Active recovery shoe producer Kane Footwear, whose bio-based foam Revive Slip-on became available during a presale launch on Kickstarter in February, has created a special, limited edition of the shoe in honour of Earth Day. Normally available in six different colour combinations, the limited edition is in a new Wasabi/Lime colour combination. Released 23 March, every pledge to the Earth Day 2021 Limited Edition has earned a pair of the new Wasabi/Lime shoes and was matched with an in-kind donation to one of Kane's sustainability initiatives.
The slip-on is constructed from bio-based moulded ‘BounceBack’ EVA foam derived from sustainably harvested Brazilian sugarcane byproduct. Sugarcane is not only a renewable resource but is considered carbon-negative as well—the plant synthesises carbon dioxide into energy via sugar, which is then extracted to form the ethylene used in the EVA foam.
The shoe has a firmer upper fused to a sole with 31mm of cushioning to support smaller muscle groups within the foot. The cushioning also softens the impact of each foot plant. To achieve a proper fit, the interior features an anatomical last shape that mimics the natural proportions and contours of the foot. This design helps promote proper fit by capturing the arch, heel and instep of the foot while providing room in the toe box for the forefoot to rest.
The biocontent of the foam used to produce the Revive shoe currently reaches over 56% sugarcane, a ratio that Kane intends to increase in the years to come, the company said.
Kane, a pending B-corp, operates from the perspective that companies have an obligation to be accountable for more than just their bottom line. The company has a long-term commitment to establishing and maintaining responsible business practices and partnerships. From investing in renewable, sugarcane-based EVA technology, to its partnership with 1% for the Planet, sustainability is ingrained in Kane’s ethos, said company founder John Gagliardi.
The Kickstarter campaign wraps with over $110,000 pledged, more than three times the initial goal, and over a thousand backers. The brand is finishing its Kickstarter on Earth Day to celebrate its goal of working towards a healthier planet. Direct-to-consumer sales will be launched this summer.