Our 60% Natural Tree Rubber Outsoles
SM SUSTAINABLE EFFORTS
We believe in transparency with our valued customers. That's why we want to take you through the incredible process behind our 60% tree rubber outsoles.
MEET THE FAMILY
The family-run factory is set in the mountains just outside Medellin. The ethical working conditions, breathtaking landscape and incredibly charismatic Fernando all contribute to our pride in the manufacturing process behind our outsoles.
WHAT IS NATURAL RUBBER?
Natural rubber is sourced and produced by sustainably tapping rubber trees in the Cauca region of Colombia. Each rubber tree has a lifespan of 30+ years, in which no tree is tapped continuously over its lifespan. New rubber trees are then planted in their place.
The rubber tree plantations we use were first planted on reclaimed land, having previously been used in the manufacturing process of narcotics.
THE PROCESS
Our natural rubber is collected from the local rubber tree farms we use and left to set. The raw material is then heated and mixed with power, to give its colour, and the synthetic rubber is added.
Our outsole moulds are recycled from the offcuts of previous aluminium outsole moulds, melted down and moulded into our signature sole designs. This process is repeated in the creation of our own outsole moulds.
The natural rubber is then compressed and heated at 200 degrees centigrade, left to cool, and takes the shape of our staple outsoles.
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS
Why is using a high percentage of natural rubber making a difference? The use of more natural materials that can be sustainably sourced means less use of harmful chemicals and synthetic rubber as a result.
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