At Freet, we are committed to continually researching and improving the materials and processes used in our barefoot shoes to reduce our environmental footprint while maintaining the durability and performance our customers rely on.

Every recent product page on our website includes a Sustainability tab, placed alongside the Product Details tab. This helps keep sustainability central to every design decision we make.

For an overview of what we are doing in this area, we invite you to watch a short video providing this overview of our sustainability efforts.

Our Sustainability Approach

Our goal is to create footwear that:

• lasts longer
• uses more recycled and responsible materials
• reduces harmful chemicals
• minimises waste
• supports responsible supply chains

Because the most sustainable product is often one that lasts for years rather than needing to be replaced quickly, durability remains a key part of our design philosophy.

Water Repellent Treatments (PFA/PFC-Free Waterproofing)

From April 2024, Freet has eliminated PFA/PFCs (Perfluorinated Compounds) from our water-repellent treatments.

PFCs are widely used in outdoor products but can persist in the environment for extremely long periods.

Instead, we use Rudolf DWR (Durable Water Repellent) technology, which delivers strong water resistance without using harmful fluorinated chemicals.

This allows us to maintain high performance in wet conditions while reducing long-term environmental impact.

Sustainable Packaging

All Freet shoes are shipped using recyclable packaging materials.

Our packaging includes:

• cardboard shoe boxes
• recycled plastic packaging materials
• recyclable components where possible

We continue working to reduce unnecessary packaging while ensuring products remain protected during shipping.

Upper Materials

We increasingly use recycled and innovative materials in the uppers of our barefoot shoes.

BottleYarn

BottleYarn is made from 60–80% recycled PET plastic bottles.

Benefits include:

• reduced plastic waste
• breathable textile construction
• easy cleaning and durability

CoffeeYarn

CoffeeYarn uses recycled coffee grounds combined with polyester fibres.

Key characteristics:

• breathable fabric
• natural odour control
• durable performance materials

The material may require slightly more cleaning but offers excellent long-term durability.

Microfibre (Recycled Content)

Our microfibre materials currently contain 30–40% recycled content, and we continue to improve the technology.

Updated versions with higher recycled content are planned for introduction in 2026.

Leather (Responsibly Sourced)

Some Freet models use natural leather.

Our leather suppliers are audited by the Leather Working Group (LWG) and have achieved Gold certification, which recognises responsible environmental and ethical practices in leather processing.

Leather is also naturally durable, helping extend product lifespan.

Recycled Laces

Our laces now contain 60–70% recycled PET, helping reduce the use of new plastic materials while maintaining durability.

Linings and Insoles

We are increasing the use of recycled materials in shoe linings and foam insoles.

Our latest insoles include recycled components while still providing the comfort and performance required for everyday use.

Midsoles

We continue working to increase the recycled content within our midsole systems, including:

• SoftFlex
• MidFlex
• FirmFlex

These components are key to the flexibility and protection of our barefoot shoes, and improving their sustainability is an ongoing focus.

Outsoles

Our outsoles use a blend of natural latex rubber (approximately 60%) and synthetic materials, essential for optimising performance.

This balance allows us to maintain:

• strong grip
• durability on trails and hard surfaces
• long-lasting wear

Durable outsoles help extend the life of each pair of shoes.

Supply Chain Verification

We work to independently verify our supply chains and suppliers wherever possible.

Rather than relying only on assurances, we prioritise direct checks and audits to ensure materials and processes meet our standards.

Reducing Waste Through Shoe Aid

Freet works with Shoe Aid, a charity that redistributes footwear to people experiencing homelessness and hardship.

Any lower-grade stock, samples, or non-retail returns that cannot be sold are redirected to support those in need.

Our aim is simple: never discard usable shoes.

This approach helps reduce waste while supporting communities that need it most.

Continuous Improvement

Sustainability is not a single achievement but an ongoing process.

As materials technology improves and new solutions become available, we continue working to:

• increase recycled content
• reduce harmful chemicals
• minimise waste
• extend product lifespan

By combining durable design with responsible materials, we aim to make barefoot footwear that is better for both people and the environment.