Factory shopping usually isn't our thing here at Islandstylebook. But when it has a cult following, then we run, don't walk to find it. Like the Camper Shoe Factory, in Inca on Mallorca.

Camper.com is not for everyone. Most of the shoes are casual. Some odd-looking. Many are sports oriented. Like their classic bowling shoe style for everyday. The colors can be loud. The styles offbeat. In other words, you'll either love 'em or hate 'em.

What we were looking for we didn't find. "Twins" (a pair of fraternal, not identical shoes) and "Wabis" (a molded, ultra-modern thong, based on a Japanese historical design). But what did we expect? This is a factory store. The newest collections aren't represented on the tables full of merchandise.

Disappointed? Not in the least. We found shoes at half-price and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves in the hip factory surroundings. Old Camper advertising posters covered the walls. The signage out front, including the Camper Truck, made it all so "campy." The store was crowded with shoppers, speaking various language. Everyone looked in hot pursuit of walking out with a pair of these shoes.

The Camper slogan reads: "Walk, don't Run." But don't believe it. If you get to Mallorca, run for the best selection. The experience of seeing real, island-made fashion known the world over is worth the trip. Even if you don't like the shoes.

But if you do like Campers, you must get your hands on their yearly "magalog," only available at retail Camper Stores or shops that carry them (not the factory). It's more than a visual record of their newest collections. Called "The Walking Society," the magazine-catalogue is a compilation of thoughts & photos embodying the company's philosophy. Reminiscent in ways of the "Whole Earth Catalogue" (if you remember that). About human cooperation towards improving the world.

You may not get into the cult of it all, but the entire Camper image is pretty unique in retailing. And, by the way, the shoes are very comfortable. (Stateside, there's a Camper Store on Prince St. in NYC & on Grant Ave. in San Francisco)