How Soy is Changing Fashion
The fashion industry is undergoing a sustainability revolution, and soy-based textiles are taking charge. As consumers and designers seek eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fabrics, soy is emerging as a game-changing material. Derived from soybean processing byproducts, soy fabric is soft, breathable, and biodegradable, offering a stylish solution that benefits both people and the planet. With South Dakota’s rich soybean industry, the state is playing a key role in bringing this innovative textile to the forefront of sustainable fashion.
Soy Textiles
Soy fabric—often referred to as “vegetable cashmere”—is made by extracting soy proteins from soybean hulls and spinning them into fibers. This process repurposes agricultural waste, reducing reliance on petroleum-based synthetic fabrics and making soy textiles an environmentally responsible choice. Not only is soy fabric renewable and biodegradable, but it also boasts impressive qualities that rival luxury materials.
One of soy fabric’s standout features is its natural skin-nourishing properties. Packed with amino acids, it helps keep skin healthy while offering unmatched softness and comfort. It’s also UV-resistant, anti-bacterial, and moisture-wicking, making it a top choice for athletic and everyday wear. In fact, the athleisure brand KD New York uses soy-based cashmere to create workout clothing for yoga, dance, barre, and ballet.
Soy Meets Performance with Skechers
Innovation in fashion isn’t limited to clothing—footwear brands are also embracing high-performance, eco-friendly materials. Since 2020, Skechers has partnered with Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. to integrate Goodyear’s advanced rubber technology into their outsoles. These Goodyear Performance Outsoles enhance grip, stability, and durability, making Skechers shoes perfect for everything from city streets to rugged trails.
Originally introduced in running and walking shoes, Goodyear-enhanced outsoles are now featured in Skechers’ athletic, lifestyle, trail, and work footwear collections. Whether you're walking, running, or working on your feet all day, these shoes offer long-lasting traction and comfort.
Not only are these shoes sustainable, but they are also close to home here in South Dakota! Head to your local footwear store or a Skechers outlet store!
A Fashion Revolution Rooted in Sustainability
The rise of soy-based textiles marks an exciting shift toward sustainable, innovative fashion. As South Dakota continues to lead in soybean production, the possibilities for soy in clothing, footwear, and beyond are endless. Whether it’s in a cozy sweater, performance wear, or a durable shoe, soy is proving that the future of fashion is not just stylish—it’s smart, sustainable, and built to last.
Soy being used in Skechers is only one of the 1,000+ uses of soy! Think you know more? Take our quiz to see how many soy uses you REALLY know!
