What makes slippers (or anything else for that matter) ethical?
Is it the fact that the people involved in their manufacturing are paid fair wages and have good working conditions?
Is it the fact that they’re made locally, thus the emissions produced by shipping them are reduced?
Is it the materials they are made of? Recycled materials help divert waste from landfills or prevent environmental pollution, but natural materials will biodegrade quicker. Do they have to be made from vegan materials, which cuts down on the emissions produced by industrial farming and prevents animal cruelty?
The answer is deeply personal to each of us, and it relates to what we value most. In an ideal world, all of these conditions would be met, but alas there will always be a need for compromise.
We’ve picked the brands that are doing as much as they can to produce slippers ethically, and we’ve broken down everything you need to know about each of them so that you can feel more empowered in making your decision.
Egos
Who are Egos?
Egos Copenhagen are a Danish brand that produces colourful felt slippers. Following a classic Danish design that values simplicity and functionality, they are made by some of the world’s best felt workers in Nepal, using raw sheep’s wool from New Zealand.
The company is a World Fair Trade Organisation, employing and providing a fair wage to Nepalese artisans, as well as providing financial support for local orphanages.
How are Egos slippers made?
The signature bright and colourful designs are achieved using raw wool from New Zealand sheep and eco-friendly dyes. After the dyeing process, the wool is carded and shaped around a last to create the iconic clog shape. The artisans use soapy water to massage the wool so that the fibres cling to each other, and then the slippers are dried in the sun. Another layer of felt is used to add more comfort and warmth to the slipper before the suede sole is hand sewn on.
What are the benefits of Egos slippers?
Egos’ felted wool slippers offer a luxurious feeling and unparalleled comfort year-round. Wool is a natural material with the ability to regulate the body temperature and insulate while remaining breathable. In the winter they help keep your feet toasty warm, and cool and dry in the summer due to their moisture-wicking properties. Wool also contains lanolin, which creates an odour and stain-resistant barrier, for long-lasting freshness throughout the year.
Shop Egos slippers below!
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Mercredy
Who are Mercredy?
Mercredy is a brand crafted in Spain, with sustainability at the heart of its mission. Produced in local Spanish factories which are all committed to reducing the environmental impact of their production, they use traditional techniques to handcraft beautiful felted slippers and removing tons of plastic waste from the ocean.
Mercredy has a Global Recycled Standard certification. The GRS is an international product standard that looks to verify the recycled content of the products and to verify responsible social, environmental and chemical practices of production.
How are Mercredy slippers made?
Mercredy slippers are made from recycled plastic bottles recovered from the ocean. The bottles are ground into small fibres, cleaned and spun into yarn which is then woven into the felted uppers. Each pair of Mecredy slippers is made from at least 2 recycled bottles. The outsole is made from 100% recycled rubber.
What are the benefits of Mercredy slippers?
Mecredy slippers are made from lightweight, durable fabric. They are super comfortable and breathable. They have a removable, soft padded insole that cushions your feet for extra comfort. The non-slip outsole is also made from 100% recycled materials. These heavy-duty slippers are comfortable, sustainable and suitable for vegans, and of course, you can wear them knowing your down time has a positive impact on the environment.
Shop Mercredy slippers below!
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