How Can You Sustainably Produce Quality Sneakers?

Nothing looks and feels as good as sneakers. They are great for casual days at the office, or if you want to run errands around the neighborhood. They are even a good choice for weekend treks or to pair up with snazzy dresses.

However, how can you make your favorite footwear sustainable? It may be a difficult task to find sustainable trainers as most of these shoes are made up of toxic chemicals and harmful plastics. However, certain brands are changing the way we look at sustainable and fashionable footwear.

These companies are changing things one at a time. The topmost priority is making everything sustainable, right from materials to production. However, we would certainly like to know, what things are changing in the world of sustainable sneakers. Read on to find out more about how to make the perfect sustainable sneaker!

Ensure The Use of Biodegradable Materials

Companies such as Po-Zu are creating 100% sustainable sneakers. The material they use is natural and they even source their rubber from Fairtrade rubber, an association dealing with products made from natural rubber.

Even their comfortable soles are made up of coconut husk, ensuring a super comfortable footbed, almost like that of a mattress.

Coir, a natural fiber extracted from the outer husk of the coconut, is a good addition to the list of ingredients that make sustainable products. It is heat and water-resistant and also provides good insulation. These sustainable sneakers are good for both men and women.

Say No to Plastic

You buy a pair of good-looking sneakers and rush home to try them on – you have been there, you have done that! However, have you ever read the questionable ingredients mentioned on the carton? Have you ever wondered what a pair of sneakers can do to environmental toxic-load?

Well, if you ever get to find what makes a fashionable sneaker – it’s lots and lots of plastic. No wonder they are cheap, but they create havoc on the environment. Well, don’t worry now. If you look hard enough, you will find soles that are made up of 100% Fairtrade rubber, it is all-natural and supportive of the environment we live in.

A Sneaker Range for Everyone

Most sustainable sneakers are expensive which makes it difficult for everyone to buy them. However, some companies are catering to conscious consumers so they don’t have to dig too deep into their pockets to buy a sustainable brand. Thus, making it easier for them to shift from the mainstream trainer brands to sustainable brands.

Thankfully, we can now find a vegan version of our favorite footwear which also comes at competitive prices. These companies tap into the thriving market where you don’t have to spend a lot to look good.

The Impact of Sneakers on the Environment

While we don’t know about the environmental impact of fashion, a study revealed that the production of a pair of trainers emits as much as 13kg of carbon dioxide. The materials include nylon, leather, synthetic rubber, plastic, and viscose, which can take an environmental toll.

Sneakers have a high carbon footprint as their production includes steps such as foaming, injection molding, heating, cutting, and sewing. Most of the countries where these shoes come from depend on fossil fuels, thus creating an ecological imbalance.

Ethical Fashion, A Way Forward

Most sneakers usually use synthetic rubber in the soles. It mostly includes things like petroleum byproducts that are again treated with toxic chemical compounds.

Like some of the other synthetic materials, manufacturing rubber can use a lot of energy and water, and create a lot of waste. As the soles start to wear down, the chemicals can leach from the shoe. The next best bet, or only bet, is to look for natural or wild rubber – cultivated to help in afforestation.

Combating With Climate Change

Some of the footwear industries are looking for ways to channelize sustainability. They are waking up to the problems of climate change and this can be a great cause of concern for everyone. The only way to deal with this is to focus on sustainable methods. While you may think your step towards sustainability is small, it may contribute greatly to the larger scheme of things.

If you, your neighbor, and your friend start buying these products, there will be greater demand for the same. Thus, creating better chances for the production of these environment-friendly sneakers!