What is corn leather? The innovative vegan material

Corn: The New Frontier of Fabrics

Although corn leather is more recent than hemp fabrics, it has found extensive uses across different fields. Indeed, the range of possibilities that this cereal offers is incredibly diverse, from human and animal consumption to construction and vegan fashion. Originally from Central America, corn spread to Europe in the following centuries. This was due to its high yield, short cultivation cycle, and ability to grow in different climates.

Today, the use of corn is very versatile, and among its various applications, corn as a plant-based fabric is emerging as a sustainable and innovative choice in the fashion and textile industry, especially in the production of vegan shoes.

Corn Fiber

Corn fibers are extracted from the polymerization of lactic acid, obtained from the fermentation of corn starch. This results in a fabric that falls under the category of corn leather,  as discussed previously. As with other plant-based leathers, it is necessary to blend the corn component with synthetic elements to integrate the necessary properties for vegan shoes. For example, combining a corn fiber fabric with a certain percentage of nylon produces a much more durable garment. On the other hand, pairing it with viscose creates a more breathable garment. Conversely, a garment with viscose will be less durable, and one with nylon less breathable. If it were only made of corn, 100%, it would not be as durable or as breathable. This is why "plant-based leather" needs a synthetic component to overcome certain limitations. However, once the corn fiber is extracted, it can be used for a variety of purposes. Through specific processing, it can even be used to create thermal insulation panels for construction, as corn fiber itself is an excellent insulator. Additionally, the resulting fabric guarantees the same characteristics and comfort typical of other fibers such as wool, silk, or cotton. It's worth reiterating that, unlike these, corn does not involve the use of animals, making it entirely cruelty-free and vegan. Moreover, corn leather also share some typical properties of synthetic fibers, such as lower costs and ease of care and washing compared to traditional leather. Therefore, fabrics made with this vegetable fiber are less prone to staining, and when it happens, they clean easily. Add to this their resistance to UV rays and reduced flammability. In short, when combined with the right components, corn vegetable fiber proves to be an excellent material in terms of softness, elasticity, and durability. Ideal for use in vegan shoes.

Corn in a Shoe

Thanks to its versatility, corn leather offers a wide range of design possibilities, including vegan footwear. Corn fabrics allow the creation of elegant and contemporary shoes that are at the same time lightweight and breathable. This helps to keep feet cool and dry, making these shoes ideal for daily use. They can also be used to make comfortable vegan sneakers, as corn-leather is flexible, allowing for ergonomic footwear without sacrificing quality. In general, the strength of corn fiber ensures the product's longevity, providing an excellent alternative to traditional shoes.  Therefore, corn-based shoes are more than a fashion accessory; they represent a step toward a sustainable future. The result is a material that is very soft, elastic, durable, and completely hypoallergenic.