Do you bit for the planet with these stylish and sustainable sneakers.
Thanks to masterful advertising campaigns from the likes of Nike and Adidas, sneakers have developed from a relatively obscure fashion trend into a global phenomenon; their worldwide sales topped US$55 billion last year, with US$22 billion sold in America alone. But did you know that your favourite pair of Yeezy’s are also one of the largest contributors to global warming?
Not only is the leather used in sneaker production, vis-à-vis the agricultural industry, responsible for roughly 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, but even faux-leather alternatives are plastic-based and as noxious to our green earth. Feeling good about yourself, punk? Well, you can; here are our picks for sustainable yet stylish sneakers that’ll align with your moral compass.
VEJA “V-10” in White & Oxford Grey
These are a perfect everyday shoe; stylish enough to wear on a date, but also functional enough for running, the gym, or whatever trendy exercise you pretend to do. Made from organic cotton and fair-trade rubber, these sneakers are as socially-conscious as they are timeless.
This Indonesian brand has taken an innovative step in producing eco-friendly footwear; the soles of the Kota are constructed from upcycled car tires, which are practically nondecomposable and release toxic fumes when burnt in scrapyards. Not only are they eco-friendly, but their durable toecap and convenient side-zip make them ideal footwear for your next outdoor adventure.
Matt and Nat have been pioneers in the vegan eco-friendly fashion world and these shoes pay dividends to that fact – no animal products are used in their construction and the lining is made out of 100 percent recycled plastic. They’re stylish too; chunky sneakers are all the rage since the Balenciaga Triple S was released and now you can hop on the bandwagon with your conscience intact.
Part of Ecoalf’s ‘Ocean Waste’ line, these shoes’ fabric is made out of recycled plastic bottles collected from the Mediterranean Sea, while the sole is produced from algae instead of rubber (a primary culprit for deforestation). Not only do they look great, but their minimalist design means they can be paired with a more formal get up – just not with a suit you madman.
NAE (No Animal Exploitation) not only refrain from manufacturing processes which endanger
Adidas has teamed up with Parley, an eco-charity focused on the removal of plastic from our oceans. The fabric of these sneakers is manufactured using recycled waste, collected from beaches and coastal communities; each pair sold is said to save 11 plastic bottles before they reach the ocean. They’re cushioned, comfortable and lightweight.
This company uses responsibly sourced natural rubber and USDA certified organic cotton from Peru, but beyond that they purchase their materials directly from local tribes, and invest US$5 of each shoe sold into developing the healthcare and education of said communities. As comfortable as walking on a cloud, grab a pair and float up on your moral high-ground.
This Bali-based company really went the whole nine yards with this eco design: One hundred percent upcycled plastic fabric, water-based glues, organic cotton canvas, all natural dyes and beeswax treated laces all ensure that your foot never touches a non-natural material. The sneakers themselves are breathable and feature a specially cushioned sole for extra cosiness.
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