The eye-catching Timberland Solar Wave sneakers offer much comfort while keeping carbon footprints light. Both silhouettes hit stores on March 1.

Last year, Timberland introduced a more sustainably made edition of its heritage yellow boot, indicating its shift towards more sustainable production processes. This year, Timberland takes that concept to its sneakers-like range, the Solar Wave. 

The pack offers two options — a more rugged high-top dubbed the Solar Wave Hiker and a low-top Solar Wave Oxford Low. Both achieve the trifecta of a good shoe: Street style ready, having sustainable construction and offering performance prowess. 

Greener material, Better Leather

The Timberland Hi-Vis sneakers are fitted with GreenStride Comfort Soles, midsoles that are made from sugar cane and responsibly sourced rubber. Sugar cane is believed to be a safe renewable resource while the rubber is sourced from plantations that do not contribute to deforestation. The organic foam provides all the necessary comfort and durability of a modern midsole while minimizing the environmental impact of its creation.

The leather used on the uppers is Better Leather certified and are produced by tanneries that are Silver-rated. Awarded by the Leather Working Group coalition, the Silver and Gold-ratings verify that the recipient tannery employs appropriate environmentally conscious business practices that reduce air emissions, water pollution, waste, and restricted substance handling — in short, the leather they produce has minimal impact on the environment. 

The complementing plastic panels and mesh, also on the upper, are made with ReBOTL fabrics, of which 50% is composed of recycled plastics.

Light on the environment, rugged everywhere else

Despite the Solar Wave series being more sneaker than boot, you can expect Timberland to inject elements of toughness into these shoes, in keeping with its legacy for making rugged footwear.

To prevent slipping during wet weather, the plush GreenStride soles are reinforced with rubber lugged outsoles. Apart from providing necessary traction, they also help to bolster durability.

The uppers of the Hiker and Oxford Low have been treated with the Defender Repellent System that wicks away water, keeping the shoes dry and stain-free in any condition. Bumper and heel pieces made from climbing rubber have been added to reinforce the upper, ensuring your feet are always protected.

The Timberland Solar Wave Hiker and Solar Wave Oxford Low will be available at Timberland stores on March 1 and Lazada on March 15. 

All images: Timberland