Day 213 – I’m not a big fan of flip flops. I prefer my slip on sandals with socks. However, there are plenty of people that love flip flops. So, I thought, before summer ended, I would give a few sustainable options. These are definitely not your dollar store brands. They are high quality, so you can expect to spend more than a few bucks. Prices range from around $20-$50.
Indosole – These are recycled tire flip flops. The outsole is made from tire tread, and the straps are made out of a material called “ENVRO” fiber which uses little water in the process and gives off a leather-like feel. These flip flops do not use any animal by-products, they are cruelty free and does not contain any types of plastic and is also 100% waterproof. Indosole is a B-Corporation.
Original Cork Shop – Their flip flops are 100% cork, from the footbed to the straps, to the flexible and grippy rubber cork sole. Original Cork Shop keeps things local, Fair Trade, and cruelty free. Everything is 100% sourced and made at their base in Portugal, where the majority of the world’s cork trees are located.
Okabashi – Okabashi flip flops are a combination of 25% recycled materials and bio-based soy material that are free from any BPAs, latex, and phthalates. They’re not biodegradable but are fully recyclable via Okabashi’s own US-based recycling program. They are made in Buford, Georgia.
Waves – Waves uses 100% premium-grade natural rubber for their flip flops, making for a cushioned, grippy, and durable shoe. This natural rubber is sourced in Sri Lanka, where it doesn’t need to travel far for manufacturing, because they’re made there, as well. Waves flip flops are handcrafted under a “strict socially responsible manufacturing process” and in exchange for fair wages.
Fipper USA – All Fipper sandals are made from 100% natural Thai rubber, are biodegradable, anti-bacterial, BPA Free and vegan friendly.
Whatever flip flop brand you choose, be sure the product is earth friendly. There are so many options out there. Going back to a non-recycled plastic pair just doesn’t make any sense.
Tomorrow, you can become a citizen scientist.
365 Ways to Save the Planet 