Quick Take: Rottua Sandals Creates Unique Sandals From Old Bike Tires
We like recyclers and we have a particular appreciation for bike product recyclers. Tires is an area that needs attention because if we all combined our pile of used bike tires together, we may have a pretty good sized mountain. It’s so cool to try new bike tires since they’re affordable and can significantly impact the way our bikes climb and descend. But what do we do with our old tires? We think we are going to use them again, especially the ones with good tread but most probably, we’re not.
And is there a worse feeling that stacking a bunch of tires and tubes in the garbage can? It feels so wrong as they’re useful products and they occupy so much space in the bin.
And what about these new wheel sizes? What are we going to do with the old tires as we move from one wheel size to another? Any guesses on how many ‘old wheel size’ tires are about to get thrown in the landfill?
So Rottua is here making handmade sandals in California from old tires and tubes. It’s a valiant cause worth supporting. They’re active in many events like Sea Otter, Downieville Classic and Tour of California as they collect old tires from any of the event participants.
They’re also taking the recycling and reuse mantra to heart in all their company materials. Shipping boxes, display stands, product tags and holders are creatively made from scrap materials. Through all this, they still maintain a clean and attractive branding image, punching holes instead of printing logos for example.
We’ve been using the MTB Headlands model for a month now and it has awesome build quality. The sole has nice grip and the straps are snug yet comfortable. And of course, the hallmark is it looks awesome and is a great conversation starter at the trail head. Each sandal is unique as they use whatever tire is available for materials. Riding buddies are envious and the bike nerds are able to quickly identify the brand/model of tires used in the sandal.
It is expensive at $80 but it is not far off from high quality sandals. The sizing is a hair small compared to the industry and there are no half sizes available. The MTB Headlands that we tried has a hard sole and we really wish for more cushioning as our sore and sensitive feet need all the TLC they can get.
So on your next sandal purchase, consider Rottua. At the very least, don’t dump your old tires and tubes in the trash bin.
MTB Headlands Product Details
- Treads for sandal straps and print on toe bridges will vary per order***
- Color scheme of sandal will match as shown**
- Vegan friendly, performance Ultrasuede for upper lining and footbed
- Arch support
- “Snug Fit” design
- Natural rubber in each sole for added flexibility and comfort
- Dual density, foot molding, EVA footbed
- 100% handmade in California
- MSRP $79.95
What They Do
ROTTUA represents reusing, recycling, and repurposing. We created a network with local bike stores throughout the Bay Area and beyond who believe in the mission of keeping tubes and tires above ground.
We collect, sort, and grade each tire from local bike stores and donate reusable tires to local charities.
We recycle and extract rubber from old bicycle tires. Every ROTTUA Sandal sole is made in California using recycled rubber and a special blend to perform and endure longer mileage.
We repurpose and hand-select the best quality tires and tubes for sandal straps and toe bridges which makes each pair unique.
For more information visit www.rottua.com.
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