# Eco-Friendly Retro Sneakers Rothy Gives Its Classic Athletic Sneakers a Sustainable Upgrade By Niko Pajkovic | Published 2021-08-13 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rothy References: [uncrate](https://uncrate.com/rothys-varsity-collection/) & [rothys](http://rothys.com) San-Francisco-based fashion brand [Rothy's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sustainable-nyc-flagship) has launched its all-new 'Varsity Collection' giving its retro sneakers a contemporary and eco-friendly update. The shoes still feature the iconic '80s look of the originals but are now handcrafted with close to zero waste production and made from unique [recycled materials](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/allbirds-remix). For example, the shoe's stylish knit upper is made from a thread-like material constructed out of used water bottles. The shoe's other features include a terry-lined tongue, a contoured footbed, and padded ankle collars – clearly, comfort was a high priority for the Rothy's team who have created an exceptionally well-cushioned runner. Of course, the gum outsoles also remain adding to these sneakers' retro aesthetic. Currently, the 'Varsity Collection' is offered in three basic colorways: Crimson Red,' 'Hudson Blue', and '[Hunter Green](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/every-other-thursday).' Image Credit: Rothy's ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.3/10 - Popularity: 41% | Activity: 19% | Freshness: 10% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% 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 ### What's Driving This Trend - **Eco-friendly Fashion:** Fashion brands are exploring sustainable materials and production methods to create environmentally friendly products. - **Circular Economy:** Companies are finding ways to reduce waste and extend product life through the use of recycled materials and closed-loop production systems. - **Retro Revival:** Vintage styles, such as 80s-inspired sneakers, are making a comeback and being updated with modern sustainability features. ### Who This Affects Most - **Fashion:** The fashion industry has an opportunity to embrace greater sustainability by incorporating recycled materials and reducing waste in production processes. - **Sportswear:** Athletic brands can create more eco-friendly options for consumers by using recycled and sustainable materials to make sneakers and other sportswear. - **Footwear:** Shoe manufacturers can innovate by implementing sustainable and circular production practices, such as using recycled materials and designing for longevity and repairability. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Textile-to-Textile Recycled Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/allbirds-remix.md) - [Inaugural Sustainable Sneaker Collections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sustainable-sneaker-collection.md) - [Recycled Rope-Made Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shore.md) - [Sustainable Single-Piece Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/on-cloudboom-strike-ls.md) - [Breathable Eco-Friendly Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/contour-zero.md) - [Sustainable Open-Style Sneaker Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/keen-uneek-360.md) - [Sustainable Color-Blocked Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/colville.md) - [Sustainable NYC Flagship Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sustainable-nyc-flagship.md) - [Recycled Material Casual Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/recovery-mode.md)