Giving waste a second life is the winning bet of VEGEA with its Grape Skin. This innovative material, made from grape waste from Italian wine production, is appealing for its qualities:
Elegant and refined: with its soft texture and subtle nuances, Grape Skin offers an aesthetic that is both modern and sophisticated.
Time-tested durability: more than just a slogan, it's a proven reality! And above all, tested in the workshop: I've been wearing Grape Skin sneakers daily for over a year, and they are still impeccable! Easy to clean: a simple soft, damp cloth is enough to keep it spotless. Water-resistant and can be waterproofed. Waste valorization: grape waste, usually discarded, is transformed into a valuable raw material. Ecological process: the manufacturing process uses little energy and water and generates no toxic waste.
Circular and responsible: certified GRS (Global Recycled Standard), Grape Skin meets the strictest standards for recycling and environmental respect.
Its manufacturing process:
- Waste recovery: skins, seeds, residues.
- Grinding the waste and mixing it with grape seed oil and water-based polyurethane to obtain a thick paste. Water-based polyurethane is a more ecological alternative to traditional polyurethane. It notably offers the following advantages:
Reduced energy and water consumption: the manufacturing process of water-based polyurethane requires less energy and water than that of traditional polyurethane, thus reducing the overall carbon footprint. Fewer harmful substances: the solvents used in water-based polyurethane are less toxic than those present in traditional polyurethane, offering better protection for health and the environment. Better for workers: emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are also reduced with water-based polyurethane, thus improving working conditions in manufacturing plants.
3. Application of a plant-based dye to the paste, which will then be spread on a recycled polyester canvas and compressed with a roller to become a flexible, grained material reminiscent of leather. VEGEA® is composed of 55% grape marc and 45% water-based PU and is mounted on a recycled polyester canvas and is REACH, GRS, and PETA - VEGAN APPROVED certified.