They're not made from hemp, they don't have solar panels built into the back and they're not designed for easy recycling. No Sweat's All Star-beating trainers are, however, made from entirely vegan materials - no sad cows here - and put together by a factory in Indonesia with an independent trade union, decent working conditions and a comparatively good wage. Unlike most trainer makers, No Sweat happily point you to the exact factory so you can brain up on it for yourself. These vegan sneakers have been on sale for a while in the States but today was the first time I've seen them here - you can get snap a pair up for £30 from Ethical Wares.
Good to see you can finally get them over here - they are ace! (I especially like the pink ones...)
I've had a pair of these for a few months. Best shoes I've had. Got them from www.fairdealtrading.com/. Cheaper too.