Mizuno to discontinue the use of kangaroo hide in their products

Mizuno Joins Adidas and Asics in Phasing Out Kangaroo Leather

In a significant move for animal welfare and ethical business practices, athleticwear brand Mizuno has announced its decision to phase out kangaroo leather from its products. This decision follows pressure from the Center for a Humane Economy, who have highlighted Mizuno's sourcing practices as being out of alignment with their animal welfare and sustainability policies.

According to Jennifer Skiff, director of international programs for the Center for a Humane Economy, Mizuno offered 28 models of kangaroo-leather shoes, making it the top user of kangaroo skin in the global athletic footwear market. Skiff had been asking Mizuno President Akito Mizuno to end the use of kangaroo leather, and her efforts have finally yielded results.

The timeline for Mizuno's phase-out of kangaroo leather has not been finalized, but the announcement is being hailed as a victory. Skiff considers it a significant step towards protecting animals and promoting ethical business practices.

Mizuno recognizes the concerns regarding kangaroo leather, but values the material for its lightness, strength, and flexibility. However, the company also aims to achieve sustainable procurement in harmony with society, and this decision reflects their commitment to environmental considerations.

The Kangaroo Protection Act, a legislative initiative aimed at protecting kangaroos from commercial exploitation, could further impact the use of kangaroo skin in the U.S. fashion industry. The bill, which was introduced in March in the U.S. Senate, targets the use of kangaroo leather and other kangaroo parts. If enacted, it would ban commercial imports, sales, and manufacturing of kangaroo products in the U.S.

While Mizuno has made this commitment for its products in the U.S., multiple fashion companies in the U.S. continue to use kangaroo skin, including Athleta, L.L. Bean, and Lucchese. The future of kangaroo leather in the fashion industry remains to be seen, but Mizuno's decision is a promising step towards more humane and sustainable practices.

Adidas and Asics have already announced they will cease using kangaroo leather by the end of this year, joining Mizuno in this commitment. As more fashion companies consider the ethical implications of their sourcing practices, the future of kangaroo leather in the fashion industry may be on the decline.