Sandal is made with an algae-based foam

Surfing Champion and entrepreneur Kelly Slater has launched his new sustainable and performance-based footwear brand KLLY. Discovering a niche opportunity in the footwear industry, Slater developed a sandal that’s made from recycled material using BLOOM technology, which is derived from algae. This provides a high level of cushioning, durability, responsiveness and water resistance. 

The high-performance flexible foam supplied by BLOOM, an Algix brand based in Meridian, Miss., is made from algae biomass harvested from freshwater sources throughout the world. The product’s process helps improve the quality of waterways by removing excess algae that harms plants, animals, and people; it recirculates fresh water back into the habitat; it aids CO₂ capture and sequestration. 

This involves scraping pond scum, solar drying, and pulverizing it before foaming the material to create a pad that helps re-balance the natural ecology. The sandal has been shown to stand up to the rigors of daily wear and outdoor activities, while helping to reduce the environmental impact of footwear. 

The packaging is also environmentally friendly, made with post-consumer backing, soy-based inks and a biodegradable wrapping.