8000kicks
8000Kicks is an innovative footwear brand founded in 2019 by Bernardo Carreira and his grandmother Maria Otilia. The brand is headquartered in Lisbon, Portugal, and has gained popularity for creating the world’s first waterproof hemp shoes. 8000Kicks aims to provide sustainable and high-performance footwear that is both stylish and environmentally friendly.
Industries
Footwear and Sustainability
Founded
2019
Headquarters
Lisbon, Portugal
Strategic Priorities
8000Kicks focuses on producing eco-friendly shoes using hemp, a sustainable and durable material. The brand aims to reduce the environmental impact of footwear manufacturing by using renewable resources and minimizing carbon emissions. Their products are designed to be comfortable, durable, and suitable for various activities, including hiking and everyday wear.
Recent Innovations and Collaborations
The brand is known for its hemp-based shoes that incorporate unique features such as water repellency and temperature regulation. They use hemp insoles and outsoles made from algae blooms, which help clean water and reduce CO2 levels. 8000Kicks has also introduced sustainable packaging made from recycled cardboard and biodegradable corn starch mailer bags.
Sustainability Efforts
8000Kicks is committed to sustainability, utilizing hemp for its low environmental impact. Hemp requires no pesticides, absorbs CO2, and uses significantly less water than traditional materials like cotton. The brand’s carbon-neutral initiative includes planting trees for every order to offset carbon emissions and using factories that rely heavily on renewable energy sources.
Community and Employee Engagement
The brand maintains transparency about its manufacturing processes, including fair wages and safe working conditions in its factories. They actively engage with their community through social media and customer service, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and ethical practices.
Pros and Cons of 8000Kicks
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ High-quality, sustainable materials | ✘ Higher price point due to premium materials |
| ✔ Durable and water-repellent designs | ✘ Limited physical retail presence |
| ✔ Strong commitment to sustainability | ✘ Some transparency issues regarding manufacturing details |
| ✔ Comfortable and versatile footwear | ✘ Shoes are not fully recyclable |
Final Thoughts
8000Kicks stands out in the sustainable footwear market with its innovative use of hemp and commitment to eco-friendly practices. The brand’s focus on quality, durability, and environmental impact makes it a strong choice for consumers looking for sustainable and stylish footwear. While the higher price points and some transparency issues may be drawbacks, 8000Kicks’ dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainability ensures it remains a leader in the eco-friendly footwear industry.