Trekker: The Ultimate Sustainable Hemp Sneaker – Exclusive Interview
Sustainable fashion is on the rise, and 8000Kicks has been pioneering hemp-based shoes and backpacks since 2019. Their latest innovation, Trekker, is a waterproof, breathable, and ultra-durable hemp sneaker designed for eco-conscious travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
By combining proprietary waterproof coatings, biodegradable hemp materials, and carbon-neutral production methods, Trekker pushes sustainable travel footwear to the next level. In this exclusive interview, we chat with 8000Kicks to explore what makes hemp the future of footwear, how Trekker is changing the game, and where the industry is headed next.
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Michael (GizmoCrowd): Your brand has been pioneering hemp-based shoes and backpacks since 2019. What inspired you to create Trekker, and how does it push sustainable travel footwear to the next level?
8000Kicks: We have to innovate to survive and thrive. So we’re always looking for the next big thing. Trekker was another push in that direction. If we stagnate, we die. Plus, it’s just more fun to challenge the big players in the industry.
Michael (GizmoCrowd): Unlike typical sneakers, Trekker features a proprietary waterproof coating, gusseted tongue, and a reinforced heel system. Can you explain how these elements work together to provide all-weather protection?
8000Kicks: Our hemp Trekkers are designed to repel water while remaining breathable. Here’s how:
- Proprietary Waterproof Coating – Protects the fabric from stains, liquids, and dust, making it incredibly easy to clean.
- Waterproof Membrane – Ensures your feet stay dry no matter the conditions.
- Gusseted Tongue (stitched design) – Prevents water from entering through the tongue area.
- Reinforced Heel System – Adds extra durability and long-lasting support.
By combining all these elements, Trekker is not just waterproof—it’s extra extra extra waterproof, while still being durable and breathable.
Michael (GizmoCrowd): Hemp is known for being anti-microbial, breathable, and naturally insulating. How does using hemp for insoles, fabric, and construction make these sneakers more comfortable and versatile for travelers?
8000Kicks: The biggest advantage of hemp is that it doesn’t absorb humidity, meaning it doesn’t create bacteria. This natural property makes our shoes odor-resistant and healthier for your feet.
Other benefits of hemp:
- Natural Insulation – Keeps feet warm in cold weather and cool in hot climates.
- Breathability – The porous hemp fibers allow air circulation, enhancing comfort and versatility.
All these properties make hemp an ideal material for shoemaking, especially for travelers and outdoor lovers.
Michael (GizmoCrowd): Your company aims for carbon neutrality, using recycled rubber soles and biodegradable hemp materials. How do these sustainable choices impact both the environment and long-term shoe durability?
8000Kicks: When we design a product, we don’t just focus on the hemp fabric—we look at every component.
- We always choose the most sustainable materials to complement the hemp, ensuring our shoes remain vegan, durable, and low-carbon.
Recycled rubber soles reduce waste while maintaining long-lasting durability. - Biodegradable hemp uppers mean that our shoes leave a minimal footprint when they reach the end of their life cycle.
- By focusing on both sustainability and performance, we ensure our shoes are built to last while protecting the planet.
Michael (GizmoCrowd): After the success of your hemp shoes, backpacks, and now Trekkers, what’s next for 8000Kicks? Do you see hemp becoming a mainstream material in the future of footwear?
8000Kicks: Absolutely. That’s the dream. We hope hemp will become as big as leather one day, but that’s a never-ending fight.
To get there, we need to:
- Keep innovating and developing new, cutting-edge hemp products.
- Educate consumers about the benefits of hemp in footwear and fashion.
- Challenge the status quo by proving that sustainability and performance can go hand-in-hand.
We’re ready for the fight, and we’re excited to push hemp into the mainstream.
Michael (GizmoCrowd): Thank you to the 8000Kicks team for sharing their journey! It’s inspiring to see a company pushing boundaries in sustainability while creating high-performance footwear. Wishing you continued success in making hemp the future of footwear!
Waterproof HEMP sneakers for travelling – A Kickstarter campaign by 8000kicks
In an industry dominated by synthetic materials and fast fashion, 8000Kicks is proving that sustainability and performance can coexist. With the Trekker hemp sneaker, they’ve created a waterproof, breathable, and ultra-durable travel shoe that’s as good for the planet as it is for your feet.
By focusing on innovation, carbon neutrality, and long-lasting materials, 8000Kicks is leading the charge to make hemp a staple in the future of footwear. If you’re looking for the ultimate eco-friendly travel sneaker, Trekker is the answer!
About 8000Kicks
8000Kicks is a team of entrepreneurs trying to disrupt this very dirty industry with 100% vegan, ecological solutions, made with cool materials and that everyone can afford. We also love cannabis and we think it is one of those super materials that can change the world.