In the heart of nature's most unforgiving landscapes, where survival hinges on every step taken, the need for dependable footwear is paramount. Vivobarefoot's Ecological Survival Collection (ESC) emerges as a beacon of innovation and sustainability, curated to empower explorers across the planet's five core biomes: the jungle, desert, forest, aquatic environments, and tundra. Lee Kingston-Spiteri, Design Specialist at Vivobarefoot, offers an insider's perspective on the ESC's genesis and ethos.
"The ESC collection originated from a simple need – durability," reveals Kingston-Spiteri. "But it swiftly evolved into a deeper exploration of our evolutionary past and a commitment to embracing, rather than escaping, the wilderness."
Contrary to the conventional approach of shielding wearers from nature's elements, ESC embodies a philosophy of symbiosis with the environment. Each design is meticulously crafted in collaboration with wilderness experts and field-tested to ensure optimal performance in its designated biome. From the Hydra ESC for aquatic environments to the forthcoming Tundra and Desert iterations, every ESC shoe is a testament to the fusion of traditional ecological wisdom with cutting-edge design.
"ESC represents a paradigm shift in outdoor footwear," Kingston-Spiteri explains. "We've discarded the notion of conquering nature and instead embraced the concept of coexistence. It's about forging a connection with our surroundings while equipping adventurers with the tools they need to thrive."
The ESC journey began with a visionary question posed by Wilderness Skills Instructor Ben McNutt to Vivobarefoot Co-Founder Galahad Clark in 2013. Drawing inspiration from ancient human exploration and indigenous knowledge systems, the ESC team embarked on a quest to create footwear that transcends utility, fostering a deeper kinship between wearer and environment.
"Our research process was immersive and collaborative," Kingston-Spiteri shares. "We immersed ourselves in the wisdom of local communities and survival experts, synthesizing centuries of knowledge into every design decision."
A cornerstone of the ESC collection is its commitment to ecological sustainability. While prioritizing durability and performance, Vivobarefoot navigates the complexities of global supply chains with a conscious eye towards material selection. From free-roaming wild hide leather to innovative fabrics like Cordura and Dyneema, each material is chosen for its biome-specific suitability and ecological footprint.
"Sustainability isn't a destination; it's a journey," asserts Kingston-Spiteri. "We're continually refining our processes and materials to minimize environmental impact while maintaining the integrity of our products."
As the ESC collection continues to evolve, Vivobarefoot remains steadfast in its mission to redefine the relationship between humans and nature. By embracing the principles of coexistence and innovation, ESC paves the way for a new era of conscious exploration, one step at a time.
"ESC isn't just about footwear; it's about forging a deeper connection with the world around us," concludes Kingston-Spiteri. "With each stride, we're venturing boldly and treading softly, honouring the intricate dance of life that sustains us all."
Shop the collection here.
