FAQ

Why SOLK Exists

SOLK is the first sneaker brand built entirely around full lifecycle solutions. A brand based on 100% biocircularity and being ultimately harmless helps break the one-way path to landfill. We hope to inspire others to join this journey

A favourite shoe should feel timeless, easy to wear, and stand out. Our challenge was to pair this with a clear end-of-life solution: without losing comfort or style. True design goes beyond looks; it’s about smart materials and building with biocircular principles in mind.

We design products to be both desirable and ultimately harmless. This means rethinking how sneakers are made, testing materials, and choosing the right suppliers. Offering compost-capable shoes in various colours with high-quality finish is a first: something we're proud of.

Our Product Approach

We believe in transparency and share as much as we responsibly can. However, as a new brand, innovation is our edge. Full disclosure of every detail could compromise intellectual property or offer competitors an unfair advantage.

  • Loosen laces before wearing to reduce stress.
  • Avoid sprays and coatings.
  • Clean with a soft brush or damp cloth.
  • No soaking or washing machines.
  • Store in a dry, cool place.

We use carefully chosen compost-capable materials. Upper leather is chrome- and heavy metal-free. The lining is zero-waste and biobased. Laces are made with Tencel. The sole combines natural rubber with Made to Fade foam. Every component is third-party tested.

We plan to offer vegan footwear in the future. Most vegan materials currently aren't compostable or premium enough. We’re actively researching better options.

We don’t currently use recycled materials because we can’t always ensure they’re toxin-free. Biocircularity is our focus. We're exploring ways to reuse our own production offcuts.

End-of-Life Commitment

SOLKs are lifestyle sneakers, not sports shoes. Designed to last with proper care. Made from natural materials, so small imperfections may occur. Durability is tested extensively.

We encourage returns via our take-back service. Composting shoes at home is difficult, so we created a custom system. Returned sneakers are composted in batches.

Shoes are shredded, mixed with natural waste, and composted in industrial conditions. We have facilities in Germany and Vietnam.

There are no formal composting standards for footwear, so we created our own: high compost quality, 70% breakdown in 3 months, materials lab-tested, no toxic residue.

They’re ultimately harmless, but decomposition is slow without grinding. Don't put them in municipal organic bins. Best to return them to us.

Packaging & Impact

Yes. It's made from FSC-certified recycled paper, no wax or plastic coatings, and printed with soy-based inks. Fully recyclable.

We produce our sneakers in our own factory in Vietnam. Founders have over 20 years’ experience there. We follow local laws and conduct third-party audits.

Our own factory in Ho Chi Minh City ensures full control over production and team welfare. We treat our factory as part of the SOLK family.