# Recyclable Barefoot Trainers Crosskix Put a Strong Focus on Function, Fitness and Comfort By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2013-04-23 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/crosskix References: [kickstarter](http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/crosskix/crosskix-ii-the-relaunch) & [crosskix](http://crosskix.com) There are many running purists out there who believe training barefoot is the best, but it isn't very realistic for many people in urban areas around the world, which is where Crosskix come in to help make the experience a little bit more organic. Crosskix work by eliminating traditional insoles and encouraging the runner to go barefoot during jogs or workouts. Made from a unique composite foam that's completely biodegradable, Crosskix pick up where [Crocs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/running-vest-clog) left off. Instead of being flimsy, unsupportive and unfashionable, Crosskix put the focus back on function and fitness. Looking like a trainer, but featuring such clever design aspects as an embedded drainage system for water/moisture, a supportive outer sole and a snug [Velcro](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hoka-mafate-three2) closure, Crosskix are starting a new trend in athletic footwear by getting back to basics in [uber](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/uber-eats-marketplace) futuristic style. Check out the [Crosskix homepage](http://crosskix.com) for more information. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.3/10 - Popularity: 89% | Activity: 91% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Barefoot Training:** Opportunity for developing innovative athletic footwear that promotes the benefits of training barefoot while still providing support and comfort. - **Biodegradable Materials:** Potential for creating sustainable products by utilizing biodegradable materials for athletic footwear, reducing environmental impact. - **Functional Design:** Demand for athleisure footwear with clever design aspects that prioritize functionality, such as embedded drainage systems and supportive outer soles. ### Where This Applies - **Athletic Footwear:** Opportunity for athletic footwear companies to develop barefoot training shoes that combine function, fitness, and fashion. - **Environmental Sustainability:** Growing market for environmentally-friendly products utilizing biodegradable materials in various industries, including athletic footwear. - **Athleisure Fashion:** Potential for fashion brands to incorporate functional design elements in their athletic footwear offerings, catering to the athleisure trend. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sustainable Running Shoe Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/supernatural-runner.md) - [Tire-Inspired Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/craft-kype-pro.md) - [Eco-Conscious Hybrid Sneaker Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hoka-hopara-2.md) - [Sustainable Open-Style Sneaker Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/keen-uneek-360.md) - [Workout Recovery Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vktry-recovery-clog.md) - [Flexible Barefoot Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flexible-barefoot-footwear.md) - [Recyclable Material Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/salomon-xt-pure-advanced.md) - [Performance-Focused Training Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/reebok-nano-x5.md) - [Chunky Trainer Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/breeze-sneaker.md)