What is Wayz?
Wayz is a Portuguese footwear brand hailing from the vibrant city of Porto. Inspired by people and their unique journeys, Wayz aims to craft authentic, timeless sneaker designs that truly stand out. The brand is all about delivering exceptional value, sourcing and crafting locally with the best partners. Ethical practices and transparency are at the core of their process, making sure every pair is built to last and designed to be repairable. In short, these sneakers are made to be by your side every step of the way. Walk Your Way!
Main Benefits of Wayz Sneakers
Wayz offers more than just shoes. Here’s what makes them special:
- Founded in 2019 in Porto, Portugal, by Pedro Maçana and Daniel Gonçalves
- 100% designed and crafted locally in Portugal
- Launched through a successful crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo
- First pairs delivered by the end of 2019, with an online store launch
- Opened the first physical store just three months later in Bonfim, Porto
- Focus on authenticity, responsibility, and transparency
- Sneakers built to last and made repairable, promoting sustainability
The Origin Story
Wayz was born from a shared passion for sneakers and a dream to create a truly Portuguese sneaker brand. Pedro Maçana and Daniel Gonçalves joined forces in 2019, driven by the idea of making footwear that’s not just stylish but also meaningful. The journey kicked off with a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo, which brought together sneaker lovers from all over the world. By the end of that year, the first pairs were ready to hit the streets, and the online store was up and running.
Local Craftsmanship and Ethical Practices
One of the standout features of Wayz is its commitment to local production. Every sneaker is designed and crafted in Portugal, working closely with trusted partners who share the same values. Ethical practices and transparency aren’t just buzzwords here—they’re the foundation of how Wayz operates. This means customers get shoes that are not only high quality but also made with respect for people and the planet.
Core Values Driving the Brand
Wayz stands firmly on three core values: Authenticity, Responsibility, and Transparency. These aren’t just words on a page—they guide every decision, from design to delivery. The brand believes in inspiring people to live more authentic, zestful lives, encouraging everyone to find their own way. It’s about more than just footwear; it’s a lifestyle and a mindset.
Wayz’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Supporting local artisans and ethical labor practices
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Creating durable, repairable sneakers to reduce waste
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Emphasizing local sourcing to minimize carbon footprint
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaborating with local partners who share sustainable values
Looking Ahead with Wayz
Wayz isn’t just about making sneakers; it’s about making a difference. The brand envisions a future where businesses take real responsibility for their social and environmental impact. By choosing Wayz, customers join a movement toward conscious consumption and meaningful change. It’s a journey toward a more authentic, responsible, and transparent way of living—one step at a time.
