
Founded in 1905, Gola is one of Britain’s oldest and most celebrated footwear brands. From its origins as a football boot manufacturer to becoming a global lifestyle brand, Gola has remained synonymous with quality, performance, and heritage. Over the decades, Gola has been a key player in both the sporting and fashion industries, producing footwear for professional athletes and everyday consumers alike.
Gola’s journey began with its strong foothold in football, supplying boots to players across the UK and beyond. The brand gained immense recognition in the 1960s and 70s, particularly when Liverpool FC wore Gola boots in the 1965 FA Cup final. As the company expanded, it introduced new styles beyond football, including track shoes, casual trainers, and athleisure wear. The iconic Harrier, first introduced in 1968, became a best-seller and is still a favourite today.
Despite facing challenges in the late 20th century due to increased competition, Gola successfully reinvented itself in the 1990s under the ownership of the Jacobson Group. The relaunch of its Classics Collection in 2000, inspired by retro designs, helped re-establish the brand’s presence in the fashion market. Gola’s collaborations with high-profile names such as Paul Weller, the Gallagher brothers, and Jude Law further cemented its status as a stylish and iconic British brand.
The rise of vegan trainers
In response to the growing demand for ethical and sustainable footwear, Gola launched its vegan trainer collection in 2019. This marked a significant milestone for the brand, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and sustainability while maintaining the high-quality craftsmanship it is known for.
Gola’s vegan trainers are registered with The Vegan Society, ensuring that no animal-derived materials or by-products are used in their production. The collection offers a variety of styles for both men and women, catering to those who seek cruelty-free fashion without compromising on style or comfort.
Men’s vegan trainers
Gola
Gola’s men’s vegan trainer range seamlessly blends timeless design with modern sustainability. The collection includes the Tennis Mark Cox, a retro-inspired plimsoll originally designed in 1975 for British tennis player Mark Cox. Featuring a classic off-white upper with signature Gola branding, this trainer is a staple for those looking to embrace vintage-inspired fashion.
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Other standout designs include:
• White vegan trainers – Minimalist, versatile, and effortlessly stylish, these trainers feature Gola’s classic wingflash detailing in a range of colour combinations.
• Black vegan trainers – Sleek and contemporary, perfect for casual and smart-casual looks.
• Heritage-inspired styles – Drawing from Gola’s archives, these trainers combine nostalgic aesthetics with modern materials.
Women’s vegan trainers
Gola
Gola’s women’s vegan collection is just as impressive, offering an array of styles, including hi-tops, plimsolls, and chunky trainers. The range ensures that customers can enjoy classic Gola designs in fully cruelty-free and sustainable materials.
Highlights from the collection include:
• Vegan hi-tops – Combining retro styling with contemporary comfort, these high-top trainers add a statement to any outfit.
• Plimsolls and tennis shoes – Inspired by Gola’s rich sporting heritage, these lightweight trainers are ideal for everyday wear.
• Exclusive collaborations – One standout piece is the Rally Cath Kidston LB Trainer, featuring a charming swallow print on a fresh, feminine silhouette.
Sustainability and ethical commitment
Beyond its vegan collection, Gola has taken active steps towards sustainability. The brand recently partnered with EvRi and JogOn to keep trainers out of landfills, encouraging customers to recycle their old footwear responsibly. This initiative aligns with Gola’s mission to offer stylish, high-quality trainers while reducing environmental impact.
As the brand celebrates 120 years in 2025, Gola continues to push boundaries, blending its sporting heritage with contemporary fashion trends. The rise of its vegan collection proves that sustainability and style can coexist, making Gola a leading choice for consumers who value both ethics and aesthetics.
From its humble beginnings as a football boot manufacturer to becoming a pioneer in vegan footwear, Gola’s journey is a testament to its ability to evolve while staying true to its heritage. Whether through its classic Harrier trainers or its innovative vegan range, Gola remains a symbol of British craftsmanship, quality, and timeless style.
If you enjoy our articles and want to read more of our content, check out clean, green and cruelty-free: Ireland is leading the way with vegan beauty. Perhaps take a look at running on plants: Harvey Lewis on ultra endurance, veganism and inspiring change. Or explore o Gambuzino Burger Clube: Lisbon’s new vegan hotspot for burger lovers.
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