# Corn-Cushioned Running Shoes Saucony Has Launched Sustainable Shoes Using Renewable Materials By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2023-09-24 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/corncushioned-running-shoes References: [yarnsandfibers](https://www.yarnsandfibers.com/news/textile-news/saucony-launches-triumph-rfg-as-a-step-towards-sustainability/) & [saucony](https://www.saucony.com/en/triumph-rfg/56652M.html?dwvar_56652M_color=S20761-30#cgid=triumph-rfg&start=1) There's a reason why [Saucony](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/goretex-collection) has not only survived but veritably thrived for over 120 years now, with the use of innovative materials and outside-the-box design playing a massive role, something which has been well and truly exemplified with its new sustainable shoes that make use of eco-friendly inclusions such as corn-based cushioning in the midsole and liberal use of natural rubber. The 'Triumph RFG' running shoe features a midsole that offers cushioning by way of a special foam that is crafted from 55 percent corn, which represents a huge reduction in the amount of plastic that is typically used in this type of shoe component. Meanwhile, the [natural rubber used in the outsole](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/craft-kype-pro) promises performance that can't be separated from conventional synthetic rubber. Even the dyes used in the cotton upper are plant-based and use renewable components. Available in men's and women's versions in various colorways, the 'Triumph RFG' sustainable shoes deftly balance performance, aesthetics and genuine eco-friendly credentials. Image Credit: Saucony ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 7.2/10 - Popularity: 98% | Activity: 99% | Freshness: 18% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Sustainable Footwear:** Saucony has launched sustainable shoes that use renewable materials, including corn-based cushioning and natural rubber. - **Eco-friendly Design:** Saucony's new sustainable shoes feature plant-based dyes and use renewable components in their construction. - **Reducing Plastic Use:** The 'Triumph RFG' running shoe reduces plastic usage by utilizing a 55 percent corn-based cushioning in the midsole. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Footwear:** The footwear industry can explore the potential of using renewable materials in their products, such as corn-based cushioning and natural rubber. - **Sustainability:** The sustainability industry can focus on developing eco-friendly alternatives for various consumer products, including plant-based dyes for textiles. - **Plastic Reduction:** Industries that heavily rely on plastic, such as the athletic footwear industry, can seek innovative solutions, like using renewable materials, to reduce plastic waste. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sustainable Running Shoe Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/supernatural-runner.md) - [Sustainable Single-Piece Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/on-cloudboom-strike-ls.md) - [Eco Cactus Leather Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mercer-rerun-sneaker.md) - [Compostable Sole Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/swave-sport.md) - [Ultra-Cushioned Performance Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cloudeclipse.md) - [Petroleum Product-Free Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-ripple-shoe.md) - [Textile-to-Textile Recycled Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/allbirds-remix.md) - [Bio-Circular Trail Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/norda-001a.md) - [Enhanced Water-Resistant Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/goretex-collection.md)