Blog
Why we use natural rubber and cork in our soles
Wet weather is the real test for any sneaker. Our team in Muizenberg walks the beachfront in all conditions before a style goes on sale. Hemp dries faster than cotton, and natural rubber keeps its grip on slippery tiles and wet promenades.
Keep your pair away from direct heat, stuff them with newspaper and let them dry in the shade. A light coat of beeswax balm on the upper helps the water bead off. Our Shoe Care guide covers the full routine.
Drying tips
Cork soles are lighter than they look and they handle damp ground well. The natural oils in cork resist water, so a quick wipe is usually all they need. Avoid soaking them for long periods.
For hemp uppers, use a soft brush and a little mild soap. Rinse with a damp cloth, then air dry away from the sun. Finish with a thin layer of upper balm to keep the fibres supple through the wet months.
Drying tips
Recycled knit sneakers need less fuss than most people think. A soft brush removes surface dust, and a damp cloth lifts the rest. Skip the washing machine, as heat and tumbling can warp the sole and loosen the glue. Keep a spare pair of laces in your bag for the days when mud wins. With a little attention, your runners will stay fresh for years of Saturday walks around Kalk Bay.
Our makers work from a small workshop a few minutes from Surfers Corner. Each pair is cut, stitched and glued by hand, then checked for comfort before it leaves the bench. Offcuts of hemp and cork are saved and turned into keyrings, laces and shoe bags, so very little goes to waste. If you ever wonder who made your pair, just ask us.
25 Beach Road
Muizenberg,
Cape Town 7945
