Jul 07, 2023

Interview mahabis' Head of Design: The dreamer collection

Last month, mahabis launched our dreamer collection. The dreamer sandal and dreamer slide epitomises our commitment to technological advancements, innovative design, and uncompromising comfort.

We sat down with our Head of Design Menashe to discuss how he developed the collection, from his initial concepts, evolving the design, to how he ensured the mahabis brand DNA remained recognisable during the transition into outdoor shoes.

You have worked in the footwear industry for over 16 years, can you tell us a bit about how creating the new dreamer collection at mahabis compares to other projects you have had in the past?

"With every brand, I really believe that it is fundamental to have a strong DNA to have a recognisable impact in the market. The truth to a successful product is simplicity, fun and comfort, in my eyes. mahabis is unique and has a contemporary feel which gives me the opportunity to explore new technologies and concepts."

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your new designs?

"For the new mahabis range, I have explored taking iconic silhouettes and incorporating the brand DNA. An example of this is seen in the dreamer sandal style. The upper is based on a classic fisherman sandal silhouette, paired with a new outsole with technology called EnergyFlow™"

What sets the dreamer collection apart from existing designs in the market?

"The dreamer collection is an inclusive and unisex product, available in a number of pop colours to add a fun and exciting addition to any wardrobe."

What factors did you consider when designing the sandal for comfort and durability?

"The dreamer sandal is produced with a soft upper, that is designed and engineered to give easy flexibility and comfort. Our iconic neoprene heel cradle presents an additional level of fit and overall cushioning. The style also includes a functional pull tab for easy and quick access."

How did you incorporate the latest fashion trends into your sandal design whilst also creating something with originality?

"I didn't! Haha! The design of the styles are completely unique to mahabis and are settling an individual stream in the market. I did however align with colours that are modern and complimentary to trend pallets."

Can you walk us through the design process from the initial concepts to the final product?

"The design started from the outsole. We wanted to engineer the key concepts of lightweight, low profile and barefoot feeling. The EnergyFlow™ enhances all levels of comfort, aids energy return and gives soft all-day wear."

mahabis has for many years been known solely as a slipper brand, how did you find the process of creating an outdoor shoe collection whilst also staying true to Mahabis' brand values and image?

"The Mahabis slipper is a multi-functional product and suitable for home-wear or outdoor-wear so it wasn't such a leap to go to a solely outdoor range. It was important to me that the new styles are just as multi-functional as our iconic mahabis slipper."

Were there any specific challenges you faced during the design process, and how did you overcome them?

"The main challenge was to ensure the brand DNA and design handwriting were encompassed within the new styles but still keeping true to the simplicity, fun and comfort of dreamer concepts. These are values that I will continue to reference for new styles to come!"