About
Phragmites Sole
Our sole is based off of a local invasive species called Phragmites.
The base of our shoe is created by harnessing the non-reproductive leaves and stems of Phragmites; an extremely invasive species that has overtaken Long Island ecosystems. By harvesting this invasive material and repurposing it into flip flops, we address two challenges at once; restoring wetland ecosystems, and replacing harmful consumer products with a regenerative one.
The phragmites is blended into a powder, and mixed with powdered shells and methyl cellulose as a biodegradable adhesive. Once pressed into the mold with our iconic fish design, the sole is left to dry. It is then coated in an alginate and glycerin mix that is cured with a 2% Calcium Chloride bath, and left to dry once again.
Algae String
Inspired by Alicia Valdés' algae lace course, our string is created from an alginate and glycerin mixture, soaked in a calcium chloride bath to solidify the bonds between both materials, yielding a durable and flexible string once dried.
Homemade Prototype
