Genix Nappa is our innovative new material designed to tackle leather waste. Reclaimed leather offcuts destined for landfill are re-engineered into a soft but durable material, which we’ve used to construct our 3 Original silhouettes; the 1460 boot, 1461 shoe and 2976 Chelsea boot. It’s one of the many steps we’re taking to be a more responsible bootmaker.
THE
GENIX NAPPA
COLLECTION
RECLAIMED LEATHER.
REMADE TO LAST.
MATERIAL
INNOVATION
Genix Nappa is a lightweight, subtly textured material that’s supple straight from the box. Through the re-engineering process of leather waste, Genix Nappa transforms into a durable and versatile material that represents some of the progress we’re making towards 100% of our footwear being made from sustainable materials by 2040.
HOW IT’S MADE
WASTE TO GENIX NAPPA IN 5 STEPS
RECLAIMING LEATHER
Distinctively blue leather offcuts from the ‘wet-blue’ tanning process destined for landfill are collected.
BREAKING DOWN OFFCUTS
Each leather piece is carefully separated into individual soft fibres through a precision milling process.
FIBRE WEB CREATION
The individual fibres are gently placed under heat and pressure to form sheets of a fibre web.
HYDROENTANGLEMENT
Two layers of the fibre web and a textile core are woven together with a high-powered water process.
THE TOP COAT
A top layer of water-based PU is added for a durable finish, with additional texture and colour.
THE 1460 BOOT
THE 1460 BOOT
Our classic 8-eye boot. For over 60 years it’s stood the test of time to become a revered British design.
THE 1461 SHOE
THE 1461 SHOE
Our second design was the versatile 3-eye shoe. The 1461 continues to be embraced and is recontextualised with every outfit.
THE 2976 BOOT
THE 2976 BOOT
Dr. Martens Original Chelsea boot. A hard-hitting, slip-on construction. Given a different life with each new generation.
GENIX NAPPA: FAQS
How is this reclaimed leather different to typical DM's leather?
We've reengineered leather offcuts to create Genix Nappa. Our material innovation reduces waste without compromising on our renowned durability.
Does this reclaimed leather last as long?
We have high durability standards, which we won't compromise on. Genix Nappa has been through rigorous DM's testing and it meets DM's standards, including durability.
Is Genix Nappa suitable for vegans?
No, this reclaimed leather is created using offcuts from the leather tanning process. As part of our sustainability strategy, we're taking a balanced approach of sourcing more sustainable leathers and innovative alternatives to leather.
Is this easier to break in?
The material is softer than some other footwear materials so you may find it has less of a 'break in' period than our black smooth.
Why have you made Genix Nappa?
We're taking steps to be a more responsible bootmaker. The use of leather offcuts from the leather tanning process reduces waste by reclaiming materials destined for landfill, whilst not compromising on the durability of DM's footwear that our wearers expect.
You are still using leather though?
Genix Nappa products are a step towards our sustainability strategy and our future, but we understand there is more progress to be made. We're taking a balanced approach of sourcing more sustainable leathers and innovative alternatives to leather.
How are DM's trying to be a more sustainable company?
We have set a target to become a Net-Zero business by 2040, and commitments to help us get there, including ‘100% of footwear made from sustainable materials by 2040’. Using materials like Genix Nappa is a step towards these targets and commitments. More information can be found here
What is wet blue leather?
Our wet blue leather comes from a common tanning process, when we treat animal hides to transform them into a durable base material called "wet blue leather". It's a relatively early step in the process – the blue hides need to undergo further treatments like dyeing and softening before becoming the quality leather you see on our boots. Some trimming of the cuts is required at this stage, producing some inevitable waste which is used as the foundation of Genix Nappa reclaimed leather.
BEING RESPONSIBLE BOOTMAKERS
We have a duty to maximise the longevity of our footwear while considering the impact we have on people and the planet, which we take very seriously.
FIND OUT WHAT WE’RE MADE OF
Smooth, soft, or shiny. Whatever your statement, there’s a durable DM’s leather to suit every wear. Check out our leather guide to learn more.
MAKE THEM LAST EVEN LONGER
Well-worn or box-fresh. Every pair needs some care from time to time. Find out how to make sure your boots and shoes can keep pace with wherever life takes you.