All of us have stories and reasons for why we do what we do.

As the founder of an international youth humanitarian organization, Christal Earle had been working and learning from a local community of garbage dump workers since 2005 on the north coast of Dominican Republic.

In early 2017 she was struck with the idea: Why not use tires for soles on beautiful hand made shoes - and create a way to help the most vulnerable people in the process?

Brave Soles was born out of her love for people, planet and great shoes.

The ability to ask a different question has led the company on a journey that continues to expand and grow in the most glorious, satisfying ways. 

While they strive to use completely upcycled products, such as remnants of furniture makers and airplane seats, some of their items are not yet available this way. The team chooses high-quality leather from the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Argentina and they're always exploring opportunities to use vegetable dyed leather, vegan leather and other options.

Brave Soles work with local artisans across the North Coast of the Dominican Republic to supply all of our items, including the shoes and the bags they’re delivered in. 

Their business relationships are built on mutual trust and transparency. They have weekly contact with all our suppliers and value the open lines of communication and connection.

And they ensure all of their employees and suppliers are employed ethically: from wages, to vacation time to health care and working conditions.