Maize — A plant-based material designed to last

At Zèta, we do not select a material for what it appears to be, but for what it allows us to do. The maize we use is a solid plant-based alternative, well-suited for your shoes, for everyday wear.

A plant-based, yet technical material

The maize used in our models does not come from the food industry. It is sourced from non-food crops, which avoids competing with production intended for human or animal consumption.

Once harvested, it is processed using a clean method: dextrose extracted from maize is fermented, without petrochemicals, then transformed into a polymer. This polymer is then blended with a small quantity of PU to create a resistant material with a clean, consistent appearance. The result: a reliable, vegan and breathable upper.

Designed for regular use

The maize-based material contains 73% Bio PU and 27% recycled polyester. Its plant-based content reaches 50%, a threshold rarely achieved in the world of trainers.

Developed in Milan, the material is certified by several independent bodies:

PETA, Animal Free, USDA (organic certification), FSC®, ISO 14001, ISO 9001, ISO 45001.

A solid foundation for everyday trainers

Our Bêta, Alta, Velcro and Kids models are built around this material. It offers good structure, withstands repeated friction, and holds its shape over time.

It is also breathable and pleasant to wear. A material that does exactly what is asked of it, without trying to do more. That is often enough.