Nike to Phase Out Kangaroo Leather in Soccer Boots

American sportswear giant Nike has issued the following official statement regarding the use of kangaroo leather in soccer boots. adidas and PUMA have also made similar announcements over the past year.

“Nike has worked proactively on phasing out exotic skins from its product range over the past few years. In December 2009 we updated our policy to reflect further momentum on that front, phasing out snake, lizard and crocodile skin.

Nike is an industry leader in developing materials for boots that are more sustainable, including synthetic materials such as Teijin and Kangalite. Although it is used in a very small portion (less than 1 percent) of football boots, our intention is that, as we work with suppliers on new and innovative synthetic materials, we will be able to move away from the use of kangaroo leather as well.

We are concerned about the humane treatment of animals and have been informed by the Australian Government that suppliers of kangaroo leather must abide by their strict rules and regulations for the humane treatment of animals.”

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