This Company Aims to Restore An Ancient Shoe-Making Tradition
Mishal Omar — June 14, 2016 — Fashion
References: vivobarefoot & kickstarter
Vivobarefoot is a brand that aims to restore and revitalize an ancient shoe-making tradition and will offer only 1,500 of these shoes annually.
The sandals are made from eland skin which is an extremely thick and durable leather. Unfortunately, hunting restrictions caused this shoe-making tradition to slowly decrease until only tribal elders in the Ju/Hoan San community in Africa retained the knowledge on how to create the sandals. As a result, Vivobarefoot partnered with this community in order to learn the ancient practice as well as bring it to the rest of the world. The sandals will be made from ethically sourced eland, will promote the hunting and gathering lifestyle and will help to economically support the San in the South.
These shoes restore an ancient practice that was lost by the policies of colonialism while helping to support a community.
The sandals are made from eland skin which is an extremely thick and durable leather. Unfortunately, hunting restrictions caused this shoe-making tradition to slowly decrease until only tribal elders in the Ju/Hoan San community in Africa retained the knowledge on how to create the sandals. As a result, Vivobarefoot partnered with this community in order to learn the ancient practice as well as bring it to the rest of the world. The sandals will be made from ethically sourced eland, will promote the hunting and gathering lifestyle and will help to economically support the San in the South.
These shoes restore an ancient practice that was lost by the policies of colonialism while helping to support a community.
Trend Themes
1. Revitalizing Tradition - Brands can tap into ancient practices and revive lost traditions to create unique and culturally significant products.
2. Ethical Sourcing - Consumers are increasingly demanding products made from ethically sourced materials, presenting opportunities for companies to support sustainable practices.
3. Cultural Collaboration - Partnerships with indigenous communities can not only preserve cultural heritage but also unlock innovative product opportunities rooted in traditional knowledge.
Industry Implications
1. Footwear - The footwear industry can explore the use of alternative materials and manufacturing techniques to revive ancient shoe-making traditions.
2. Fashion - The fashion industry can incorporate traditional craftsmanship and culturally significant designs to create unique and meaningful products.
3. Sustainable Living - The sustainable living industry can promote the use of ethically sourced materials and support indigenous communities, contributing to both cultural preservation and environmental responsibility.
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