Using materials that reduce or reverse our environmental impact.

Materials

Climate change and environmental issues are complex, with many contributing factors, including the fashion industry's use of toxic, non-biodegradable, or disposable materials. This practice not only harms the environment but also exacerbates global crises.

However, to make responsible choices, we evaluate materials based on various factors, including: durability, land impact, human and animal welfare, traceability, safety, carbon footprint, ease of care, post-use lifecycle, and biodegradability.

That said, we recognize the potentially questionable nature of leather as a byproduct of the meat industry. After careful consideration we have determined that it provides the best combination of all the above aspects.

Durability is an integral part of our brand, and we have yet to find an alternative material that matches or surpasses leather's longevity, or meets our criteria, and that can be refurbished and repaired for multiple lifetimes of use.

However, not all leather is created equal, and after an extensive search and testing, we are committed to using leather from an Italian tannery that has been awarded a Gold rating by the Leather Working Group (LWG).

LWG Gold Rated leather. 

Beckett Simonon is honored to be sourcing full-grain leather from Gruppo Mastrotto, a Gold Rated tannery which was established in Arzignano, Italy in 1958. This rating, awarded by the Leather Working Group (LWG), is the highest level possible.

LWG is an international body made up of stakeholders from all segments of the leather industry that assesses the environmental compliance and performance capabilities of leather manufacturers, and promotes sustainable and appropriate environmental business practices within the leather industry.

Being the highest level of recognition awarded, a Gold rating signifies the leather manufacturer meets the most stringent criteria and demonstrates a strong commitment to mitigating its environmental impact.

The leather we use is buttery soft, highly durable and won’t peel or flake. With proper care you can be sure it won’t become warped or damaged, and will develop an attractive patina over time. If needed, the leather can also be retouched or repaired by a skilled cobbler.

We believe in harnessing the power of nature to create better products. That's why we incorporate natural components and processes in our production, including natural waxes, water-based solvents and dyes, and vegetable tanning for our midsoles, outsoles, and stacked heels.

We also use ECOSTICK® 9015ST glue on our accessories. This is a latex glue that is modified to be 50% water based. A material that is also compliant with REACH standards, that address the use of risky chemical substances. Additionally, it does not contain any volatile organic compounds, which minimizes pollution in the workplace and the atmosphere.

Non-toxic rubber soles

The rubber for our shoes and sneakers is also made from natural rubber, with a mix of other materials: synthetic rubbers (which improve toughness) and white carbon black (which increases the lifespan of rubber). For our sneakers’ soles, we also mix in 20% recycled rubber.

All of our soles are produced following REACH specifications, which address the production and use of chemical substances, and aim “to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals” (European Chemicals Agency).

Choosing resistant and certified zippers

Our zippers are sourced from the Japanese company YKK. They are made with higher corrosion resistance, in facilities with certified Environmental Management systems (ISO 14001), tested for harmful environmental substances by OETEX Standard 100.

Utilizing ecological and reusable packaging

More than half (69.78%) of our customers report that they store their shoes in the original shoeboxes. And 74.95% of them say they either recycle the mailer box, or use it for storage.

Our shoebox is constructed from various ecological components, which are:

  • Made out of sugarcane with zero bleaching chemicals
  • Certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®)
  • Produced with electricity matched with Green-e certified wind energy
  • Earthpact Certified or 100% recycled

We take steps to manage our impact

Being a leather footwear brand, we are extremely aware of the impact our business practices have not only on our workers and immediate environment, but the world at large. That is why we take great strains to mitigate any potential damages.

Creating a joyful, healthy and supportive workplace.

We realize that our team members are individuals before anything else, and we must honor their uniqueness. In order to do this Beckett Simonon has created an environment where mutual respect, enjoyment, support, collaboration, openness, growth and humility are fostered; one where everyone can flourish and do their best work.

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Increasing the lifespan of the products we put into the world.

Products which outlast trends and can be repaired rather than replaced are essential. That’s why our collection is rooted in classic designs with a contemporary flair. The materials we use have been carefully selected for their durability, and your Beckett Simonon products can be easily maintained and repaired if needed.

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Manufacturing under ethical and responsible working conditions.

The artisans who handcraft your goods are the backbone of our company, and it is a privilege to work with them. It's our duty to honor their craft and their dignity by providing safe and enjoyable working conditions, above-average wages and a comprehensive benefits package to each one of them.

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Reducing overproduction and encouraging thoughtful consumption.

Our Made-To-Order (MTO) business model ensures every item we make already has an owner and eliminates overproduction. During the production period you will receive email updates to involve you with our practices and introduce you to the artisans.

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Using materials that reduce or reverse our environmental impact.

Even though it's difficult to find materials with zero environmental impact, we make it a priority to use ethically-produced materials processed with minimal toxins, repurposed from waste, or made with natural fibers. In our efforts to identify the most environmentally sound materials possible, we are constantly researching and testing new options.

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