Treading The Sustainable, Charitable Streets Of South Africa's Sandal Market

The logo above may be Greek to us, but in reality its origins are a far cry from the Mediterranean.

The word "Plakkies" means slippers in Afrikaans, and the simple black footprint against contrasting yellow background is meant to represent the South African company's line of recycled footwear with plenty of heart and "soul" to spare.

These aren't just any sandals, mind you, but sustainable and locally sourced versions that are inspired in part by the African tradition of transforming old tires into footwear.

Comprised of 40% leather and 60% old recycled tires, the only material that is obtained from outside the country is the Portugal-imported cork sole since they can not yet find a comparable material of equal quality or comfort.

Adorning the insoles of each pair of Plakkies are drawings created by orphans from Durban slums.

100% of the profits from all Plakkies footwear are donated to the KidsRights’ charity projects in South Africa (which currently supports approximately 700 youth in the area).

The Ubuntu Plakkies factory in Durban, South Africa is also a source of hope for many area residents since they are able to obtain steady employment there (despite the area's abject poverty and incredibly high rates of HIV).

At last count, Plakkies was employing 70 local residents and offering the following perks:

1) a generous salary that supports at least 10 family members

2) hot lunch

3) anti-retroviral drugs

4) HIV prevention resources

Of course Plakkies sandals smell like car tires, but isn't that part of their charm?