Please Don’t Buy Crocodile Skin Shoes
They may be super-scary, but crocodiles (and alligators) do not deserve to suffer, for the fashion industry. Not only are they often used to make shoes (especially ‘luxury loafers), bags and wallets, but some have been reportedly skinned alive to supply skin for ‘luxury fashion brands’.
Some high-end fashion brands (including Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Hermès) still use crocodile skin in their products. Victoria Beckham does not crocodile skin, but instead uses calf leather to replicate crocodile skin, when it’s perfectly possible to find good plant-based leathers these days, to use instead.
The ethical fashion rating site Good on You rates Victoria Beckham’s fashion brand as ‘poor’ on animal welfare, environment and human labour. And recommends switching to Stella McCartney instead.
Crocodiles (like all scary creatures) have important roles to play in ecosystems. They are not greedy, and only eat what they need (crocs kill around 1000 people a year, compared to millions by mosquitoes due to malaria).
The world’s largest reptiles (with the world’s strongest bite) always have their mouths open to regulate temperature, not because they are trying to eat you. They even let little Egyptian plover birds eat from their mouths, as natural toothbrushes!
Smart Vegan Cactus Leather Shoes!
Cactus leather is often the ideal alternative to crocodile or calf leather, for luxury loafers. Ross Oliver makes quality men’s shoes from unique men’s smart shoes, that are kind to crocodiles, the planet and your feet!
Traditional leather also uses a lot of water and harsh chemicals. Cactus grows with little water and needs no pesticides. Every pair cuts down pollution and water waste, making them a solid pick for the planet.
Natural cactus fibres make for a flexible, breathable material. Your feet get to breathe and move as they need, which helps prevent blisters and other aches.
These are not cheap, but then neither are any luxury shoe brands. These are designed to offer an alternative to people who would buy expensive designer footwear. Get your feet measured in a shoe shop first, to avoid the hassle of returns.
It’s best to buy two pairs and wear them alternatively, to let your feet dry out. This helps to make your cactus leather shoes last longer!
