FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Of course you're gonna have questions. Start finding answers below. Did we miss anything? Just send a message to noochie@nooch.earth
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Why Nooch?
We know that feeling of trying to do the right thing but getting stuck in the greenwashing maze; Of course you don’t want shoes made out of animal skin but now you have entered the world of a hundred different types of alternatives.
What to choose? Recycled plastic or bio-plastics? Or maybe you feel it is most urgent to support a brand that makes sure that the factory employees are treated fairly?
Impossible trade offs in our opinion. Especially when it is no longer necessary to choose just one of those values you hold so high.
Nooch combines all things that matter: To be kind to all animals, create fair products without human or non human suffering and produce products that are in balance with the planet we inhibit.
No compromises.
Why does Nooch produce shoes in community-activated cycles?
At Nooch, we believe in reshaping the footwear industry by embracing sustainable production practices.
Instead of mass-producing shoes in bulk, we activate production based on community demand, which allows us to avoid the overproduction that leads to waste.
Our limited production cycles occur twice a year, with each cycle driven by the needs of the community.
With production based on need, not greed, we can ensure that every pair of shoes is crafted with intention and care.
The beauty of community-activated production is that it aligns perfectly with our commitment to reducing waste, empowering fair labor practices, and maintaining sustainable materials throughout our process.
When you plan your purchase with us, you’re not only investing in footwear that’s designed to last, but you’re also contributing to a more thoughtful and conscious way of manufacturing.
Each shoe is crafted with the knowledge that it’s being made with care, not in excess. This helps reduce both the strain on resources and the environmental impact of the fashion industry, all while supporting ethical labor and craftsmanship.
Together we are revolutionizing the way shoes are designed, made, and worn.
Why are lacetips important?
There are a lot of brands out there that say that they make biodegradable products. But do a deep dive and unfortunately you will find that you are being greenwashed; because even if a t-shirt is made out of a compostable fabric they are often stitched together with polyester threads or contain labels made out of nylon. Both materials that will leave a microplastics trail when broken down. Microplastics end up in everything. From the oceans and soil to the inside of our bodies. Wreaking havoc on our our collective well-being. Unacceptable. That is why we made absolutely sure that our products contain zero plastics. The whole enchilada. Even down to our lacetips.
What does 'Zero Waste' even mean?
Zero Waste has a lot of definitions; Some use it to describe a closed loop plastic recycling system, others interpret it as doing groceries using their own packaging in specialized supermarkets.
We use it to describe our closed cycle with Mother Nature. In nature there is no such thing as waste. When one thing ceases to exist another is created. That is why we don't use plastics or non-biodegradable materials in our products. All things Nooch are meant to return to the Earth.
As it should be.
What makes Nooch different from other sustainable footwear brands?
Nooch stands out from the crowd of sustainable footwear brands because we are truly committed to eliminating the plastic and petrochemical products that dominate the industry.
While many brands claim to be eco-friendly, the reality is that 99.9% of them still rely heavily on plastics, synthetic materials, and petroleum-based products. Nooch takes a different approach by eliminating these substances completely, from the soles of our shoes to the adhesives that hold them together.
Our commitment to holistic sustainability goes beyond using renewable materials; it’s embedded in every step of our business. For example, we follow community-activated production cycles, producing only what is needed based on need, not greed. This practice prevents overproduction and ensures that we aren't creating unnecessary waste that ends up in landfills.
We also prioritize high-performance, sustainably sourced materials such as organic cotton, plant-based leathers, and recycled textiles. These materials avoid the toxic chemicals often found in "eco-friendly" products and make sure that our shoes are not only good for the planet but also for the people who wear them.
Another distinguishing factor is our focus on ethical production practices. Unlike brands that might cut corners by using cheap labor in countries with poor working conditions, Nooch ensures that our shoes are made by artisans who are fairly compensated and work in environments that respect their rights. This commitment to fair labor practices means that we are building a stronger, more human-centered connection with our products, fostering a sense of purpose in the production process and empowering the people who make our shoes.
In short, Nooch isn’t just about being a “sustainable” brand—we are redefining what sustainability means by ensuring that every step of our production process is as clean, ethical, and environmentally friendly as possible.
We’ve made it our mission to go beyond the greenwashing tactics that many brands rely on and truly commit to materials and practices that align with our values of holistic sustainability, ethical production, and a circular economy.
Can I compost the shoes myself?
Yes, you can safely compost your old Noochies in your garden!
Our shoes are designed with biodegradable materials and natural adhesives, so they won’t harm the environment when they decompose.
While they are not considered "compostable" according to EU standards (which typically require materials to decompose within a certain timeframe), they will break down naturally in the right conditions. This process may take longer—similar to how a tree takes time to decompose—but rest assured, Nooch shoes will safely biodegrade without leaving harmful residues behind.
If you don’t want to compost them yourself, you can also send your old Noochies back to us, and we’ll take care of composting them responsibly. This helps us replenish the soil where necessary, contributing to a more sustainable, circular economy.
And don’t worry, Noochies will not start decomposing while you are wearing them ;)
Where are Nooch shoes made?
All nooch sneakers are ethically produced in Portugal; For us that means a safe working environment and fair wages. Keeping it local helps to ensure transparent communication and regular visits to the factory. EU labour standards are high and strictly controlled which helps us guarantee that your shoes are made in an ethical manner under good working conditions. Add the fact that nooch sneakers don’t have to be shipped half way around the world to our distribution centre also helps lower CO2 emissions and it's common sense really….
