Ecco Launches BIOM 720 Trainer Made From Leather Waste Fibre

Ecco has released the limited edition BIOM 720. It is a performance trainer built with protein based textile fibre.The Ecco BIOM 720 trainer represents a significant milestone in footwear innovation, establishing a new benchmark for sustainability through its unique material composition. Developed over a dedicated five-year period in partnership with Spinnova, this shoe utilizes a groundbreaking textile fiber derived from leather production waste. This creative process effectively transforms leather by-products, which are typically discarded, burned, or composted—into durable, high-performance materials.

Following its official launch on April 29, the trainer has become available to consumers through Ecco’s retail stores and official websites in the UK and Germany. The project has garnered substantial praise from sustainability experts who recognize its potential to significantly reduce waste within the industry. By repurposing raw materials that were once considered refuse, Ecco and Spinnova have demonstrated a sophisticated approach to circular fashion and responsible manufacturing.

Material Innovation and Construction

The upper uses 60 percent protein based fibre. This fibre comes from post industrial leather offcuts. In addition, it blends with 40 percent GRS certified recycled polyester.Ecco and Spinnova produce the fibres using patented mechanical refining. They do not use chemical dissolving. Instead, they process wet blue shavings from tannery production. These shavings turn into continuous textile filaments.The material shows strong performance characteristics. For example, it offers tensile strength similar to wool. It also delivers twice the elongation of cotton. Therefore, it provides both durability and flexibility. Moreover, this innovative build distinguishes the Ecco BIOM 720 trainer from traditional performance footwear.

Unlike traditional recycling methods, this approach avoids downcycling. Instead, it preserves the protein structure of the leather fibre. As a result, it supports high quality textile production with less waste.

Design and Performance Features

The BIOM 720 comes in grey colorways for both men and women. It includes textile laces for a secure fit. In addition, it features a leather and textile lining for comfort.The trainer uses BIOM NATURAL MOTION technology. This system supports natural foot movement. Consequently, it improves comfort during performance and daily wear. As a result, athletes looking for advanced comfort are turning to the Ecco BIOM 720 trainer.

Collaboration Timeline and Circular Vision

Ecco and Spinnova started their partnership in 2020. They focused on using leather by-products as textile fibres.Over time, this project moved from research into real product development. Now, it has reached commercial application with the BIOM 720.

Spinnova CEO Janne Poranen called the launch a key milestone. He highlighted five years of development between both companies. In addition, he emphasized the successful transformation of waste into high quality fibre.Ecco CEO Thomas Gøgsig also highlighted the collaboration. He explained that the partnership helps unlock value from existing materials. Therefore, it pushes innovation in footwear production.

Market Positioning and Availability

The BIOM 720 supports circular material innovation in footwear. It uses leather waste instead of discarding it. As a result, it reduces environmental impact in production.The shoe delivers performance while supporting sustainable design principles. It targets consumers who value innovation and responsible materials.The BIOM 720 is available exclusively in the UK and Germany. Ecco is using this limited release to test market response. Overall, the Ecco BIOM 720 trainer could mark a turning point for eco-friendly athletic shoes.