

This heritage brand may be inspired by the traditional footwear of the local Khoikhoi tribe, but trust — the designs are anything but dated. (Just feast your eyes on the neon toe caps and leopard-print leather.) If our own praise for these modern-classic kicks isn't enough to convince, the incredibly happy models of Swakopmund, Namibia may be the ultimate endorsement for these local fashion treasures making international waves.

Don't let another 74 years pass you by. Shop adult and kid-sized styles from Herber Schier at Opening Ceremony now.