Continually inspired to build on our sustainability initiatives and create meaningful impact, our thoughtfully designed and meticulously crafted collection of responsible vegan footwear reflects our on-going commitment to align with 21st century lifestyles and principles and contribute to building a more sustainable future.
Considerately Designed
Vegan
Crafted from plant-based, organic cactus leather and incorporating recycled materials, our ambitious collection of responsible vegan trainers seamlessly blends innovative materials with a timeless aesthetic and represents a groundbreaking moment for the broader fashion and footwear industry.
Exceptional Comfort
Beyond-the-norm comfort remains our top priority. We prioritise a supportive and protective fit, complemented by luxuriously lined, contoured, and generously cushioned footbeds. Our shock-absorbing rubber sole, injected with recycled cork, further enhances an overall sense of comfort and well-being.
Eco Craftsmanship
From the production of raw materials in supporting industries to the hand-crafting of our footwear by local artisans in Portugal, we feel fortunate to have a positive impact on local communities. Our initiative plays a crucial role in job creation and preserving the art of handmade footwear, whilst contributing to sustainable, local economic growth.
Why Cactus?
Our Raw Materials
The Cactus for our plant-based leather alternative is grown in México, in the state of Zacatecas. During harvest, only the mature leaves of the cacti are cut, without causing damage or harm to the cactus itself. Natural rain water is sufficient in keeping the plants watered, therefore no irrigation system is necessary - which otherwise could contribute to excessive water usage and soil displacement.
The cactus leather is manufactured in Italy.
Cactus Plantation Benefits
Each cactus plantation lasts for about 8 years, making it perennial, unlike other plantations such as corn, which have to be cultivated, harvested and then cultivated again annually.
Cactus plants can grow in dry conditions due to being a CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) plant. It's metabolism protects water and therefore doesn’t operate during the daytime - generating chlorophyll as most plants do. Instead, Cactus absorbs CO2 during the night, as only when the environment is fresh, the plant opens it's stoma capturing CO2, generating oxygen and absorbing water present in the atmosphere which normally comes from the morning dew.
Environmental Production Impact
No trees are cut down to prepare ground surface for the cactus plantation. Instead, the native cactus from the region matches the biodiversity of the area and blends with wild flora. This creates a harmonious sanctuary for animals such as Hawks. The plantation is managed with natural techniques and is fully organic, with no herbicides or pesticides used, helping to support the micro-flora and micro-fauna in the ground.
Once the mature leaves are selected and cut, they are dried under the sun for three days, meaning that there is no additional energy used in this drying process. Any remaining organic cactus material that remains is repurposed within the food industry.