Okabashi is Likely a Fully Vegan Brand

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Okabashi Brand Overview

"Recycled and recyclable shoes proudly made in the USA since 1984. Our proprietary vegan, bio-based material contains soy that is sustainably grown in the USA. Our kid's shoes are durable, comfortable, and easy for kids to put on themselves. Slip-resistant. 2-year quality guarantee." - Okabashi team

About Okabashi

"Since 1984, Okabashi Brands has been a family owned and operated shoe company in the small town of Buford, Georgia. We take pride in making each Okabashi sandal a source of comfort and happiness. Our shoes with active arch support, massage beads, and two year guarantee, have garnered a loyal fan base. We stand for quality with a 2-year manufacturer guarantee." - Okabashi team

Are Okabashi shoes waterproof?

Yes! In the description of each product on their page, Okabashi lists the water resistance or proofing status of that model. All of the models we checked were waterproof.

What materials are used to make their footwear?

Okabashi uses a proprietary, bio-based material that contains 45% soy by weight and is BPA, latex, rubber, and phthalate-free. They also grind up shoes that come back to them for recycling and use the materials to create new shoes.

Are Okabashi shoes eco-friendly/sustainable?

While it can be hard to definitively say "yes" or "no," Okabashi's main approach to sustainable production, is to use bio-based and recycled materials, as well as to produce their materials from close to where their shoes are made.

Does they create a lot of CO2 emissions making their shoes?

From a carbon footprint standpoint, it's difficult to asses the impact that Okabashi has, and what they do to remediate it. The brand does not currently provide data as to their environmental impact or remediation efforts, so it's difficult to accurately asses their CO2 impact. However, Okabashi produces their main material, and their entire shoes, in the USA, meaning that the materials don't have to travel far, which would cut down on CO2 emissions, especially when compared to companies who import many of their materials from afar.

Does Okabashi use green shipping methods?

It's unclear from their website if the brand uses net-zero or negative emissions shipping partners, either domestically or internationally. We’ve asked them for clarification, and are currently awaiting reply.

Do they use eco-friendly packaging?

It's unclear from their website if Okabashi uses recycled, recyclable, compostable, or other forms of eco-friendly and sustainable packaging. We’ve asked them for details regarding the materials they use for packaging, and are currently awaiting reply.

Do they promote ‘slow fashion’ or a ‘circular economy’?

Okabashi incorporates several elements of a circular economy/slow fashion model, such as: employing fair labour; using eco-friendly materials (bio-based plastics and recycled materials); producing their main materials close to where they produce their shoes; and having a recycling program.

Are Okabashi shoes recyclable?

Yes! You can either send them back to Okabashi for recycling, or, the brand suggests contacting your local recycling facility and ask for details if you prefer to recycle them yourself (and they advise to make sure you remove any embellishments first). If you send them back to the company, it will be on your own dime, but the company will credit you with 15% off your next purchase.

Where can I buy Okabashi shoes and sandals?

Okabashi shoes and sandals can be purchased from their website, although if you're ordering from outside of the United States or Canada, you'll need to contact customer service to place your order.

Do their shoes ever go on sale?

Yes - they have a VIP program, details of which can be found under the “Current Promotions” section of their website, which allows you to sign up for SMS text message alerts for deals and discounts. Okabashi also has a Military Discount prorgam, which offers 10% off for active duty military personnel, veterans, retired military, military spouses, and dependents.

Where are Okabashi shoes made?

Their shoes, boots and sandals are handmade in Buford, Georgia, USA.

Are Okabashi shoes made with fair labour?

Yes! Okabashi shoes are made in Georgia, USA, which means their labourers are protected by the stringent labor laws of the United States, which also include strong health and safety regulations. According to the Okabashi team, "Our female leadership team is dedicated to creating a safe and happy work environment, going above and beyond stringent US standards to create opportunity and community for our diverse 200 employees, including veterans."

Is Oka-B a charitable company?

Yes! For over 10 years, Okabashi has partnered with a non-profit organization called Soles4Souls to give over 8,000 pairs of shoes to their community. According to the brand, "With Soles4Souls, our shoes will go to survivors of natural disasters and micro-entrepreneurs in the developing world who looking to escape poverty. They will have a good home and bring someone much joy, while keeping them from going to waste!"

Okabashi Product Line

Okabashi makes plastic sandals for men and women, as well as some flats for women, and rain boots and clogs for children. Their style can be described and casual and colourful, although they do have some models with more of a dressy look.