u/Myrcen17

I currently own two pairs of Goral trainers. One pair remains unworn in its original packaging, while the other, a green suede high-top model, was worn daily for two months during my wedding and subsequent honeymoon in Thailand. Following a report on Reddit regarding sole degradation, I inspected my pair and discovered similar cracking. Although the soles show minimal tread wear and remain structurally sound, the surface cracking is aesthetically concerning, and the seam at the back of the heal is also coming undone, leading me to discontinue their use. Its very inconvenient and such a shame given that these are my favorite pair. I am interested to know if this is a widespread issue among other customers?

Picked these up in one of Goral's mystery boxes a couple of years ago and they've became one of my favourite pairs.

I honestly don't know what leather this is. It's almost like a roughout or waxed olive/khaki suede/nubuck, but whatever it is, I love it. The colour is fantastic, they've developed some nice character, and they're surprisingly lightweight, which makes them ideal for hot summer days.

The only downside is that the seam at the heel has started to come apart a little. It's not a huge issue yet, but I'd rather get it sorted before it gets worse.

Does anyone know exactly what leather this is? And has anyone sent a pair back to Goral for repairs? Can they fix something like this if I ship them back?

Would love to hear your experiences.

I've found myself questioning the current vaccination programme, not because I reject science, but because I believe it's reasonable to ask whether the evidence and safety standards are as robust and transparent as they should be for products given to healthy babies and children.

One of my biggest concerns is the design of some vaccine safety trials. From what I've learned, many vaccines were evaluated using active comparators rather than inert saline placebos. Whether or not there are ethical reasons for doing that, I struggle with the idea that it may make it more difficult to distinguish vaccine-related adverse effects from background rates or from effects associated with the comparator. I'd genuinely like to understand why this approach should inspire the same level of confidence as an inert placebo-controlled trial.

I also struggle with trust. Pharmaceutical companies have, at times, been found guilty of misconduct, misleading marketing, and withholding important safety information. While that doesn't automatically invalidate every product they make, it does make me believe that healthy scepticism and independent scrutiny are warranted.

I believe the human immune system is incredibly capable, and I think there should be greater emphasis on overall health, nutrition, prevention, and researching both conventional and naturally derived therapies. Many modern medicines originated from compounds found in nature, and I wonder whether more attention should be given to those approaches alongside pharmaceutical ones.

What I find most difficult is balancing the risks. Every medical intervention has potential benefits and potential harms. As a parent, I'm the one who has to live with the consequences of whatever decision I make. That responsibility makes me want the highest possible standard of evidence and complete transparency.

I'm not claiming to have all the answers, and I'm willing to reconsider my views if presented with strong evidence. I'm simply asking whether my concerns are unreasonable, or whether it's fair for parents to ask difficult questions before consenting to medical interventions for their children.

I'm interested in thoughtful responses from people who disagree just as much as those who agree.

Finally got my hands on this beast! This black Citizen Ana-Digi Temp reissue was a birthday present to myself, but the journey here was a bit of a rollercoaster. It arrived two weeks later than expected, and I got hit with a nasty surprise of €70 in import fees on top of the purchase price. 😫

For a second, I was questioning if I made the right choice, but the moment I unboxed it? All is forgiven. Honestly, this watch looks the dog’s bollocks. 🐕✨

The retro-futuristic vibe is unmatched, and seeing that black case in person is something photos just don’t do justice. It’s rare to find something this unique that still feels so iconic to the 80s. Despite the shipping nightmares and the extra cost, I’m just glad it’s finally on my wrist.

Has anyone else dealt with crazy import fees on their Japanese watch imports? Was it worth it for you? Peace

Picked up this bright yellow GA-B2100C-9A because... why not go full sunshine mode? Then I went full modder: swapped it into an SKXMod stainless steel case + bracelet, threw on a killer rubber FMK band as backup, and had a sapphire crystal installed while adding luminous hour markers for that proper glow-up.

Now with just a screwdriver I'm rocking:

Full metal dress Casioak

Metal case + rubber strap beast mode

Or back to the original screaming yellow G-Shock rubber

Best part? It feels like owning three dope watches

Highly recommend the mod life, fellow Casioak degenerates.

What’s your current favorite 2100 mod setup?

Finally got my hands on the new olive/khaki green W-738H (W-738H-3AV) after preordering it from a shop in Paris. It dropped in May and I’ve been patiently (im)patiently waiting — anyone else have to sit through a preorder for this one, or did you score it right away?

The watch looks even better in person than the promo shots. That military green with the matching buttons and the big, crisp display is chef’s kiss. I threw a green filter on the screen for extra pop and it really ties the whole look together.

Here are a couple shots — one indoors and one out in the sun:

Specs-wise it’s packing the vibration alarm (which feels surprisingly strong), 10-year battery, 100m WR, and that comfy square case. Perfect daily beater energy.

Now I’m seriously tempted to hydromod it to push the water resistance even further. Has anyone here done a hydro mod on the new W-738H? How did it turn out? Would love to hear your thoughts before I dive in.

What do you all think of the watch in general? Overhyped or instant classic? Cheers Alex Myrcen