Sustainable Sneakers Brand Lakat Launches Designs by Nazareno/Lichauco

Since its launch in 2021, Lakat Sustainables has quickly distinguished itself by crafting sneakers out of the abundant and often discarded pineapple leaves, which have been transformed into fiber by the artisans of Negros. In addition, the shoes' soles are composed of natural rubber from Mindanao, mixed with fiber scraps discarded during the yarn spinning process. This meticulous approach ensures that even the by-products of production are utilized, minimizing waste.

Lakat has since partnered with Filipino artists to come out with limited-edition designs, such as the LAKArt series by Garapata, Lilianna Manahan, and Doktor Karayom, showcased at Art Fair 2024. ArteFino Fair 2024 is another avenue for Lakat to launch its latest collection of eight styles by design duo Nazareno/Lichauco (N/L). The new design is inspired by concepts of being in nature, finding happiness, and connecting to wellness.

Lakat Designs by Nazareno/Lichauco

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"In this post-pandemic, digital age, Nazareno/Lichauco longed to return to nature, history, and utilitarianism. When one thinks utilitarian, it is about something designed to be practical or useful. In philosophy, utilitarianism is a concept that prescribes actions to maximize happiness and well-being. That, after all, is why we are here on earth anyway, isn’t it?" Lakat co-founder Michael Claparols said in a statement.

To ensure eco-friendliness, azo-free dyes were used on Philippine tropical fibers, producing earth tones mixed with vibrant reds, pinks, and purples to hark on memories of traveling to the beach, glamping near the lake, and coming close to nature. Curves and waves are also part of the motif, which—according to the Lakat team—"goes hand in hand with Lakat’s sustainability goals of supporting life below water, not only on land."

"This is the first time we designed for a certain type of pineapple fiber, and we really wanted to play with colors, contrasts, and shapes. Using the azo-free dyes was definitely important, especially since we have to be socially conscious of the objects we design and buy," Claparols added.

Lakat x Nazareno/Lichauco will launch exclusively at Artefino Fair 2024, which will run from August 22 to 25 at The Fifth at Rockwell, 5/F Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati.