Valentino steps into renewable sneaker market

In Milan, luxury brand Valentino has introduced two sneakers designs made from recycled and renewable materials. 

Featuring uppers and sides made of viscose and polyurethane produced using corn-based polyols, the sustainable sneaks are available in the brand’s Open and Rockstud Untitled styles. The sneakers also include recycled polyester laces and rubber soles. 

A lifecycle assessment indicated the sneakers have a lower environmental footprint than footwear produced using fossil-based materials. 

Combining luxury with sustainability will set you back, however. The Open sneaker retails for $690, while the Rockstud Untitled is priced at $850. The company is also using recycled cotton and paper from sustainably-managed forests in the packaging, and vowed last year to stop using fur.