cork

Cork fabric is made by harvesting the bark of the cork oak tree, also known as Quercus suber. But there is something special about this process. 

The cork tree is actually the only tree in the whole world that doesn't die when you take away its bark. So, no trees are cut down to produce cork leather. And the cork tree is able to regenerate itself. How awesome! 

But that's not all. Once the tree is 25 years old, it is possible to harvest the cork every 9 to 12 years without any lasting damage. As this tree can live for more than 200 years, the cork can be harvested at least 16 times for different uses.

Did you know that Portugal is the world leader in cork production? More specifically, half of the world's cork is produced here. This might not be as surprising as it is a country with the largest share of cork oak trees. 

Also, no machines are necessary for the process of harvesting cork. It can be actually done with a simple ax. 

For the next six months, after the harvest, the cork is left to dry. Then, it is boiled, flattened and shaped into the material it is meant to be. Usually, it is also backed with other fabrics such as cotton, polyester or polyurethane for extra support. 

Yes, cork is a sustainable material – for multiple reasons.

As already mentioned, the cork is harvested without cutting down the tree or any other lasting damage. The process is usually done with an ax as opposed to a machine. So, the process does not pollute the air. 

If you're not yet impressed by the cork fabric, this might do it for you. Cork trees continue capturing CO₂ after the bark is harvested. After all, they are not cut down. But the tree captures even more CO₂ than usual while the bark is regenerating!

Some sources claim that cork leather should be avoided as cork is endangered. But this is not true at all.

What is true is that cork production does result in some wastewater. Yet, it can be safely returned back to the environment because cork is not treated with toxic chemicals. Which is the case for animal leather that is treated with chromium or cyanide.

Also, when there is any leftover cork, it can be used by other industries or returned to the environment. Yes, that's right. Cork is also biodegradable and compostable. Of course, if cork is mixed with other materials for extra support, it has an impact on its biodegradability. 

And there's one more thing we need to mention. It is possible to harvest cork in a way that helps biodiversity to be preserved. But, sometimes cork forests are not properly managed. And this can pose a threat to biodiversity preservation.

Cork fabric is soft, smooth, breathable, resilient and lightweight. Actually, it weighs only 0.16 grams/cm³. 

It is also hypoallergenic, stain- and scratch-resistant. 

It repels water because of a wax-like substance, suberin, that's inside of cork. And as half of its volume is air, cork can also float. But don't worry. Cork fabric is washable. You can clean it with a bit of water and mild soap. Easy!

But is cork fabric also durable? The answer is yes. Cork is very strong, durable and long-lasting.

So, it seems that cork fabric – because of its softness and lightness – is perfect for warm weather. And thanks to how resistant and durable it is, it will be perfect for winter months too.

Many things can be made with cork – from cork flooring, insulation, cork stoppers in wine bottles, and yoga accessories like mats or blocks. But of course you will also find wallets, bags and shoes made out of cork.

Would you like to give this impressive and underrated material a chance? Then, check out our bags and shoes for women or men's shoes.