The Journey from Idea to the First “Green” Shoes

The LOOP IN team may just be ordinary high school students, but we share a deep passion for issues surrounding the environment and nature. Deep down, each of us carries a quiet concern: our surroundings are changing, and what can the younger generation do to make even a small difference?

From after-school conversations, the idea of creating a pair of “green” shoes was born – a product that feels close to every student’s life, yet carries within it the hope that even the smallest steps can bring about big changes for the future.

The first step was sketching. On blank sheets of paper, we drew all kinds of designs – from youthful sneakers to simple slip-ons. But the most important thing wasn’t the style itself, it was the spirit behind it: how could every line and curve reflect warmth and friendliness? The early sketches looked clumsy, yet each stroke carried the team’s passion and dedication.

Once the idea became clearer, we began the journey of material hunting. Recycled canvas was chosen for its flexibility and breathability, making it the ideal fabric for shoes that are both durable and personal. For the soles, nothing felt more fitting than natural rubber – soft underfoot yet biodegradable. We also experimented with plant-based leather made from pineapple fibers for decorative details, offering elegance without harming any animals. And to finish the look, we chose water-based paints: safe, versatile, and friendly to both the makers and the wearers.

But theory always differs from reality. In the early days, the paint wouldn’t stick evenly, natural rubber bent slightly under heat, and recycled canvas sometimes refused to hold its form. We had to try again and again, experimenting with every lining and surface treatment. There were moments we almost gave up – but whenever a single detail worked and the team’s eyes lit up with excitement, new energy rushed back in.

The day our very first “green” shoes were finished was indescribable. It wasn’t just something to wear; it felt like a creation nurtured by faith and persistence. The shoes weren’t perfect – some stitches weren’t as sharp as we hoped, a few colors still looked uneven. Yet they carried a story: the story of a small journey fueled by the desire to make a difference.

We believe this first pair of “green” shoes is only the beginning. From an idea, it became reality. And from this reality, we want to invite you to walk with us – so that every step is not just part of life, but also a footprint of hope for the planet.