I Heart Tom's Shoes

I've been wanting to write a post on Tom's Shoes for ages, finally he's done something not only socially responsible but eco friendly too! Ya Tom's Shoes!

Blake Mycoskie, Tom's Shoe founder has been making shoes since March 2006. He's philosophy is this: Sell shoes, give shoes. He sells his shoes for roughly $40 bucks then donates a pair to a child who needs it all around the world. He was inspired while travelling and picked up the idea in Argentina by copying the shoes he saw kids wearing. He added rubber soles and some spiffy colors and patterns and bam! Great shoes with a soul.

Blake has now taken it to the next level by creating a shoe made with hemp. And to quote my post on the benefits of hemp:

Hemp also has huge environmental benefits as well. Because the plant is resistant to insects they require no pesticides, herbicides or chemical fertilizers. This helps reduce the runoff of chemicals into our waterways and into the soil. And unlike conventionally grown (non-organic) cotton, hemp does not deplete the soil of rich nutrients. Just to make this point hit home, ½ of all agricultural chemicals sprayed in this country are on conventionally grown cotton. Enough said.

These shoe make great gifts and they also make adorable kids versions, hemp or not, I love Tom's Shoes! Check out this great picture of Blake with the kids who inspire him (I have to admit I might have a little crush on Blake)

Visit: http://www.tomsshoes.com/

(Image: tomsshoes.com)