Tropicfeel, a startup born in Spain, has as its main objective to advocate for sustainable fashion and tourism, emphasizing the use of versatile products such as sneakers, clothing and its innovative Shell backpack. Through the creation of sustainable clothing and accessories, Tropicfeel seeks to reduce the environmental impact that the traditional textile industry has on the planet. This approach towards a more responsible and conscious consumption has captured the attention of those who value efficiency, sustainability and adaptability in their daily lives.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about sustainable fashion and Tropicfeel products, as well as the benefits they offer to both travelers and everyday consumers.
Tropicfeel birth story
The origin of Tropicfeel dates back to a trip to Thailand, when its founder, Alberto Espinós, travelled with several friends carrying multiple pairs of shoes. Espinós, who was then working at the online investment company Crowdcube, noticed a common problem among travellers: the need to carry a lot of luggage, especially specific footwear for different activities. This trip marked a before and after, not only for him, but also for the concept of travel fashion.
During his stay, Alberto went on a 100-kilometer walk, during which he threw away two of the four pairs of shoes he had brought with him. This event culminated in a revelation: why not design versatile, comfortable and durable footwear that would work for both nature walks and urban life, thereby avoiding the over-purchase of items? This is how the idea for Tropicfeel was born.
In 2017, Alberto decided to take the plunge and develop adaptable footwear that was not only intended for tourism, but also for everyday use. This footwear would make a difference in sustainable fashion, combining practicality with environmental commitment.
Tropicfeel and its takeoff thanks to crowdfunding
Alberto Espinós, using his knowledge of crowdfunding, launched a Kickstarter campaign in 2017 to present his first sneaker model: Monsoon. The public response was overwhelming. Not only did they successfully raise funds, but the project became the most funded shoe on the platform, achieving unprecedented support. The Spanish campaign broke records, ranking 65th worldwide among more than 400.000 projects and generating a turnover of two million euros in just over 60 days. As a result, Tropicfeel produced more than 35.000 pairs of sneakers in that record time.
Shortly after, they launched their second shoe model, Canyon, which also achieved great success, managing to position itself among the most popular Kickstarter campaigns. This success not only allowed the brand to consolidate its presence in the market, but also reaffirm its commitment to sustainable fashion and the business model based on on-demand purchasing. Tropicfeel has continued to use crowdfunding to expand its product range, showing that a more responsible business model aligned with sustainable values is possible.
Tropicfeel's mission: Redefining fashion consumption
Tropicfeel's goal is not only to create sustainable products, but also to transform the consumer's relationship with fashion and reduce the impact of fast fashion, an industry that produces more than 50 seasons a year. Unsold products often end up in landfills, generating a huge environmental impact. Tropicfeel relies on an on-demand purchasing model, which means that they only produce what has already been sold. This system reduces waste and allows demand to be met in a more responsible way.
A key part of Tropicfeel’s approach is the choice of sustainable materials. Approximately 70% of the materials they use in their products are recycled, such as plastic from used bottles. To date, more than 300.000 plastic bottles have been recycled, thus preventing them from becoming hazardous waste for the environment. In addition, all their suppliers must comply with strict transparency requirements, ensuring full traceability of materials. This allows them to track the ecological impact of each product.
As a sign of its commitment to sustainability, Tropicfeel has collaborated with Thinking Mu to launch a sustainable fashion collection under the name Stand Up. This line uses materials such as hemp and organic cotton, a natural fibre that has a low environmental footprint and does not require synthetic fertilizers in its cultivation.
The role of natural fibres in sustainable fashion
Tropicfeel stands out for its use of natural fibres such as hemp, a plant that has exceptional characteristics for sustainable fashion. Its cultivation process does not require large amounts of water or agrochemicals, making it a much more environmentally friendly alternative than other more common fibres such as conventional cotton.
Hemp is not only durable, but also has a pleasant texture that can be mixed with other natural fibers such as bamboo or cotton. On an environmental level, another of its benefits lies in its ability to capture CO2 through photosynthesis, thus helping to reduce the carbon footprint of products made with this fiber.
In addition to hemp, Tropicfeel uses innovative techniques such as graphene and PrimaLoft® for its jackets, designed to be lightweight and resistant to low temperatures, ensuring maximum comfort and durability both in extreme climates and in everyday urban life.
Backpacks and accessories: Innovation and sustainability
Tropicfeel has expanded its product range beyond footwear, developing backpacks and accessories that have become benchmarks of versatility and design. One of the most iconic products is the Shell backpack, designed to adapt to different needs. This backpack can be expanded from 21 to 36 liters of capacity, making it an essential item for both everyday use and long trips. Made from 60% recycled nylon, the Shell backpack gives new life to around 30 plastic bottles for every unit produced, keeping in line with the brand's sustainable principles.
In addition, Tropicfeel builds its community through thousands of travellers who actively participate in the design of its products. The company interacts directly with its audience to develop innovations that respond to the real needs of its users, thus achieving greater consumer connection and loyalty.
Tropicfeel has also launched limited collections of backpacks inspired by major events such as the America's Cup, tailoring its products to the demanding needs of the nautical market, which has expanded its audience beyond traditional travelers.
All of these products and collaborations reinforce Tropicfeel’s commitment to changing the way we think about travel accessories, prioritizing sustainability, durability and functionality. As more people become eco-conscious, Tropicfeel is at the forefront of offering practical and responsible solutions for all kinds of adventures.
The company's current figures show the great acceptance by consumers: they have sold more than 197.000 pairs of shoes online, working with a team of more than 50 people and achieving a turnover of 27 million euros. Tropicfeel has shown that fashion and travel accessories can be sustainable without sacrificing quality or style.
Tropicfeel has positioned itself as a benchmark in sustainable travel fashion, and its products have managed to combine versatility, durability and a strong environmental commitment. Every day, more consumers are looking for products that not only offer them practical solutions, but also have a positive impact on the planet. With its focus on sustainability and functionality, Tropicfeel offers travelers a range of products that meet both objectives, proving that it is possible to travel light and responsibly.