Local footwear brand SUAVS is kicking onto the scene with its first-ever shoe made entirely from recycled materials. The Recycled Knit Legacy Sneaker, a new high-top style, is the first of many eco-conscious releases to come, the company says.

Much like earlier SUAVS styles, the new sneaker features lightweight comfort, breathable construction, and a cool silhouette to deliver all-day comfort for travel, commutes, and other activities. While the newest style includes signature elements of the brand's product line, it also features major ethical upgrades — including 100 percent vegan materials (even down to the glue). The shoe is made using up to eight recycled water bottles, and sustainable production methods have been put in place to reduce material waste during the manufacturing process.

SUAVS CEO Monxi Garza says the new style is the result of the company's focus on sustainability, something that has long been in the works for the brand.

“At SUAVS, we don’t just want to create the most comfortable, versatile shoes,” Garza says. “They need to be sustainable as well. We’ve been working on sourcing sustainable materials for a few years now. As soon as we were able to create a durable, equally as soft, and comfortable knit that was also made from recycled materials, we made the switch.”

Additionally, the new sneaker is designed with considerable comfort improvements, and boasts a softer material than other classic SUAVS styles.

“Our Legacy high tops look like a boot, wear like a sneaker, and feel like a sock,” Garza says. “These updates allow for a more natural and comfortable fit, while also increasing durability in different terrains and weather conditions.”

Legacy’s release marks a new era for the footwear label. Beginning this year, all new launches and current SUAVS styles will be made using sustainable materials, further solidifying the company’s focus on producing a smaller carbon footprint. Unsold styles will be donated to nonprofit organizations like Soles4Souls and LifeWorks.

“It’s a matter of accountability as a consumer brand and being more conscious about the products we create for our customers and the environment,” Garza explains. Shoppers can expect even more sustainable and sleek SUAVS styles and colors in the months ahead, with the next launch slated for as early as February 2020.

The Recycled Knit Legacy Sneaker is $110 and is available in three colors in both men’s and women’s sizes.