Remyxx it good
So, Remyxx Sneakers are set to become the worlds first manufacturer of 100 percent recyclable shoes. This is good, right? I am personally kinda surprised these don’t already exist, but it’s not as if I have the scientific knowhow to create a pair sooooo I can probably just keep quiet. They are manufactured using a unique mix of materials that look and feel like canvas and rubber but are made entirely from a special blend of lab certified recyclable materials.
Turns out making totally recyclable shoes isn’t super cheap. Remyxx are currently fund-raising via the crowd funding website, Kickstarter, the somewhat precise sum of $39,697 needed to “purchase material, build inventory and create new designs.” Initially I was a little skeptical about Gagnon’s funding method – getting a load of people to pay for it in the hope that doing so would increase their eco credit and could thus continue to drive their 4x4s in peace – but, I’ve kinda changed my mind. Gagnon says he choose to use Kickstarter because “I love the idea of letting the public get involved… I want to share my dream to change the way we think about sneakers and green-living with the world”. The pledges on Kickstarter effectively act as a pre-sale.
It’s looking likely that Remyxx will surpass the sum they pledged. If you’d like to support them and get yourself one of the first ever pairs of 100 percent recyclable, completely Landfill-Free Sneakers™ (oh America you do love a trademark) then you can do so via their Kickstarter page, until June 25th. They are nice looking sneakers: cute, wearable. See?
Personally I wouldn’t have stamped a load of recycling logos all over them, although yes, I know, hipsters do love a triangle. I think ethical fashion needs to stop wearing its ethical credentials like a badge, it can be too much, and ultimately, off-putting to the layman.
Then again I also think the dream would be to take this innovative design to one of the big brands and have Reebok or Nike roll them out across the globe which would in turn enact some serious effect. But I’m guessing I’m a little alone in that dream…
I don’t think you’re entirely alone thinking that the bigger brands would do something like this. One of the Sharks on Shark Tank mentioned just that. I think this is inspiring and alludes to the fact that the American dream is still alive. Gagnon saw a problem and created a solution, along with some pretty cool kicks!
I like his Kickstarter campaign also (http://kck.st/IlpbHN) and love the fact that I can get a pair first before a lot of other people when they finish the campaign.
Totally agree with you Tim. In fact Gucci have quite recently announced the launch of Sustainable Soles, a special edition of eco-friendly women’s and men’s shoes… demonstrating that the bigger brands are starting to take heed. Enjoy your shoes, send us a pic when you get them!