dopekicks are eco-friendly, waterproof sneakers made from hemp

dopekicks has launched a vegan sneaker design that uses a specially processed hemp to make them completely waterproof. further proving its environmentally-friendly credentials, the shoes also feature recycled rubber soles, cork insoles, and have been manufactured using ethical labour in a factory in portugal.

the harvesting of the hemp involves separating hemp fibers from the bark, before allowing them to rett in the field for 4-6 weeks. the separated bast fibers are then carded into strands, and they are cleaned to remove impurities. the raw fibers are then processed using a steam explosion technique which renders them into a weavable fiber. the hemp is then ready to be spun into yarn and woven into textile.

besides being super strong, the production of hemp is considerably more environmentally friendly than other fibers. it consumes 3 times less water than cotton, and it has a minimal impact on the soil.

to make the hemp waterproof, the team at dopekicks added a special coating layer during the manufacturing process, making easy to clean whilst protecting them from stains, liquids and dust particles.

‘we wanted to make something for the active person, the challenger, the explorer, something that could provide the best experience under any conditions, and that’s why we built it waterproof,’ the team explains. ‘to guarantee that no water would come in we also added a special waterproof membrane, providing a total 2 layers of protection and keeping your feet dry no matter what.‘

‘when designing our soles we had to think of a wide range of applications,’ adds dopekicks. ‘we balanced a rugged design for the heavy outdoor user, that would be light enough for the casual user. by strategically carving the outsoles we got a maximum grip level with reduced overall weight.‘

for the sneaker soles, dopekicks partnered with portuguese outsole manufacturers to create upcycled soles from old shoes. the result is a custom molded interior which is flexible and durable, whilst saving the environment at the same time.

the eco-friendly design continues on the inside of the shoe where insoles made from cork creates a non deforming, naturally cushioned surface. at the same time it is temperature regulating, anti-fungal and anti-microbial, promoting healthy feet all year round.

project info:

name: dopekicks waterproof cannabis sneakers

kickstarter campaign link: here