Biodegradable Bioplastic Shoes

Stella McCartney has launched her most sustainable sneaker to date—the S-Wave—crafted with innovative, plant-based materials and designed for circularity. Created in partnership with biotech startup Balena, the sneaker features soles made from BioCir Flex, a compostable and recyclable alternative to plastic that delivers the same comfort and durability.

In a bold move away from synthetic dyes, the sneakers are colored using cinnamon waste, while the white version incorporates hemp and agricultural byproducts from the pineapple industry in its upper. At end of life, consumers can return the sneakers to Stella McCartney, where the soles are separated and prioritized for recycling into new products—minimizing environmental impact and closing the loop on production.

With the S-Wave, priced at $550, the brand takes a major step toward its vision of fully circular fashion.

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