In a game-changing move for a more eco-innovative future, adidas today unveiled the UltraBOOST Uncaged Parley running shoe; the first mass-produced footwear created using Parley Ocean Plastic. The revolutionary footwear will launch mid-November, with 7,000 pairs available.
UltraBOOST Uncaged Parley features a Primeknit upper made from a mix of Ocean PlasticTM, created from plastic waste retrieved by Parley coastal interception and clean-up operations in the Maldives (95%), and recycled polyester (5%); with each pair reusing eleven plastic bottles. The shoes laces, heel cap base material, heel webbing, heel lining and the sock-liner cover are also made with recycled materials. Its design is inspired by ocean waves, to reflect the shoe’s unique story and adidas and Parley’s commitment to end the cycle of pollution in the oceans.
UltraBOOST Uncaged Parley is created using new technologies specifically engineered to up-cycle marine plastic debris into technical yarn fibres. The specially-developed Primeknit upper is combined with UltraBOOST’s signature elements to deliver an innovative running shoe that requires no compromise on performance.
A Continental™ natural rubber Stretchweb outsole for all-weather traction works with the innovative full-length BOOST™ midsole for unrivalled energy return. The Torsion® system bar, also from a renewable source, supports the foot’s natural flex with every step.
Eric Liedtke, adidas Group Executive Board member responsible for Global Brands, said:
“This represents another step on the journey of adidas and Parley for the Oceans. But we won’t stop there. We’re now committed to scaling those initiatives. We will make one million pairs of shoes using Parley Ocean Plastic in 2017 – and our ultimate ambition is to eliminate virgin plastic from our supply chain.”
adidas’ 2017 target will mean that at least eleven million bottles retrieved from coastal areas by the Parley Global Clean-up Network and Remote Island Interception operations will be recycled and repurposed into elite performance sportswear. This plan forms part of a larger commitment by the brand to increase the use of more sustainable materials in its products and to make eco-innovation the new industry standard through implementation of the Parley A.I.R. Strategy (avoid, intercept, redesign), which aims to end the cycle of marine plastic pollution long-term.
“Nobody can save the oceans alone. Each of us can play a role in the solution. It’s in the hands of the creative industries to reinvent faulty materials, products, and business models. The consumer can boost the demand for change. But it’s up to eco innovation leaders, like adidas, to make change a reality. With this shoe we demonstrate what’s possible. It’s even more than a shoe. It’s a flag, an invitation to join our movement. ” Cyrill Gutsch, Founder, Parley for the Oceans.
Earlier in the year, adidas celebrated World Oceans Day by releasing the first-ever edition running shoe in partnership with Parley for the Oceans. With a limited run of only 50 pairs available worldwide, Instagram users were given the chance to win a piece of sportswear history by raising awareness of the cause and uploading a video to show how they implement Parley A.I.R. and pledge to avoid single-use plastic.