SOLE x United By Blue Jasper Wool Eco Chukka Review: ReCORK Footwear
Launched in March of 2019, the collaboration of Canadian footwear manufacturer SOLE and responsible apparel company United By Blue brings you a groundbreaking new style footwear that promises to change the way our choices effect the planet.
All with no expense spared in the same of style, comfort, or durability.
Conscious consumers have long called for a revision of the way we balance our needs with those of the greater planet, and the resulting SOLE x United By Blue Jasper Wool Eco Chukka lays its foundations on SOLE’s state-of-the-art ReCORK recycled cork midsole.
Plus United By Blue’s award-winning BisonShield insulation, which ingeniously utilizes hypoallergenic bison hair that would otherwise be lost to the landfills.
The result is natural temperature regulation and insulation from the elements.
The chukka’s SOLE-signature Bloom Algae Foam footbeds, featuring organic cork topsheets, require 35% less energy to produce than regular EVA, with a further 40% less impact on climate and ecosystems. Natural rice provides a controlled rubber outsole with a considerably diminished carbon footprint, while the footbed is treated with Polygiene anti-odor technology that eliminates the common occurrence of scrapping footwear once it turns smelly.
Both SOLE and United By Blue have long shared a mutual goal to provide sustainable alternatives where high-calibre footwear is concerned, with the former’s ReCORK initiative transforming natural wine corks into carbon-negative raw materials suitable for consumer products. (The company has overseen the recycling of over 100 million corks to date.)
Combined with United By Blue’s mission to use only sustainable materials such as organic hemp and cotton, recycled polyester, and the aforementioned bison fiber, the chukka is destined to lead the charge for high-performing, environmentally progressive footwear that brings integrity to its style.
SOLE Founder and CEO Mike Baker notes, “This is a shoe that people can feel really good about buying, and will love wearing. This is also just the beginning for us. We’re immensely proud of what we’ve produced but we believe we can always improve, and will keep working toward the goal of a more sustainable future for the footwear industry.”
Quick Highlights:
– Ultra eco-friendly materials and construction
– Australian merino wool
– BisonShield bison insulation retains heat when wet
– Lightweight, breathable and temperature-regulating upper
– ReCORK Recycled Cork Midsole
– Grippy natural rice rubber outsole
– Moisture-wicking and antimicrobial natural cork topsheet
– Incredibly comfortable and flexible soft-flex footbed
– Polygiene odor control technology
– Signature SOLE shape bloom algae foam
– 1 lb. ocean/waterway trash removed for every pair sold
SOLE x United By Blue Jasper Wool Eco Chukka Review
Born in 2010 out of a desire to create top grade active year with an environmental conscience, the team behind United by Blue pride themselves on promoting a brand that makes a difference.
This time they’ve joined forces with SOLE to create a sustainable, eco-friendly, high-quality shoe as comfortable to wear as it is stunning to behold.
The Jasper Wool Eco Chukka is made from durable Australian merino wool and BisonShield™ bison fibers, resulting in lightweight and breathable insulation. SOLE’s very own ReCORK recycled soles provided optimal flexibility and cushioning, with a grip to defy all surfaces and terrains I trekked through.
Additional Polygiene technology and Blood Algae foam worked their wonders to control odor and kept my feet plenty dry and fresh.
Perfect for the trail or daily wear, the Jasper Chukka ensures that every step you take is in the direction of a better planet.
The Jasper Chukka is proof that when we come together in the name of innovation and conservation, nothing is impossible. Gorgeously designed, high performing, and 100% recycled, the Jasper Chukka is just the first of what will surely be a new generation in conscious apparel
“We believe that products designed for enjoying the outdoors should also be kind to the outdoors,” writes United by Blue in their company mission. “We put a lot of thought into the materials that make up each piece and always opt for textiles that keep our oceans, air and soil a little cleaner.” After roaming around in my first pair of SOLE x United By Blue Jasper Wool Eco Chukkas, I’m beyond impressed and amazed eco-friendly could be so stylish, comfortable and high-performing!