Gilman Camp Moc

The Gilman Camp Moc exemplifies the traditional camp moccasin style, an iconic American handsewn design that incorporates elements from various moccasin types. It features horizontal lacing around the throat similar to boat shoes, but lacks quarters for lacing, giving it characteristics of both loafers and slippers. Built using Horween Chromexcel leather that undergoes at least 89 different processes, the shoe embodies Maine's traditional handcrafted moccasin-making heritage.

The Gilman Camp Moc utilizes genuine handsewn moccasin construction, representing traditional American craftsmanship techniques. The manufacturing process involves skilled Maine shoemakers who cut and sew each component through more than 100 meticulous steps. True moccasin construction contributes to the shoe's distinctive ease and comfort, eliminating the need for a break-in period.

The design features horizontal lacing around the throat opening, a characteristic element of camp moccasins that distinguishes them from other handsewn styles. Unlike boat shoes with quarters for lacing, the Gilman maintains a cleaner aesthetic while providing adjustable fit through its throat lacing system. This design represents the distinctly American evolution of Native American footwear traditions.

Rancourt constructs the Gilman Camp Moc using Horween Chromexcel leather, which undergoes an extensive tanning process involving at least 89 different steps. The Heritage Brown Leather upper remains unlined to enhance breathability and conform to the wearer's foot shape. This construction choice aligns with traditional summer footwear requirements while maintaining durability.

The shoe features antique brass eyelets and chestnut leather laces that complement the Heritage Brown Leather upper. These material choices reflect both aesthetic considerations and functional requirements for outdoor summer wear. The combination creates a cohesive appearance while ensuring long-term durability under regular use.

The Gilman Camp Moc features Rancourt's exclusive signature Made in USA camp-moc soles, utilizing proprietary rubber compounds developed specifically for the company. These soles are described as significantly more comfortable than typical Vibram camp soles, providing lightweight and flexible performance designed for immediate comfort.

The sole design eliminates the traditional break-in period associated with many heritage footwear styles, allowing wearers to experience comfort from first use. This immediate comfort results from the combination of true moccasin construction and the specialized sole compound, making the shoe suitable for extended wear during summer activities.

Rancourt & Co. founded in Maine in 1967 by David Rancourt, operated almost exclusively as a premium moccasin manufacturer until the company's relaunch in 2009. This heritage provides the foundation for the Gilman Camp Moc's authentic construction methods and commitment to traditional Maine craftsmanship.

All manufacturing takes place in Maine using materials built to last generations, with each pair handmade, hand-sewn, and personally inspected by the Rancourt family. This approach maintains the traditional handcrafted moccasin-making heritage that has distinguished Maine as a center for camp moccasin production. The state's particularly strong heritage in camp moccasin manufacturing influences the Gilman's design and construction philosophy.

The Gilman Camp Moc retails for $288.00, positioning it within the premium heritage footwear market alongside other authentic American-made moccasins. This pricing reflects the extensive handwork involved in construction and the use of premium materials throughout the manufacturing process.

The model has been featured in special collaborations, including "The Coggins Gilman Camp Moc" developed with David Coggins. These collaborations maintain the same construction standards while incorporating unique styling elements, highlighting how heritage craftsmanship can integrate with contemporary design considerations without compromising traditional quality.