Allbirds, the eco-friendly shoe company originating from New Zealand, has released its latest innovation, the Plant Pacer sneaker, its first plant-based sneaker.
The brand has teamed up with material innovation company Natural Fiber Welding (NFW) to create Mirum – a “truly sustainable alternative leather” – which is made entirely of natural materials like rubber, plant oils, and agricultural by-products, such as rice hulls and citrus peels.
Along with Mirum, the Plant Pacer also features Tencel Lyocell – Allbird’s eucalyptus tree-based material and SweetFoam – a naturally produced green EVA.
Ashley Comeaux, Allbirds VP of product design, said that the Pacer represents the next generation of their brand, contributing to a community of consciously minded leaders who can wear their values on their feet as a wardrobe staple.
Tim Brown, Allbirds co-founder and co-CEO, wants to put an end to using dirty synthetics and unsustainable leather.
“For way too long, fashion companies have relied on dirty synthetics and unsustainable leather, putting established ways of doing things and costs before the environment,” added Brown.
“We wanted to put an end to that, which led us to create the Plant Pacer. Through the innovative use of natural materials, like plant leather and others, we’re going to continue stretching the limits of sustainable footwear.”
The Pacer debuts in two materials: plant leather and canvas.
- Recommended reading: Sustainable steps: sneakers that won’t cost the planet.
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