About Astral Designs
In 1999 Philip Curry, Astral Founder + CEO, sold his first business to Patagonia, traveled, and then became a biodynamic farmer. A question lingered: Could he protect more land and water by farming a small farm, or by getting back into the outdoor equipment business?
In 2002 Astral began on a biodynamic farm outside of Asheville, NC in the headwaters of the Rocky Broad River. Astral introduces four life jackets made from PVC alternatives; recyclable polyethylene, phthalate free NBR, air, and organic kapok (derived from trees).
Over the years Astral pioneered PFD design, with new materials, technologies and features, creating some of the best PFDs on the market, such as their famous Green Jacket.
In 2012 they started producing river footwear, introducing four ultra performance shoes named for the working class of Porters, Bakers, Brewers, and Rasslers. They all used 5.10 rubber soles, ~70% less glue, and no heat to manufacture. Kayakers and raft guides destroy them. Astral’s first shoe, the Brewer™ wins Outside Magazine’s Gear of the Year Award. After 3 years of testing to surpass the high benchmark set by 5.10, Astral introduces their proprietary compound, G Rubber™, in the outsoles of our shoes. A year later Astral introduces the Loyak™. Raft guides, kayakers and minimalist shoe enthusiasts immediately fall in love with its low volume, high performance, superlative grip and chilled out looks.
Since then, Astral have continued to push the boundaries of performance and comfort in all of their products.
Caring for your Astral shoes
To get the most of our your Astral shoes you should rinse them with fresh water after each use and let them dry fully before storing them. Some models have removeable insoles, which should be taken out so you can rinse your shoes out and dry them more easily.
If your shoes have become especially dirty or smelly, and rinsing won't cut it, then you can give them bath in warm water with some mild laundry detergent or dish soap. Remove your laces and insoles first for easier cleaning. An old toothbrush can help with stubborn areas. After cleaning, dry all parts separately, and then reassemble once dry.
