Rick Owens and VEJA join forces to unveil two Runner Style sneaker models in the form of the Runner Style 2 and Runner Style Mid for the season. This collaboration marks the third time that the duo are working together and the sneakers will join the Fall 2020 roster. Both of the silhouettes are constructed with sustainability in mind.
The Runner Style 2 is made with a V-knit material throughout its upper sourced from recycled polyester drawn from plastic bottles. The midsole is crafted from 8% banana oil and 46% sugar cane. This sits on top of a natural cork outsole made from 31% rice waste and 30% Amazonian rubber. The Runner Style Mid boasts the same upper construction complete with L-Foam cushioning and 54% bio-based midsole.
Sustainable Knit Running Shoes
Rick Owens and VEJA Unveil Two Eco-Friendly Runner Styles
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Knit Sneakers - Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Develop eco-friendly sneaker materials and construction methods.
2. Recycled Polyester - Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Create new products and solutions using recycled polyester sourced from plastic bottles.
3. Bio-based Midsoles - Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Explore the use of bio-based materials for midsoles in footwear industry.
Industry Implications
1. Footwear - Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Incorporate sustainable materials and manufacturing processes into footwear production.
2. Textile and Fabric - Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Develop and commercialize new textile technologies using recycled polyester.
3. Sustainable Fashion - Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Drive the adoption of sustainable practices and materials in the fashion industry.