Nike launches hemp-made sneaker model

By João R. Negromonte

Investing in the creation of biodegradable products, Nike recently launched two lines (one for children and one for adults) made of hemp. The Blazer Mid '77 and Air Force 1 Low models are made from plant fibers and feature a sole made from recycled materials, making them a completely sustainable product.

Another brand that also has sneakers of this type is Adidas. The line called Happy 420 replaces cotton with hemp fibers in the shoe fabric.

But how to acquire these products? 

Well, currently Brazilian legislation does not allow the cultivation of hemp on national territory, however, the importation of inputs for the commercialization of products derived from the plant is already a reality. Brands like Greenco and Reserva produce t-shirts using cotton and hemp fibers, aiming to commercialize more sustainable pieces, as the fiber requires less water and fewer chemicals for its production compared to other crops, in addition to being more resistant and durable.

These products are easily found on the internet and in the official physical stores of the brands, and can be purchased by anyone without any restrictions. 

Although this issue is still progressing slowly in our country, the global market continues to develop more and more products that respect nature. However, we are far from an ideal scenario, as the vast majority of these products are still produced entirely with materials that degrade the environment, such as polyester or cotton.

Hemp, on the other hand, can be used for various purposes such as construction, textile industry, battery production, and, according to studies, it can also function as a soil restorer in areas degraded by mining, collecting most of the heavy metals present in this environment and storing them in the leaves, leaving the stem with very little or almost no such residue.