What is SAOLA Shoes?
SAOLA Shoes is an eco-friendly brand with roots in Annecy, France, and San Diego, USA. Focused on sustainability, the company designs sneakers using as many recycled and organic materials as possible. Recycled plastic is a key ingredient in their shoes, alongside cork, algae, and organic cotton. The brand’s mission? To innovate and think forward—constantly searching for better solutions and even ways to recycle the recycled plastic used in their products. It’s all about creating super cool sustainable kicks that don’t just look good but also give back to the planet.
Main Benefits of SAOLA Shoes
Here’s what makes SAOLA stand out:
- Over 70% of materials are recycled or natural.
- Lightweight design—each pair weighs less than 14oz on average.
- Comfortable fit, designed for life on-the-go, like a warm hug for your feet.
- Eco-designed with recycled and bio-sourced materials, making them some of the most sustainable sneakers out there.
- Partnership with 1% for the Planet ensures every pair supports biodiversity conservation worldwide.
- 3% for 3 projects initiative lets customers choose which environmental cause their purchase supports—ocean, land, or wildlife preservation.
The Materials Behind the Magic
SAOLA’s shoes are crafted with a thoughtful blend of recycled plastic, cork, algae, and organic cotton. This mix isn’t just about sustainability—it’s about pushing the boundaries of eco-design. The brand is always on the lookout for new ways to recycle materials, even reusing the recycled plastic again. This commitment to innovation means the shoes are not only better for the planet but also super stylish and durable. It’s a fresh take on footwear that’s as conscious as it is cool.
Design Philosophy and Comfort
Comfort is king at SAOLA. The shoes are designed to cradle your feet, making them perfect for busy days and travel adventures alike. Lightweight and breathable, they feel like a warm hug from an old friend—soft, supportive, and reliable. The design approach is all about blending classic cool with modern sustainability, so you don’t have to sacrifice style for ethics. It’s footwear that fits seamlessly into an active, eco-conscious lifestyle.
Supporting Environmental Conservation
SAOLA isn’t just about making great shoes; it’s about making a difference. Through their 3% for 3 projects initiative, customers can choose to support one of three environmental projects focused on ocean, land, or wildlife preservation. This means every purchase directly contributes to impactful conservation efforts. Plus, their partnership with 1% for the Planet further amplifies their commitment to protecting biodiversity worldwide. It’s a brand that truly walks the talk when it comes to sustainability.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
- SDG 15: Life on Land
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Brand Story and Vision
Born from a desire to merge style with sustainability, SAOLA Shoes is more than just a footwear brand—it’s a movement. With bases in both France and the USA, the company embraces a global perspective on environmental responsibility. Their story is one of innovation, passion, and a deep respect for the planet. By choosing SAOLA, customers join a community dedicated to reducing footprints, protecting wildlife, and supporting sustainable manufacturing. It’s about living a big life with a small footprint—one step at a time.
