Gola Footwear: A Century in The Making

The Remarkable Journey of Gola

In the crowded landscape of sportswear and fashion, few brands have a story as compelling as Gola’s. Born in 1905 in the heart of Britain, Gola’s evolution from a small family-run business to an internationally celebrated icon mirrors the ebbs and flows of 20th and 21st-century history. Rooted in craftsmanship, resilience, and an uncanny ability to reinvent itself, Gola’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of heritage and innovation.

From Humble Beginnings

Gola’s genesis lies in the quiet, determined pursuit of quality football boots. Registered by Joseph Leeson & Sons, the brand quickly gained traction among athletes, becoming synonymous with performance and durability. Its early years, however, were marked by formidable challenges. By the 1930s, the company faced the dual blows of the Great Depression and the tumult of World War II, temporarily halting production.

Yet, like many great British institutions, Gola endured. Purchased by William Botterill & Sons, the brand re-emerged stronger, producing football and rugby boots that became staples for professional athletes. Despite another setback during WWII, when sports manufacturing was suspended, Gola’s reputation for quality never wavered.

Gola's Golden Age: 1960s-1970s

The mid-20th century marked Gola’s ascent to iconic status. During the 1960s, the brand diversified into track shoes and training footwear, culminating in the launch of the "Harrier" in 1968. Designed by Fred Dilley, this versatile white leather trainer with a distinctive wingflash became an instant classic. Suitable for multiple sports, it resonated with both professional athletes and style-conscious consumers, selling thousands weekly.

Gola’s golden era extended into the 1970s, with its bags becoming ubiquitous as school essentials and physio staples on football pitches. Collaborations with sporting legends, such as Liverpool FC’s Bill Shankly and England manager Alf Ramsey, bolstered its credibility. The Harrier and the Gola bag were not just products; they were cultural phenomena.

Challenges in the Modern Era

As the 1980s dawned, Gola faced an industry transformed by globalization. Brands like Nike and Adidas, with their sleek marketing strategies and global reach, posed stiff competition. Gola responded with innovative sponsorships, such as the Conference League and even the fictional football star Roy Race of "Roy of the Rovers" fame. Yet, financial pressures persisted, and by 1983, the company was on the brink of collapse.

Rescued by William Lamb & Co., Gola reimagined itself for a new generation. The brand tapped into emerging trends, targeting women with its GolaRobics line and embracing the burgeoning athleisure movement. It wasn’t smooth sailing—Gola struggled to compete with the street credibility of global giants—but the seeds of its revival were sown.

Gola's Renaissance: A Nod to the Past

The turning point came in 1996 when Harvey Jacobson’s Jacobson Group acquired Gola. Jacobson understood the unique charm of Gola’s history. By resurrecting iconic designs from its archives, the brand tapped into a wave of nostalgia sweeping the fashion world. The Gola Classics collection debuted in 2000, featuring retro-styled footwear and apparel that celebrated its heritage while appealing to modern sensibilities. The collection’s success was immediate, propelling Gola to new heights.

Celebrities like Paul Weller, the Gallagher brothers, and Jude Law embraced the brand, reinforcing its relevance in pop culture. Collaborations with Liberty Arts Fabrics in 2013 and Engineered Garments in 2024 added layers of sophistication, blending classic craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics.

Gola's Commitment to Sustainability and the Future

Gola’s evolution isn’t just a story of reinvention; it’s one of responsibility. Recognizing the growing demand for ethical fashion, the brand launched a vegan footwear range in 2019, earning certification from The Vegan Society. In 2023, its partnership with JogOn and EvRi aimed to reduce waste by keeping sneakers out of landfills. These initiatives align with a broader commitment to sustainability, ensuring that Gola remains relevant not just to consumers, but to the planet.

Celebrating 120 Years

As Gola marks its 120th anniversary in 2025, it stands as a rare blend of past and present—a brand that honours its history while embracing the future. From the legendary Harrier to its modern collaborations, Gola continues to defy trends, offering timeless products that resonate across generations.

Investing in Gola is more than buying a pair of trainers; it’s owning a piece of British heritage. With its roots firmly planted in craftsmanship, loyalty, and authenticity, Gola’s journey is a reminder that resilience and innovation go hand in hand. For a brand that began in a small factory in 1905, the sky truly is the limit.