The Sustainable Shoe Made from Hemp: 8000Kicks Review
8000Kicks is an innovative sustainable shoe brand crafting high quality sneakers from hemp. These vegan shoes are strong, flexible, light weight, and splash proof.
Inspired by a fun night and the joke of a “smokeable shoe,” 8000Kicks founder, Bernardo, began researching hemp. After learning about the eco-friendly characteristics and durability of this material, Bernardo was inspired to create a sustainable shoe made out of hemp.
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Why hemp shoes?
Historically hemp has been a very popular material to make products with due to the durability. MIT reported that in 1938 hemp was on the verge of becoming the “billion dollar crop” due to the diverse 25,000 uses including artist canvas, building materials, textiles, and more.
Yep, all items that must be pretty durable! The strength of hemp makes this material especially great for shoes. 8000Kicks shoes are crafted to last due to the super strong hemp fibers 8000Kicks uses. These dope shoes are strong, flexible, light weight, and splash proof.
How is hemp turned into fiber & crafted into shoes?
After the hemp is harvested the fibers are separated from the bark and given 4-6 weeks to rett in the field. The separated fibers are carded into strands and cleaned.
Next the manufacturers use steam explosion to render raw hemp into a weavable fiber. After this process the hemp is ready to be spun into yarn and woven into a textile.
Why is hemp sustainable?
Hemp is an eco-friendly option because this plant can be grown with little water and no pesticides. Plus just about every part of the plant can be used! Forbes reports, the stalk’s outer bast fiber can make textiles, canvas and rope while its woody core is used for paper, construction and animal bedding.
The seeds are high in protein, fiber, omega-3 fats and other nutrients. Their oil can be used for paints, adhesives, cooking and plastics and the leaves can be eaten and used to make juice. The plants' many uses and ease of growth make this a wonderful choice for conscious consumers.
With each pair of 8000Kicks hemp shoes made
100g of harmful algae removed
72% less CO2 used compared to other sneakers in the shoe industry
70% less water used compared to other sneakers in the shoe industry
Are these hemp shoes ethically made?
Yes, Bernardo, the founder, has been able to visit both the factories in China and Portugal ensuring employees are paid livable salaries and receive benefits. I sincerely appreciate his dedication in building a strong relationship with the factories where 8000Kicks are made.
Even More Eco-Conscious Features
Along with the sustainable fibers of the shell of the shoe, the insole and outsole are also consciously crafted. The outsoles are made from recycled algal blooms. By using algal blooms this helps remove harmful algae from waterways and gives the shoe a lightweight feel. The insoles of 8000Kicks shoes are made hemp creating a comfortable feel.
8000Kicks Hemp Shoes Review
I was gifted the Black & White 8000Kicks' Explorer V2 for Women and I’m obsessed with them! I typically wear a 7.5 and while 8000 Kicks does not carry half sizes, I sized up as recommended. The shoes fit perfectly!
My 8000Kicks are incredibly comfortable and I appreciate how they are flexible enough to move with your feet as you walk. The sole of the shoe is cushy yet supportive. The Black & White has been great for me as this neutral color combination matches a wide range of outfits.
Are these shoes really splash proof?
My 8000 Kicks have been so great for fall in the PNW. I live in Seattle so the splashproof feature has been wonderful for me. I have worn them to walk the dog in the rain and my feet were dry when I got home!
8000Kicks Discount Code
I’ve sincerely enjoyed my 8000Kicks. I can tell they are crafted to last. These innovative shoes are definitely worth checking out. They are crafted with care and founded with a mission rooted in incredible knowledge of the hemp industry and sustainability.
Use the discount code HONEST to receive 10% off your purchase.
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