Corn — A plant-based material designed to last

At Zèta, we do not choose a material for how it looks, but for what it delivers. The corn we use is a solid, plant-based alternative suited for your everyday footwear.

A plant-based yet technical material

The corn used in our models does not come from the agri-food industry. It comes from non-food crops, avoiding competition with crops grown for human or animal consumption.

Once harvested, it is processed using a clean method: the dextrose extracted from the corn is fermented without petrochemicals, then transformed into a polymer. This polymer is then blended with a small amount of PU to create a durable material with a clean, smooth finish. Result: a reliable, vegan and breathable upper.

Designed for regular wear

The corn-based material contains 73% Bio-based PU and 27% recycled polyester. Its plant-based content reaches 50%, a threshold rarely crossed in the sneaker world.

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

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 support, withstands repeated friction, and keeps its shape over time.

It is also breathable and comfortable to wear. A material that does exactly what is asked of it, without overdoing it. It is often all you need.