AGAZI vegan footwear (made by women refugees in Poland)

AGAZI is a great brand of comfortable vegan footwear from Poland, with design and manufacture under one roof (no outsourcing to the far east for more profits here). Most of the shoemakers are women (many came from Ukraine to Poland as refugees, due to the war). So purchase helps give them a decent income and job.

These are not ‘high fashion’ shoes, but designed to be comfortable and last for years. There are no ‘seasonal collections’, instead the shoes are made with quality materials, and designed in particular with sensitive feet in mind. Shipping is fast and affordable, so a couple of pairs should last you years.

The range includes a wide variety of styles. From apple leather sneakers (made from the waste of apples in northern Europe) to ballerina flats.

You’ll also find high-heel stilettos for occasional nights out, to cool everyday pumps.

Second Leg return programme

AGAZI also runs a return program. You can send worn pairs back to the brand, and they will be cleaned and refurnished and then given to someone who needs a decent pair of shoes.

Why choose vegan footwear?

• They avoid animal-derived materials. Leather, suede, wool and some glues can be used in footwear, so shoppers who avoid animal products may prefer shoes made without them. If a brand’s description is unclear, ask about the whole shoe—not only the upper.
• They offer more choice. Vegan footwear can use textiles, recycled fibres and other alternatives to leather, with different looks and feels.
• They can prompt more thoughtful shopping. “Vegan” doesn’t automatically mean sustainable or long-lasting. Check the materials, care guidance and construction, and choose a pair you expect to wear often.
• They suit different reasons. Some people choose vegan shoes for ethical reasons; others simply prefer not to wear leather. There’s no single reason people make the switch.

Interesting context: animal welfare in Poland

Poland has a long-established animal protection law, that passed in 1997. The movement is growing to protect animals (Bohema is another vegan footwear brand). There is much work to do.

For instance unlike England there is not yet a ban on producing fur (England is still campaigning for a ban on the sale of imported fur). But there are many good people making progress in Poland.