The Shoe

The Russell Oneida has been continuously produced since the early 1900's. During WWI and the following years of the Dirigible's use in the military, the Oneida was purchased by the U.S. Army for the workers building airships. The smooth but tough molded leather outsoles were essential to prevent any tears in the fabric skin as the balloons were produced.

After more than 100 years, we have found quite a few more uses for this utilitarian design. The heavyweight bullhide leather Molded Sole provides plenty of protection while maintaining excellent ground-feel. This is no inside-only slipper. With 3/8" of leather underfoot, it is designed to be worn outside. From walking the dog to airport travel, you'll find endless uses for this ridiculously comfortable shoe. Factory re-soleable. Built on the 77 last.

The Leather

The Shearling Oneida is an exhibition of American tanneries. The Rust Laramie Roughout leather is tanned at the famous Horween tannery in Chicago. Strong and soft, Rust Laramie is easy to take care of. The collar and trim is made from American Bison from Law Tanning in Milwaukee. A Bullhide slip sole and molded sole underfoot (over 16 ounces of leather) provide the bulk of the structure to the Oneida. Our Bullhide is tanned by Seidel in Milwaukee.