Why doesn’t Nooch use traditional synthetic glue?
At Nooch, we’ve made a conscious decision to avoid petroleum-based adhesives, which are commonly used in traditional shoe production. Synthetic glues almost always contain harmful chemicals and contribute to the use of fossil fuels, making them non-compatible with our commitment to sustainability.
Instead, we use natural, water soluble, plant-based adhesives in our production process. These alternatives not only eliminate the use of toxic chemicals but also reduce our carbon footprint by relying on renewable resources. By choosing non-toxic, biodegradable glues, we are able to create shoes that are safer for both the environment and the people who wear them.
By opting for adhesives made from natural substances, we contribute to better health, cleaner air, water, and soil.
Moreover, by rejecting petroleum-based products, we avoid contributing to the ongoing dependency on fossil fuels. This small yet significant choice underscores our broader mission to create footwear that doesn’t just look good but is good for the planet. Every step of the production process at Nooch is designed to minimize harm, from the materials we use to the adhesives that bind them together, ensuring that our shoes are as sustainable as possible in every sense.
What is the estimated delivery time for nooch products?
Nooch operates on a biannual, community-activated production cycle, producing shoes twice a year with delivery moments in spring and autumn. Instead of overproducing, we craft each pair specifically for our community, ensuring every shoe is made with purpose.
By planning your purchase within these cycles, you join a movement against fast fashion's wasteful make-to-stock model, supporting sustainability and thoughtful craftsmanship. Together, we’re building a better, more eco-friendly footwear industry.
Where are you located? Do you have any stores?
We have an international team that is located from The UK to Curacao but nooch HQ is based in Arnhem, The Netherlands. We do not have a physical store,... yet.
What size sneakers should I order?
Finding your perfect fit is easy with our sizing tool; Simply follow the steps to get a precise recommendation based on your measurements.
Prefer to measure your feet by hand? No problem! Use a piece of paper, a pencil, and a ruler to measure the length of your foot from heel to toe. Then, refer to our size chart to find the size that’s right for you.
If your feet are playing the indecisive card and you're between sizes, go for the larger one. Still scratching your head? Shoot us an email, we're here to help.
Remember, smart sizing isn't just about comfort, it's about being mindful of our resources. So, let's ditch the habit of ordering multiple sizes only to return the misfits. It's a small act with big consequences when you think about the scale of it. So, give it some thought, make a smart choice, and together, we can cut down on waste and CO2 emissions.
What about the bigfoot?
People are getting taller and taller, their feet growing bigger and bigger. Our current size range goes up to size Eur 46 but we are working hard on getting you those bigger sneakers to fill.
It would really help to know how many people are looking for large so do let us know what shoesize you would like us to add to the range. Please send us an email at noochie@nooch.earth
Muchas gracias, amigo!
Are the insoles removable?
Yes, noochies are strobel lasted and the insoles are removable. You can easily insert your own (orthopaedic) insole should you want to.
How do I clean my sneakers? Are they machine washable?
Cleaning your Noochies depends on the material:
- Mirum version: Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth. The naturally water-resistant upper material makes dirt and stains easy to remove—no treatments or conditioning needed! If your Noochies get wet, just let them air dry.
- Hemp version: The hemp fabric is untreated and free from chemical finishes, which means it’s more delicate. For white versions especially, we recommend spot-cleaning with a damp cloth and gentle soap. Avoid scrubbing, as it may damage the fabric or cause discoloration.
Please don’t put your Noochies in the washing machine or dryer, as this could compromise the materials.
How can I repair my Noochies?
In case your noochies need repairing please get in touch. We can help you find the right solution; This could be in the form of helping you find the shoemaker that specialises in sneaker repair or if you prefer DIY solutions we could get you the correct materials to fix your sneakers without compromising on their biodegradability.*
*Why is this so important to us? We hope to help change perception. We know it can be an easy fix to chuck out what’s broken and buy it new for cheap. But this is a big part of the problems with waste and resource depletion we are facing globally. Let’s rediscover the joy of truly caring for your goods. So let us help you to take care of your noochies to stretch their life cycle so when it is time to say goodbye to them you can do so with a clean conscience.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping costs are calculated at checkout and varies by country. We cannot ship to PO boxes.
How do I track my order?
We will keep you in the loop about your order. Once it ships, you'll receive a tracking number.
It can take up to a day to activate your tracking number. If it's been more than 48 hours and your tracking number still isn't working, send us an email and we'll help get you a status update!
How do I exchange or return my sneakers?
It’s important to us that you fall in love with your noochies but should you have ordered the wrong size or have any other issue, you can always exchange or return your order.
Please make sure that:
- Your items are unworn, undamaged, in re-sellable condition (i.e. no marks on the canvas or wear on soles), and in their original packaging.
- Your return request is submitted within 30 days of receiving your original order.
You can find our full return policy here.
Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.
Once our warehouse has received your return, please allow up to 2 weeks for a refund or store credit to be issued. If it has been longer than two weeks, please contact us.
Where do we get our protein?
Favourite sources are cashews, chickpeas and (heil) seitan. But we also don’t mind the odd vegan burger. But let’s all please keep in mind that plants have protein.
What about packaging?
Imagine the following scenario; You made sure to do your research and bought a fully biodegradable product. You even clicked the button to ensure that shipping is CO2 compensated... ...only to find that it is wrapped in two layers of bubble wrap and packed in an extra box for transport. Does anybody else find that strange? We do.
That is why Nooch items are delivered to you in minimalistic, recycled cardboard and plastic free packaging.