In episode 96 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I speak with Bernardo Carreira, CEO of 8000 Kicks, on creating a new category of functional sustainable footwear using cannabis hemp fibers.
Bernardo moved back to Portugal in 2017 to start a new project, but he didn’t know exactly what it would be. One night, after a splendid night with his friends, someone came up with the idea of making a shoe for smoking.
Bernardo’s initial thought was this is probably an awful idea, or maybe not.
Bernardo decided to give it a shot since he had seen some bags and wallets made of cannabis fibers before.
He asked the most unlikely person for help: Otilia, his grandmother, with over 50 years’ experience in textiles.
Together, they spent over 1 year actively working with suppliers from around the world until what is now the World’s 1st waterproof hemp shoe, a whole new category into functional sustainable footwear.

Hemp is the “sober cousin” of marijuana. It has a minimal amount of psychoactive components, and for that reason it is legal everywhere in the world.
Features of the sneakers made from cannabis hemp fibers
- Made of Super Strong Cannabis Hemp Fibers
- Ecological Soles Made of Algal Blooms
- The World’s First Natural Hemp Insoles
- Breathable Waterproof Sneakers
- 100% Vegan and Eco-friendly Shoes
- Designed for Those With an Active Lifestyle
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Grant is the founder of Causeartist, one of the most influential impact business platforms in the world. Since 2013, Causeartist has been read in over 150 countries. Grant has personally interviewed 700+ impact entrepreneurs from around the world, highlighting innovations in ethical fashion, climate change, ethical technology, impact investing, and sustainable travel.