Cyclo introduces recycled eco-friendly footwear line

Textile recycling group Cyclo is launching a new range of footwear crafted exclusively with eco-friendly materials. Named Cyclonic, the debut sneaker style features Cyclo’s recycled cotton fibers and recycled polyester made from plastic waste, forming the shoes’ durable canvas upper.

Jute, known for its durability and biodegradability, is used for the midsole of the shoes. Currently, the shoe’s outsole is reclaimed rubber, but Cyclonic aims to develop a low-carbon alternative incorporating bio-based elements like algae in the future.

Cyclo Recycled Fibers president, Mustafain Munir, highlights the challenge in incorporating recycled fibers into products without compromising style or performance. The footwear’s robust fabric allows for greater adoption of recycled fibers. Initially launched in Japan for house slippers, the fabric can be adapted to various men’s and women’s shoe styles.

Cyclo’s eco-conscious process avoids synthetic dyes, with the color of the collected fabric waste determining the resulting yarn color. Different shades of waste can be blended together to match a brand’s desired hue. While Cyclo deals exclusively with cotton waste, they recommend blending it with other sustainable fibers like recycled polyester or Tencel to maintain integrity.