Tennies and the footwear revolution

July 31st, 2023

The world calls them “sneakers,” but Minnesotans (at least older folks) call them “tennies.” This is the shortened version of tennis shoes—so called because of their original purpose.  Today, it hardly matters as the brilliant idea for a comfortable, functional, durable—and even washable—shoe has so taken off as to leave Keds brand tennies in the […]

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A new world in sustainable footwear

July 17th, 2023

When Nike launched its Flyknit trainer in 2012, it kickstarted a new era in sustainable footwear. The one-piece uppers, knit on a flat machine, created 60 percent less waste than traditional construction. The transition to recycled polyester (rPET) yarns in 2016 added to the brand’s sustainability cred. Adidas followed quickly with their Primeknit styles and […]

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