Over the last decade, we’ve witnessed the rise of vegan lifestyles as a vessel for change, and an efficient route to tackle climate change and address our carbon footprint — from consumers changing their diets to labels testing plant-based solutions. However, for ethical shoemaker Flamingo’s Life, veganism is something that has been deeply ingrained in their core values since 2015.

For those unfamiliar with the brand, Flamingo’s Life is a small Spanish label offering vegan sneakers, ethically-sourced and made in Elche, using factories managed by local families and with a heritage of over 40 years of shoemaking tradition. Each of their sneaker collections has a social project associated with them, such as collaboration with the NGA Agua ONG or the NGO Eden Reforestation Projects.

Following their previous releases, “Retro 90s,” “Old 80s” and “Classic 70s,” Flamingo’s Life now presents the new “Leonardo 02” sneakers, a premium streetwear staple redesigned with plant-based materials such as corn, bamboo and organic cotton. The pair arrives in “Pearl,” “Anthracite,” “Cocoa,” “Brick,” “Forest” and “Navy” colorways and include an exclusive pin and a patch with the design of the sneaker.

According to the label, the “Leonardo 02” perfectly embodies their essence, from sustainability and craftsmanship to culture and tradition. In particular, the shoe was born as an opportunity to pay homage to hip-hop, “a culture that touched the youth of the brand’s creators deeply.” This influence can clearly be seen as the sneaker showcases a retro silhouette and motif tongues.

Material-wise, the upper is constructed from 73% corn waste and 27% recycled polyester, while the inner lining comes from 70% bamboo. The external pieces are combined with Nylon Seaqueal, made from plastic litter collected from the ocean, and the laces feature BCI organic cotton.

“Created in an ethical way, with extreme attention to detail through artisanal processes in which only expert hands are involved,” all shoes are made in Portugal and are packaged in a 100% recycled cardboard box. According to data collected by BCOME, the “Leonardo 02” plant-based sneakers use 58% less water and 41% fewer fossil resources. They also have 40% fewer C02 emissions and 22% fewer P04 emissions.

Priced at $250 USD, the new “Leonardo 02” vegan sneakers are available to purchase from Flamingo’s Life online store. You can also read more about their sustainable initiatives and projects by following this link.