At Cougar Shoes we adhere to a strong code of conduct principles and are on the path to smart design choices with the environment in mind. Learn more about our efforts.

Women working along assembly line in shoe manufacturing plant.

Our Ethics

Cougar Shoes is an active member of the world’s leading audit organization SEDEX. Their mission is to supply data-driven insights, tools and services to help organizations improve governance. Sedex works with brands to improve the social performance of their supply chain and has a very clear and consistent approach that highlights best practices. As a SEDEX member we adhere to a strong code of conduct following principles including things like; fair remuneration, no discrimination, decent working hours, occupational health & safety and no child labour.

Sedex audits provide an understanding of standards applied to labour, health and safety, environmental performance, and ethics within Cougar operations at our supplier sites. We choose our manufacturing factory partners very carefully and opt to only work with those who maintain an approved SMETA (Sedex) social compliance audit status.

For more information: https://www.sedex.com/about/

 

Our Footprint

At Cougar, we believe how we innovate and make design choices is an ongoing journey and we strive to always do our best. We’re on the path to smart design choices with the environment in mind; choices that create less waste and use sustainable recycled materials. Here are our latest initiatives:

We’ve eliminated all plastic and paper inner packaging. All new women’s styles now come individually wrapped in reusable bags, made from recycled material or wrapped with recycled tissue that is biodegradable.

Many of our new boot styles now use PrimaLoft® insulation. Originally designed for the US military, PrimaLoft® insulation is a permanently water-resistant material that’s made from 100% post-consumer recycled material. It keeps you warmer and drier, even when wet, and has a thermal efficiency comparable to goose down.

Faux fur feels fresh and the right decision. All Cougar Fall/Winter styles are designed using faux fur only.

Plus, our new Made in Spain leather sandals are handmade with nappa and hand-burnished leather, a Spanish staple. This special burnished leather is crafted with vegetable tanning, a time-honoured, artisanal process that uses plant-based tannins to bring out distinct characteristics for a one-of-a-kind look. By vegetable tanning we are embracing tradition, sustainability and a closer connection to nature, with a nearly zero environmental impact.

 

 

Updated February 20, 2024