The Nomad is the second generation of sneaker Rens has developed, following the success of the Original shoe launch in 2019, also funded via a Kickstarter raise that hit $500,000. This time around, the startup is aiming to become Finland’s biggest kickstarter to date, with a target of $1m, which will be used to manufacture and distribute the shoes.

Backers of the kickstarter campaign, which went live last week, will receive pairs of shoes dependent on their investment. The Nomad shoe will retail at $119 and is available around the world.

The Nomad shoe is available in nine colourways, features patented ‘Skystep’ ventilation technology, and is constructed entirely from planet-friendly recycled plastic and a composite material made from recycled coffee grounds. It was designed after listening to feedback from the Original, with a more sleek, fashionable look, while retaining its famed durability.

The tech-heavy, waterproof, ultralight sneaker was designed with performance in mind, and has stood up to hiking, walking, and running trials under a number of conditions. The new Skystep performance midsole utilises precision air intakes placed at the heel and sole for increased ventilation and breathability in every step while maintaining total waterproof protection.

The recycled coffee grounds keep bacteria and odours out. It is a multipurpose shoe designed to stay fresh and comfortable whatever activity the wearer is doing.

First and foremost, this sneaker is an environmental statement, designed to combat plastic pollution and food waste. Rens has a mission to extend the life cycle of existing products, while reducing the need for landfill through producing the ultimate sustainable sneaker

Jesse Tran, Chief Executive and Founder said: “What better way to reduce your carbon ‘footprint’ than with a shoe designed with the environment in mind? We’re super proud and incredibly excited to be back raising capital for the latest iteration of our product.

“We’ve listened and learnt from the first time around and couldn’t be happier. We want to prove that there is another way – that fashion and performance needn’t come at the cost of the planet.

“As environmental awareness increases, so too does knowledge of the circular economy. Shoes made from recycled coffee grounds may seem novel to some, but we wholeheartedly believe that this is just the beginning of a revolution in garment technology and manufacturing. Plastic pollution and food waste present real problems – reducing them is not just an ambition, it’s a necessity.”