Recyclers Do Some Sole Searching
DEAR HOT: I’m an ultra-recycler; I even buy secondhand clothes. My problem is shoes. I’ve tried used shoes, but because they’ve taken on the shape of their previous owner’s feet, they’re usually uncomfortable. Is there any way my feet can help save the Earth--painlessly?
DEAR HOT SHOPPER: Grab yourself a pair of DejaShoes, “the footwear with a past.” Created by Julie Lewis, an all-out recycler like you, a DejaShoe features a sole of 100% reclaimed tire rubber. The outer fabric feels like sturdy canvas and the lining feels like soft cotton, but both are made of 100% “post-commercial polypropylene” (that’s scrap from hospital gowns and diapers, to you and me). The padding is 100% reclaimed foam rubber.
The DejaShoe resembles a classic, lace-up walking shoe. It looks brand-new. I tried on a pair and they felt terrific. Unfortunately, the DejaShoe is available only in women’s sizes, one style and one color--light tan.
There are no retail outlets in Southern California for the DejaShoe, but they can be ordered for $49.95 a pair (sizes 5 to 11, including half sizes and narrow, medium and wide widths) by calling DejaShoe in Lake Oswego, Ore., at (503) 636-1887.
DEAR HOT SHOPPERS: Lands’ End has a new catalogue devoted exclusively to men’s shirts, ties, tie clips, brass collar stays and suspenders. I asked Michael Quintanilla, a Times staffer who has more than 200 great-looking ties, if there was anything in the catalogue he might like to own. He thumbed through it, writing off most of the ties as too predictable, but eventually found five or six he would like to add to his collection.
He even posed for this week’s Hot photo, wearing his favorite, a knockoff of an Hermes-style, equestrian-themed tie. Best of all, he appreciated the prices ($30.50 for the regular-length equestrian tie in silk twill; $31.50 for long). To order, call (800) 356-4444.
