Athletic shoes manufacturer ASICS ceases use of kangaroo leather in its products, mirroring Adidas's decision.
In a significant move for animal welfare and the athletic shoe industry, Asics has announced it will stop using kangaroo leather by the end of 2025. The decision comes amidst growing concerns about the ethical implications of using kangaroo skin in product manufacturing.
Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy made the announcement, praising Asics for setting an ethical standard in the industry. The Kangaroo Protection Act of 2025, a U.S. bill that aims to ban commercial imports, sales, and manufacturing of kangaroo products in the U.S., also received support from Animal Wellness Action.
Asics' move follows a similar announcement by rival athleticwear firm Adidas, which ended its use of kangaroo leather this year. Other major brands such as Nike, Puma, New Balance, Diadora, and Sokito have also made similar proclamations regarding their usage of kangaroo skin. Sokito, in fact, announced its decision to stop using all animal products last year.
The perception of the use of kangaroo leather as 'ethical' is starting to change, with consumer demand for kangaroo skin products diminishing. This shift in consumer sentiment may pose reputational risks, regulatory threats, and potential protests and lawsuits for companies that continue to use kangaroo skin.
Victoria Garafola, the Center for a Humane Economy representative in Japan, said ASICS is setting an ethical standard and hopes Mizuno will follow. Mizuno, currently the last major athletic shoe brand still using kangaroo leather, is now the focus of Animal Wellness Action's efforts.
Asics has developed an alternative to kangaroo skin, but no details about this alternative have been disclosed yet. For more insights into Asics' recent moves and its commitment to sustainability, you might find the articles "Asics continues to lead resale as holiday season approaches: report" by Lara Ewen (Nov. 18, 2024) and "Asics creates a circular shoe, returns program" by Xanayra Marin-Lopez (April 19, 2024) interesting reading.
As the athletic shoe industry evolves, it's clear that ethical considerations are becoming increasingly important. As companies like Asics and Adidas make these significant changes, it's hoped that others will follow suit, ensuring a more sustainable and ethical future for the industry.
