Woolloomooloo makes digitally knitted sneakers from fine Australian merino wool. According to our collection page, it was founded in 2020 by Paul and James, two Australians with more than 40 years of combined footwear experience, and an interview with co-founder James Rowley confirms a June 2020 launch with Paul Robins. At Sole Provisions, the Woolloomooloo collection includes men's and women's merino sneakers, slip ons, and scuffs, and it sits naturally beside our wider women's sneakers, men's sneakers, and walking shoes selections.
Wool is usually associated with sweaters and socks, so a wool sneaker can sound unusual. Merino is a fine, soft wool that is used in outdoor clothing because it feels comfortable against the skin and works across a range of temperatures, and Woolloomooloo applies it to a lightweight, flexible sneaker upper. The sections below explain how the shoes are made, what to expect from the fit and feel, and how to choose a style.
Two Australians and a Big Idea
Our collection page says the founders saw that the footwear industry struggled to find truly eco friendly materials and chose Australia's best known export as the answer. In an interview, co-founder James Rowley describes working in the shoe industry since 2000, including leading the revival of the Kork-Ease brand and serving as CEO of Mephisto. That background shapes a brand that treats merino as a practical foundation rather than a slogan. If you enjoy design led, sustainable minded sneakers, you may also like Veja, Woden, and Kizik.
Superfine Australian Merino
The brand sources superfine merino from Australian wool growers and spins it into thread. Merino is known for being soft, breathable, and temperature regulating, which is why it appears in socks and base layers as well as shoes. Comfort depends on the fit and on your feet, so try a pair if you can. Check each product page for the materials in your style.
Digitally Knitted Construction
The thread is knitted by digital machines to form the upper, which the brand says produces little waste. Our collection page explains that this knitted construction stays flexible and breathable, unlike traditional boiled wool. A knitted upper moves with the foot, so there are fewer seams that can rub. It also means the shoe may feel more like a sock than a structured leather sneaker, which many people enjoy for travel and casual wear.
Breathable and Washable
The shoes are described as breathable and machine washable. Washing instructions matter for wool, so follow the care label that comes with your pair, use a gentle cycle if it allows, and let the shoes air dry away from direct heat. Rotating pairs helps each pair stay fresh between wears. For extra care products, browse our shoe care collection.
Sneakers, Slip Ons, and Scuffs
The collection includes the Coogee, Engadine, and Suffolk styles, along with the Coogee GT Trek, Coogee GT Slip, and Coogee Breeze Scuff. A lace up sneaker gives a secure fit for walking, a slip on is quick to wear, and a scuff is easy around the house or for casual days. Colors include Jet, Ecru, Taupe, Natural, Navy, and Denim. Browse more in our women's sneakers, men's sneakers, and walking shoes. Pair them with women's socks or men's socks. The collection has several pages, so check availability.
Adding Support
If you use inserts or orthotics, check whether the style has a removable insole, then explore our shoe inserts and arch support shoes. For medical questions about your feet, check with a healthcare professional.
Choosing the Right Fit
Width and sizing details are not listed on the collection page, so check each product page and try a pair in store when you can. Knitted shoes can stretch slightly with wear, so choose a size that feels comfortable but not loose. If you need more room, browse our wide width shoes. For a personal fitting, visit one of our Sole Provisions locations, or read more in our educational hub. Try shoes later in the day, when feet tend to be fullest.
A Few Woolloomooloo Details Worth Knowing
-
Merino wool sneakers founded in 2020, according to our collection page.
-
Co-founded by James Rowley and Paul Robins, according to an interview with Rowley.
-
Superfine Australian merino uppers.
-
Digitally knitted construction.
-
Breathable and machine washable, according to our collection page.
-
Styles include Coogee, Engadine, and Suffolk.
-
Styles and availability change often.
-
Free shipping on orders over $75, see our shipping policy and returns page.
Explore More Sustainable and Comfort Sneakers
If you like Woolloomooloo, compare it with Veja for sustainable minded sneakers, Woden for cork lined Scandinavian sneakers, Kizik for hands free styles, Skechers for cushioned comfort, or New Balance for versatile fits. Check new arrivals and sale items for the latest styles and markdowns.
Related Collections: Women's Sneakers · Men's Sneakers · Walking Shoes · Wide Width Shoes · Veja · Woden · Kizik · Shoe Care
Sale
Sale
