What kind of world do we want to live in? What do we want to wear within that world? These questions prompted Finbarr Power to set up his own Irish sustainable footwear company called Sampla a few years ago.
“Growing up in Waterford, I was surrounded by design, and product design is something I’ve always had a passion for. In 2018 I considered developing a consciously created shoe. I wanted it to be unisex and crafted by artisans who were equally as passionate for the product,” says Power. “I couldn’t understand why well-established brands were not creating ethical walking shoes from sustainable materials, so I chose the name Sampla, which is the Irish word for example.”
Power’s shoes and trainers are truly unique and made from a prolific if rather unusual ingredient – apple skin. In fact, this bountiful fruit produces a very good leather alternative that is made from the sweet apples that are a byproduct of the juice industry. The Sampla soles are made from recycled EVA – a type of durable repurposed waste from the production of car seats in Europe. Then the laces are topped off with organic cotton.
“Sampla is a collaborative entity where creativity meets craftsmanship,” says Power. “Our shoes are the embodiment of a dialogue between designers, artisans and the customer. Every stitch, every cut, and every detail is a reflection of our dedication to making fashion that is both beautiful and responsible. We don’t just design shoes, we are designing a better future that speaks to our values and our visions. Together we’re not just imagining a better world, we’re crafting it one step at a time.”
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Sampla footwear has grown in popularity and is now available in 19 countries. Power says the company is “committed to challenging the fast fashion mentality by promoting long-lasting products that can be easily repaired, reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable future for the footwear industry”.
He adds: “Our aim to make sustainability both accessible and stylish for consumers around the world.”
Tuttys of Naas is another a renowned creator of handmade walking shoes and distinctive footwear designed with longevity and beauty in mind. Michael Tutty is the owner of this much-loved shoe brand.
“We are flying in the face of fast footwear as our younger generation are being conditioned into buying disposable goods,” he says in his workshop. “In contrast we emphasise longevity and making quality walking shoes that are designed to be repaired. Our made-to-measure shoes and boots are designed with traditional processes and durability in mind. We discuss the proposed style with our customers first of all and take down any details regarding the style of shoe, the type of leather, the heel height, sole type and finish.”
These high quality shoes and walking boots stand up to a lot of mileage and trekking. Tutty and his team use a high quality grade of leather that is more biodegradable as it has no plastic finishes or coatings. “The leather is sustainable as it is a byproduct of the beef industry which would go to waste otherwise. We can also provide vegan leather if desired.”
He has nine employees who create the designs in tandem with their clients. They also have a range of eye-catching two-tone brogues, along with a medical range of shoes for those with different foot fittings that can’t be found on the high street.
“My grandfather set up the shop 78 years ago, in 1946, and we have very loyal customers who have been coming here for many generations,” says Tutty. “We do our own apprenticeships and train up the youngsters.”
There are certain guidelines that can help us all track down sustainable walking shoes. Keep a look out for organic cotton uppers, recycled plastics and ethically sourced leathers, along with good working conditions and pay rates for employees. Natural rubber outsoles are biodegradable and made from renewable resources, unlike synthetic rubber, which is petroleum rubber. Also, check out certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Fair Trade signs or a guarantee of sustainable processes.
On the main shopping streets there are also many excellent walking shoes that will go the distance. The Tamaris vegan shoes look good enough to eat but fortunately they don’t have any animal products in them if you’re vegan or vegetarian. Timberland incorporate fabric made from recycled plastic bottles into premium hiking boots that are stylish and built to last a lifetime. Dr Martens, which are perennially popular and appear to have the timeless appeal of Levi’s jeans or Gap sweatshirts, maximise the longevity of their boots by making sure they are hard-wearing and repairable – because, after all, the most sustainable shoes (or any items) are the ones you already own.
So put your best foot forward. Do some sole-searching before you purchase your next pair of shoes and look for long-lasting value.