I’m totally not a flip-flop wearer, except for maybe maybe at the beach, but Feelgoodz are flip-flops that even I can get behind. I discovered this New Orleans-based company recently via another new local fair-trade boutique, IN Exchange.
Feelgoodz are an eco-friendly, fair-trade flip-flop — they’re the only company in the U.S. currently offering up 100% natural rubber flip-flops, which are 100% biodegradable and recyclable.
Kyle Berner, the owner and founder, is a fellow alumni of my alma mater, Loyola University here in New Orleans. He got the idea for Feelgoodz while traveling in Thailand and picking up a pair of what was marketed as “Thailand’s most comfortable, all-natural rubber flip-flop.” Thailand is the world’s leading exporter of natural rubber, so it was only natural that Kyle would seek to combine his love of Thailand with his life-long love of flip-flops.
Kyle and his partners are currently working to help develop a Fair Trade Natural Rubber Program in Thailand. They’re also very mindful that all of the employees of their suppliers are treated fairly. Feelgoodz has partnered with Kiva, 1% for the Planet and Idea Village to make their mission of social and environmental change happen.
You can learn more about their history, mission, or order your own pair at the Feelgoodz website.
UPDATE: Feelgoodz has graciously offered Miss Malaprop readers a special coupon code, MALAPROP, for $5 off PLUS $5 flat rate shipping on all orders at the Feelgoodz online store. (No expiration, no limit!)
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These are really cool. Thanks for the link!!
my brother knows these people and gave me a pair for xmas… they are soooo comfortable!
After I read this I had to get some. I got them today. Really cute and comfy! I think I could walk a lot in these without getting blisters anywhere! I may have to order some different colors!
The original Feelgoodz http://www.hippobloo.com/
As you can see even the manufacturer doesn’t claim they are 100% Rubber and there is no mention of this supposedly “biodegradable grade” rubber
Jeannie & Bridget, it’s great to hear that these are so comfortable!
Anita, if something is made from 100% all natural latex rubber, which comes from rubber trees, then it should be biodegradable by definition, right?