The Shoe That Grows: Revolutionizing Footwear for Kids

Expanding Potential: The Shoe That Grows

In a world where over 1.5 billion people are vulnerable to soil-transmitted diseases due to lack of footwear, one nonprofit organisation has developed a revolutionary solution: The Shoe That Grows. This innovative footwear, designed by Because International, expands up to five sizes, ensuring that children in impoverished communities have durable shoes that grow with them.

Inspiration and innovation

The story of The Shoe That Grows began with Kenton Lee, the founder of Because International, during his time at a Kenyan orphanage. He noticed children wearing shoes too small for their feet, a common issue given the rapid growth rates of children and the high cost of regularly replacing shoes. This observation sparked the idea for a shoe that could adjust and expand its size. Despite initial scepticism and rejection from major shoe companies, Lee and his team pursued the development of The Shoe That Grows, ultimately launching a successful product in 2015 that now helps children across the globe.

Since its inception, Because International has successfully distributed over 400,000 pairs of The Shoe That Grows across more than 100 countries.

Design Features 

The Shoe That Grows is ingeniously designed. It adjusts in seven places to expand five sizes: heel strap, top strap, four side straps, and the hook-and-loop toe piece, ensuring a comfortable fit for a wide range of foot sizes. It is made with durable materials, including a compressed rubber sole and antibacterial synthetic upper. This practical design makes it an ideal solution for children in impoverished regions, who are often the most vulnerable to diseases from unprotected feet.​

Manufactured in Mombasa, Kenya, The Shoe That Grows provides essential footwear to those in need and supports local economies by creating jobs. Its design includes features like a single injection-moulded sole in the latest iteration, simplifying production and reducing costs.

Impact and Achievements

Since its inception, Because International has successfully distributed over 400,000 pairs of The Shoe That Grows across more than 100 countries. The initiative prevents foot diseases and supports children's education by reducing absenteeism caused by illness and injury. 

Sustainable Solutions and Community Engagement 

The impact of Because International extends beyond footwear. Through the Because Accelerator program, the organisation leverages its experience to assist other entrepreneurs in developing innovative products to alleviate poverty. The accelerator provides training, mentorship, and funding, preparing participants to bring their solutions to market effectively and sustainably.​ 

Moreover, because International operates on a sustainable financial model that includes a 'buy one, give one' scheme, consumers can participate directly in The Shoe That Grows distribution. The organisation also offers opportunities for donations and involvement through service trips, emphasising community engagement and long-term impact.​

The Shoe That Grows exemplifies how targeted, thoughtful innovations can have a profound impact. By addressing a common but critical need, Because International have shown that even simple ideas can improve lives on a large scale when executed well.