The transformational sneaker

The Fourline name encapsulates the four concepts that generated the project: ‘Made in Italy’, sustainability, recycling, and innovation. Four declarations of intent that express the thoughts of the new generations in determining a business model that respects the environment and the circular economy. In fact, the idea of Fourline was born during the lockdown by two very young brothers from Bergamo, Alessandro and Lorenzo Carboni aged 20 and 19, both university students in a period that was difficult for socialising and sharing, but was productive for reflecting on the changes and challenges facing fashion. During the months of distance learning, they therefore had the idea of creating a sneaker that concentrated the need for recycling, customisation, and a green attitude. Hence the “four” of their logo, that plays with the English “for”, therefore “four the planet and four the future”. In line with this, their shoes have uppers in recycled leather, linings in natural cotton, and soles with 50% rubber from production waste. But this was not enough: to give the shoe a longer life and stimulate creativity, there is also the possibility of replacing some parts of the shoe from time to time such as the heel, the tongue, and the laces to renew and update the product with a view to the new fashion mantra “buy less, but better”. Furthermore, this allows retailers and shops to recycle and restock by replacing patches and combining different colours, graphics, and patterns. Another important component of the project is the ‘Made in Italy’ production, created by Lake, a Brescia-based company that has been operating in the footwear sector for over 10 years and ensures periodic reorders.