Old Desma machines help Keen
27/01/2011
The initiative, called the Santiago project, has the aim of simplifying the manufacturing process to create footwear with the lowest possible impact on the environment and maximum positive impact on the consumer.
As part of this process the Keen manufacturing team searched the globe and sourced over 200 Desma machines that the footwear brand says had lain unused for decades. Keen wanted to put them to use again because they use less energy and adhesive than the machines of today. The equipment, Desma vulcanising machines, was well known and used throughout Europe during the 1950s and 1960s. Keen repaired and refurbished them ready for production.
To reduce their carbon emissions further, Keen decided to build a factory in Santiago, Dominican Republic, close to its main sales market in the US, meaning reduced transportation time and emissions. The Santiago shoes are produced by a local workforce and have a hand-stitched upper made from natural canvas. Using direct vulcanisation (only pressure and heat, no adhesives), natural rubber is pressed onto the upper, forming the sole and the toecap at the same time.
From autumn 2011 onwards, the electricity required to heat the moulds will be obtained solely from solar energy. Supple canvas uppers and cushioned, canvas covered footbeds with springy natural rubber ensure the Santiago delivers high levels of comfort, the brand says.
As part of the Santiago initiative, Keen will also donate $5 dollars for each pair of shoes sold worldwide to establish a microfinance fund, run in conjunction with KIVA, an expert in micro-finance, that will offer small loans to people around the world with entrepreneurial ideas.
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