Fashion house Stella McCartney has partnered with material science company Balena to launch a new version of its sustainable S-Wave Sport sneakers.
The soles of the shoes are made with Balena’s BioCir® Flex material, which biodegrades into renewable biomass when composted in industrial facilities and can be recycled for continuous use. BioCir® Flex is made from sustainable sources like castor beans, oils, and polysaccharides, which do not compete with food resources. It is dyed with natural cinnamon, and is claimed to be as durable as TPU and as flexible as rubber.
The white version of the sneakers features Piñayarn® mesh panelling, made with pineapple leaf fibres sourced from agricultural waste. This material is a zero-waste, biobased alternative to fossil fuel-based plastics.
The Wine version has uppers made from an engineered recycled polyester knit, with details made from a recycled suede alternative; this helps to limit the use of virgin fossil fuel-based fibers. The tongue and lining are made from sustainable hemp, while the label is spun from organic cotton.
“Landmark collaboration”
Stella McCartney is known for using sustainable, cruelty-free, and innovative materials. Earlier this year, the fashion house launched a handbag made with a unique fungi-based leather alternative.
Previously, Stella McCartney has introduced garments and accessories made with plastic-free vegan leather and plant-based sequins.
“We are thrilled to announce a landmark collaboration with Stella McCartney, a trailblazer in sustainable fashion,” says Balena. “BioCir® Flex, a compostable, recyclable, and bio-based alternative to conventional plastics, exemplifies the shared vision between Balena and Stella McCartney: combining innovation and circularity to create truly sustainable design.”
The new sneakers are now available as part of Stella McCartney’s Autumn 2025 collection.
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