Sportswear giant Reebok has debuted its first plant-based sneaker made from algae and other natural materials.
The Forever Floatride GROW sneakers, which took three years to develop, feature a eucalyptus upper, algae sock liner, natural rubber outsole, and ‘the hero of the plant-based mission’ – a midsole comprised of castor beans.
‘Detox the world’
“The earth is a runner’s arena, and we have a responsibility to help detox the world for the athletes who run in it,” said Matt O’Toole, Reebok Brand President.
“Our consumers have told us they want more sustainable products, and the running community has been the most vocal and passionate on this issue. We want to help runners perform at their best, while also feeling good about the products they wear.”
‘No compromise’
According to Design Boom, Bill Mcinnis, Vice President of Reebok future, said the sneakers, which will be available to purchase by Fall next year, ‘replace oil-based plastic with plants’.
“We heard loud and clear that the idea of a plant-based running shoe resonates strongly with serious runners but those same runners felt just as emphatically that they would never compromise on performance,” he added.
“The Forever Floatride GROW is the result: plant-based performance – with no compromise.”