In today’s post, I want to shine the spotlight on a brand that’s making some pretty cool shoes out of recycled plastic water bottles. That’s right. Stick around.
Okay, welcome back. It’s great to see you and as always, I’m glad you’re here. So like I mentioned, I want to talk about a brand that I’m actually pretty excited about because I believe in what they’re doing. So, traditionally shoe manufacturers make the bulk of their shoes out of leather or cotton. And from what I understand, the manufacturing process isn’t all that great for the environment.
So what if we could use alternative materials, like recycled plastic water bottles, recycled rubber and recycled cork to make shoes? Not only that, but what if a shoe like that could look, feel and perform just like anything else you’re currently used to?
Well, it’s possible. The brand is called Nothing New and they partnered up with me with me in this video to help spread the word about their new sneakers that just launched on June 27th 2019. You guys know me and you know I don’t talk about stuff I don’t like, and there’s really a lot to like about these shoes. The uppers, laces and footbed are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic. Also, 5.6 plastic water bottles repurposed per pair and 160 fewer gallons of water per pair is used vs standard cotton!
Most cup sole sneakers are either cemented or vulcanized. Vulcanized sneakers create a lot of carbon and sulfur fumes, and the shoes are typically less flexible. Nothing New is made with true stitch construction which makes for a more flexible and more comfortable shoe while eliminating the environmental waste associated with vulcanized or glue-heavy shoes.
The outsole is made from recycled industrial rubber, pure natural rubber, and recycled cork. While the bulk of the outsole is made from recycled material, natural rubber is used in high impact areas (bottom, front, back of outsole) this ensure traction performance and longevity. Even the heel counters and the internal support inside the shoe, is made from 100% recycled fishing nets!
The other cool thing is, they have this virtuous circle program. Essentially, when you don’t want them anymore, you can ship them back to the company, and they’ll either put the materials back into the supply chain or donate them to charity, depending on the condition. And they’ll give you $20 your next pair.
They offer both men’s and women’s styles in low top and high top in several different colors. I’m loving mine and they’ll definitely be a staple for me this summer. If you’re interested in checking them out, I’ll leave the website link to Nothing New right here.
Good! Good! Good!!!
I really like the idea of the recyclable content…and the shoes look great…but the big question I have is just how “breathable” are they? They really don’t address this issue on their website (at least not that I could find). I perspire a lot…which is why I cannot clothes or footwear with substantial polyester content (plus, they just get way too hot in Texas weather). I’ve tried various other types of shoes—rubber, cork, faux leathers, etc.—and just keep having to come back to leather or cotton because my feet end up sweating too much. How are they working for you?
They only ship within the U.s. not really the future of shoes imo