VYN is the first repairable sneaker in the world. The brand was founded by Catherine Meuter and Stefan Mathys in 2019. Their goal is to encourage the customer to re-evaluate expenditure and move away from a disposable mind-set, to one where they take care of sneakers, enjoying them for longer. Together they have designed over 40 collections for various brands in Italy, UK, and Norway. VYN came to life over a discussion about the sneaker industry being one of the most polluting in the fashion industry. Production costs are increasing, and the consumer is being asked to pay more, accept lower quality and less longevity. VYN is the footwear industry’s answer to creating a sneaker that is made to last a lifetime.With the combined expertise of over 15 years in the footwear industry as designers and developers of world leading footwear brands, Stefan and Catherine wanted to answer a burning question: ‘how do you create a sneaker that is made to last?’ They listened to friends, relatives and experts and based on those insights they started to explore solutions to add longevity to shoes. Besides choosing the right components, materials and adapting the construction, their focus became a repair-solution for the sole unit. VYN sneakers are made to be worn, cared for, and can be repaired by the owner. In this episode of the MenswearStyle Podcast we interview Co-Founder Stefan Mathys to find out about his fashion background and how the repairable sneaker brand idea was born. Fed up with the season approach the footwear industry traditionally follows, Stefan wanted to create a timeless sustainable sneaker with replaceable pieces. Our host Peter Brooker and Stefan also discuss design challenges, product development, research trips and manufacturing. Whilst we have your attention, be sure to sign up to our daily MenswearStyle newsletter here. We promise to only send you the good stuff.Support the showOur new store shop.menswear.style is now live!