Since its inception in 2018, Barcelona-based sneaker brand SAYE has been continuously designing stylish and eco-friendly sneakers that are helping to offset the effects of deforestation. For each pair of sneakers sold, the brand plants two trees in partnership with WeForest, an NGO that strategically works with communities most affected by deforestation.
Recently, the sustainability-driven label introduced a new range of upcycled, vegan models under its new “Not Just Vegan” umbrella. Dubbed Modelo ’89 Vegan, the silhouette is directly inspired by SAYE’s Modelo ’89 and retains the same low top tennis-style construction. Available in three different iterations, the Modelo ’89 Vegan is the result of a year-long process of research and development.
The Modelo ’89 Vegan is constructed from recycled and recyclable fibres from recovered plastics. Recycled vegan napa (35% post-consumer fibres, 11% polyester and 54% polyurethane) is used to craft the sneaker’s upper, while the lining is made from recycled post-consumer PET.
Additionally, the removable insoles are constructed from recycled PU foam from automotive leftovers, the outsole is made from natural and synthetic rubber, the laces are certified organic cotton, and lastly, the reinforcements come from recycled thermoplastic and woodchips.
For a clean and fresh look, “Vegan White” boasts a tonal outfit with cream accents featured throughout the entirety of this colorway option. On the other hand, “Vegan Dark” is dressed in an almost all-black look. The only hit of colour arrives on the heel and tongue branding, which is embroidered in contrasting white.
For customers looking for something in the middle, “Vegan Caramel” spotlights a more contrasting look and features an off-white upper embellished with a caramel hue on the midsole.
Each purchase arrives in eco-friendly packaging made from 100% recycled box and paper manufactured in Portugal with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) certifications. Even the mailer bag is plastic-free and fully biodegradable.
The new “Not Just Vegan” collection is part of SAYE’s growing sustainability initiatives and acts as the label’s first step in becoming animal-free and having zero-waste in its supply chain. All sneakers and packaging are carefully produced in factories located in Portugal, a decision made to ensure that SAYE’s workers are paid fairly, treated ethically, and work in good conditions.
SAYE’s “Not Just Vegan” sneakers retail for €135 EUR (approximately $212 CAD) and are available online. The sneakers will start shipping during the first week of September.
All images in this article are courtesy of SAYE.
