Can 1.7 million Girl Scouts of America (GSUSA) be wrong? Specifically, can the approximately 200 million boxes of cookies these girls sell annually, generating about $800 million in revenue, not signal the mouthwatering potential of the new Girls Scouts x Western Chief cookie-themed rain boots collaboration? Washington Shoe Company, makers of Western Chief, believe the recipe has huge potential.
CEO Karl Moehring cites the two entities’ rich American heritage—one steeped in the love of fun and adventure—as a key ingredient. GSUSA is 110 years old and Western Chief is 131. “The collection pairs GSUSA’s adventurous spirit with Western Chief’s fourth generation, family footwear heritage and signature whimsical prints,” he says. “It’s built to evoke smiles.”
The debut collection, for back-to-school, features three kids’ and two adult styles, including an “It’s Raining Cookies” mommy and me set (SRP $55 and $45, respectively). Adorned with classic Girl Scout cookies, the kids’ boot features mint glossy waterproof uppers with brown EverGlitter infused trimmings and lug outsoles, while easy on/off pull handles promote self-dressing. The mommy style features single side buckles accented with silver rivets. Both feature a removable insole for padded comfort.
The Neon Neoprene boot ($70) features a WarmBuilt lining for protection up to -20°F. Bright capital letters spell “girl scouts” with neon pink and blue piping against matte ebony. The matte ebony outsole includes a pop of blue detailing, while removable memory foam insoles provide warmth and comfort. The adult Legacy Danielle ($60) is a mid-height classic duck boot in navy with a smooth matte finish. A blue trefoil pattern across a navy shaft, tan PU/leather lace up tie detailing with metal rivets and a gum rubber tan outsole round out the look. The boot features a printed polyester fleece lining and removable insole.
Additional styles and ponchos will be introduced next spring as part of the multi-year partnership. “Our designers are munching on thin mints and tagalongs, hard at work on the next ideas,” Moehring says, noting that a portion of sales will support GSUSA and its non-profit efforts. “We look forward to evolving this partnership with GSUSA, an organization that aligns with our mission to support strong, independent women.” Moehring adds, “We proudly support GSUSA’s mission to build girls of courage, confidence and character, and who make the world a better place.”
