# Recycled Ocean Plastic Sneakers The 'VIA' Eco-Friendly Shoes are Breathable and Weatherproof By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2019-04-24 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ecofriendly-shoes References: [geeky-gadgets](https://www.geeky-gadgets.com/environmentally-friendly-shoes-23-04-2019/) & [kickstarter](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/557878495/via-the-worlds-first-weatherproof-and-eco-friendly) The 'VIA' eco-friendly shoes are a new fashion creation that aims to provide advanced durability for wearers that doesn't come at the expense of the planet. The sneakers are crafted from [recycled ocean plastic](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shore) and feature a knit design that will allow feet to breathe throughout the day. This knit design doesn't inhibit the shoe's ability to withstand the elements as the footwear features a weatherproof aesthetic that is ready for any season. The 'VIA' eco-friendly shoes are also focused on enhanced comfort with a [slip-resistant outsole](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/swave-sport) and shock-absorbing outsole that work together to provide all-day protection from discomfort. The top portion of the sneakers can be placed into high top mode for ankle protection, while low top mode will keep the wearer cool. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.7/10 - Popularity: 79% | Activity: 85% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Recycled Ocean Plastic:** Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Develop new sustainable materials and manufacturing processes using recycled ocean plastic. - **Eco-friendly Fashion:** Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Create innovative and fashionable eco-friendly products that prioritize sustainability without compromising style. - **Knit Design:** Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Combine comfort and durability with knit designs that allow for breathability and adaptability in footwear. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Fashion:** Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Transform the fashion industry by integrating sustainable and eco-friendly practices throughout the supply chain. - **Plastics:** Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Explore new ways of recycling and repurposing ocean plastic to reduce plastic waste and create value-added products. - **Footwear:** Opportunity for disruptive innovation: Revolutionize the footwear industry by developing sustainable and comfortable shoes through innovative design and material choices. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sustainable Open-Style Sneaker Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/keen-uneek-360.md) - [Recycled Rope-Made Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shore.md) - [Eco-Conscious Hybrid Sneaker Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hoka-hopara-2.md) - [Breathable Eco-Friendly Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/contour-zero.md) - [Compostable Sole Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/swave-sport.md) - [Sustainable 3D-Printed Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/4dfwd-1.md) - [Sustainable Single-Piece Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/on-cloudboom-strike-ls.md) - [Algae-Made Slippers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vegan-slippers.md) - [Petroleum Product-Free Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-ripple-shoe.md)