Skip to content
Yes, you read that right—your next step could be powered by yesterday’s coffee!
At Sunnystep, we’re passionate about reducing waste, so we’ve partnered with the world's best material scientists to transform used coffee grounds into the fabric for the uppers of our Dream Sneakers, Dream Oxford, and Dream Mules. It’s all about blending science, sustainability, and a little coffee magic to create a new kind of comfort.
The Problem: Waste Not, Want Not
We love coffee. But the waste it creates? Not so much.
In 2020 alone, the world consumed nearly 10 million tons of coffee, resulting in over 6 million tons of used coffee grounds. That’s about 20 grams of waste per cup of coffee—or enough grounds to fill 2,500 Olympic-sized swimming pools every year!
Most of this waste heads straight to landfills, where they create significant environmental issues:
- Methane Emissions: Decomposing coffee grounds release methane, a greenhouse gas 84 times more harmful than carbon dioxide, contributing heavily to climate change.
- Soil and Water Pollution: As coffee grounds break down, they release acids that can seep into the surrounding soil and water, harming plants and wildlife.
At Sunnystep, we asked ourselves: what if yesterday’s coffee could fuel tomorrow’s movement?
The Process: From Waste to Wonder
Transforming coffee grounds into shoes isn’t as simple as brewing a cup, but it’s just as fascinating! Here’s how it happens:
Step 1: Collecting the Grounds
We partner with suppliers to gather used coffee grounds that would otherwise end up in landfills. Every cup of coffee becomes part of a bigger, greener mission.
Step 2: Extraction - Harvesting the Good Stuff
Once we’ve collected the grounds, it’s time to extract their valuable oils. This step is key because these oils are naturally resilient, flexible, and durable—exactly what we need for high-performance polyurethane. Using eco-friendly methods, we carefully extract and treat the oils to enhance their strength and longevity, making them perfect for use in our shoe soles.
Step 3: The Blend - Crafting a Material That’s Built to Last
The magic happens when we blend these coffee oils with a series of sustainable materials. Here’s what goes into our unique mix:
- 100% Bamboo Fiber Base: A strong, biodegradable foundation that keeps the sole sturdy and eco-friendly.
- Sorona Biobased Foam Leather: This high-performance, biobased foam adds an extra layer of comfort and durability.
- Water-Based Resin: Unlike traditional adhesives, our water-based resin is non-toxic and eco-friendly, binding all the layers together seamlessly.
- Recycled Coffee Grounds: The hero of the process, providing resilience and a naturally soft feel to every step.
The result? A sole that’s durable, flexible, and sustainable.
Step 4: Final Transformation - From Grounds to Greatness
After blending, the coffee-based polyurethane is molded into our signature uppers. With coffee grounds, Sunnystep shoes offer:
- Natural Anti-Odor Function: Coffee grounds have natural odor-fighting properties, helping to keep your shoes fresh even after a long day.
- Breathability and Comfort: The structure of coffee grounds allows for enhanced airflow, making the fabric lightweight and breathable, ideal for keeping feet cool and comfortable.
- Resilience and Flexibility: Coffee grounds contain oils that add elasticity and strength to the material, ensuring each upper is durable and moves easily with your foot.
The Result: A Sustainable Step Forward
The polyurethane derived from coffee grounds isn’t just sustainable—it’s seriously comfortable. The natural resilience and cushioning effect of polyurethane make every step lighter and smoother. Plus, using coffee grounds means reducing our reliance on petroleum-based materials, which is a big win for the environment. Now, your shoes don’t just support your feet—they support a greener planet.
