A fresh, minimalist brand from Portugal, JAK, is excited to launch in the UK with an exclusive collection at the renowned Selfridges department store in London. Known for its dedication to sustainable fashion, fine craftsmanship, and sleek design, JAK’s entrance into the British market marks a major milestone for the brand. With an emphasis on high-quality sneakers, the company is bringing a unique blend of sophistication and responsibility to the world of footwear.
Originally founded in Lisbon, JAK has cultivated a strong following across Europe and beyond. Their sneakers are crafted using ethically sourced materials and designed to last, focusing on both style and environmental impact. This new collaboration with Selfridges represents JAK’s first retail presence in the UK, offering a prime opportunity for British customers to experience the brand’s understated luxury and commitment to quality.
Isabel Henriques da Silva, Co-Founder and Creative Director of JAK, shared her excitement about the launch, saying, “We are excited to bring JAK to the UK, starting with such an iconic partner as Selfridges. Our dedication to craftsmanship, design, and sustainability aligns perfectly with the values of today’s conscious consumer. We look forward to introducing JAK’s minimalist yet luxurious footwear to UK shoppers.”
The JAK collection will be available from April 14th in the Men’s Footwear Department on the first floor of Selfridges in London. Customers can also shop the collection online through JAK’s UK website.
JAK: A Commitment to Sustainability and Quality
JAK is redefining what it means to create premium sneakers, with a strong focus on sustainable practices and timeless designs. Based in Lisbon, the brand is known for its high-quality, ethically produced footwear, made in family-run factories in Portugal. Their shoes reflect a commitment to both style and environmental responsibility, with materials that are both sustainable and carefully chosen for their durability and performance.
Since its inception in 2014, JAK has continually challenged traditional manufacturing processes, always questioning the origin and impact of the materials used in their products. By making mindful choices about the materials they use, JAK aims to reduce their ecological footprint and encourage a more sustainable lifestyle for both the brand and its customers.
Some key materials used by JAK include:
- AppleSkin™: A unique material made from apple cores and peels, sourced from Italy. AppleSkin™ offers the same mechanical resistance as synthetic fabrics but is significantly more eco-friendly. By replacing polyurethane with apple waste, JAK helps reduce carbon emissions.
- onSteam® Microfibre: A high-performance, vegan material sourced from Spain. This fabric is breathable, moisture-absorbent, quick-drying, and hypoallergenic, making it perfect for the linings of JAK’s vegan sneakers.
- Leather: JAK’s leather comes from Portugal and Italy and is sourced from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group. The leather used is a byproduct of the food industry and is tanned with minimal environmental impact.
- Leather Midsoles: Made from vegetable-tanned leather, these midsoles are tanned using natural oils. They mold to your feet over time and provide a superior, breathable experience.
- Organic Cotton Knit: GOTS-certified organic cotton is sourced from India and Turkey and then knitted and dyed in Portugal. JAK ensures that this process uses minimal water and eco-friendly dyes, making it a sustainable choice for their sweaters.
- Organic Cotton Canvas: This breathable fabric, made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, is used in the uppers of JAK’s vegan sneakers. It’s woven and dyed in Spain and offers a perfect balance of flexibility, sturdiness, and softness.
- SBR ECO Rubber Soles: Made in Portugal, these soles incorporate up to 70% recycled rubber, combining durability with comfort and resistance to wear.
- Cork: A naturally renewable material, cork is used in the bases of all JAK sneakers. Not only is it recyclable, but it also has hypoallergenic and anti-fungal properties, making it an ideal choice for footwear.
With JAK’s debut in the UK, it’s clear that the brand is committed to offering high-quality, sustainable footwear that doesn’t compromise on style or comfort. Their attention to craftsmanship and responsible production makes them a standout in the world of premium sneakers.
