Prize(s):

FASHION DESIGN OF THE YEAR 2026 | WINNER 2026 FASHION DESIGN / Footwear: Fashion Shoes | FASHION DESIGN / Sustainable Fashion

Company Name:World Shoe, Inc.

Lead Designer(s) Name(s):Charles Johnson

Design Team / Other designer(s):Driven By Charles LLC

Manufacturer Name:World Shoe Limited

Client Name:The World Shoe Inc.

Photo Credit:Asia Margo

Project Location:Akosombo, Ghana

Design Status:Commercialized

Website: View

Project Description:
The Rowe is the latest innovation from a cross-continental social enterprise dedicated to the health interventions and job creation that can bring prosperity to individuals and communities. Designed by an African-born, German-American designer, the shoe reflects a unique cross-cultural perspective, blending global design sensibilities with a commitment to the continent. Named after a landmark in the founder’s hometown of Lagos, it is manufactured in a pioneering factory in Ghana using sustainable, compression-molded EVA foam. While originally briefed for healthcare environments, The Rowe transcends utility. The designer sought to break from the traditional open-backed clog, opting for a modern interpretation - classic form meets a contemporary, global perspective. The Rowe introduces "updressing" to the molded footwear category - a direct counter to the hyper-casualization of the pandemic era. Inspired by the sharp posture and technical details of Japanese performance electric vehicles, the design proves that high-performance materials can yield high-fashion results. The Rowe is a testament to the idea that sustainability, social equity, and high style can exist in perfect harmony.

Project Innovation / Specification:
The Rowe is made from a patent-pending foam that includes an anti-microbial agent and a biodegradation accelerant. In addition, in independent laboratory tests it surpassed industry standards for tear strength, flexibility, durability, cushioning, average lifespan and shape retention.

Project Sustainability Approach:
The Rowe is made of EcoPure® EVA foam which offers several significant sustainability benefits, primarily centered on addressing the long-term environmental persistence of traditional ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. By using an organic additive, EcoPure transforms traditional EVA into a material that biodegrades in landfill and marine environments, rather than persisting for centuries. In short, microbes see the foam as a digestible food source. In addition, the shoe includes an agent made from discarded oyster shells. A powder is extracted from these shells which provides laboratory tested antimicrobial properties that prevent disease and promote healing.

Local and Regional Impacts of the Project:
Traditionally, the local impact of the social enterprise that makes the shoe is made through a health intervention model which includes the distribution of shoes and hygiene education. A portion of The Rowe sales profits are contributed to the social enterprise to continue this valuable program. The regional impact of The Rowe is achieved through the 200 jobs that the company has created at its factory in Akosombo in the Volta region of Ghana.