As most joggers are by now aware, there's a burgeoning movement readers of runners eschewing super-cushioned shoes for "minimal" ones inspired by running barefoot. Boston-based New Balance is helping lead the movement with its popular NB Minimus line, which provided the design foundation for the pared-down newSKY collection. The difference? The newSKY line is informed by sustainable design considerations. Here, parts of the shoe that would otherwise use foam, leather, or plastic -- including the entire upper -- are replaced with Eco-fi, an innovative fabric material crafted from recycled plastic soda bottles. The result is a shoe that’s not only gentler on the planet but also looks and feels good.
Tags: