What do flip-flops have to do with forests? For the New Zealand brand Sandos, the connection stems from choosing FSC-certified natural rubber over conventional EVA plastic.
Sandos was founded by friends Kate Moffat and Amy Price, who grew up in the neighbouring beach towns of Whangamatā and Ōnemana. With backgrounds in women’s fashion and design, they set out to create a simple product and be transparent about the materials used. After leaving Auckland, the business took shape alongside a slower coastal lifestyle and a closer connection to nature.
Material choices were one of the first decisions the founders scrutinised, says Kate Moffat, “Most flip flops are made from EVA, a plastic foam derived from petrochemicals. It is lightweight and inexpensive, but it isn’t biodegradable. We chose natural rubber as an alternative, recognising that while it is renewable, its impact depends on how it is sourced.”
Sandos flip-flops are handcrafted in Sri Lanka from locally harvested, FSC-certified natural rubber. FSC certification verifies that the rubber comes from responsibly managed forests, with requirements in place to protect biodiversity and to respect the rights of Indigenous Peoples, workers and local communities. Moffat says this value-led approach has shaped the brand from the outset, “At Sandos, we believe beautiful things should be made with care and consciousness. For us, sustainability isn’t an afterthought. It’s why we started.”
Natural rubber provides an important source of income for millions of people worldwide. At the same time, when rubber production is poorly managed, it can contribute to deforestation, labour issues and social conflict. FSC certification helps address these risks by setting environmental, social and economic standards that apply from forest management through to finished products.
For Sandos, becoming an FSC promotional licence holder in November 2025 was a way to make this connection more visible. It allows the brand to communicate clearly about its use of FSC-certified natural rubber, to support responsible forest management, and to encourage more informed choices about the materials behind everyday products.