PHILOSOPHY

Neo Africa are South African accessory designers and artisans, Italian trained and based in Durban on the coast of KwaZulu-Natal.

Neo Africa cherish the magic of South Africa and are committed to making a positive social impact. By working creatively and collaboratively, we aim to grow our business for the benefit of our suppliers, their staff, and the families we represent.

Neo Africa are dedicated to supporting the 150 year old legacy of artisanal skills in South Africa.

Fair employment is a social justice. We only collaborate with suppliers where we personally know the staff.

As creative entrepreneurs  we choose to do things the right way for the people our ranges support and for you, our customers. By choosing to buy from us, you support families and breadwinners, making a positive impact and a change for good. View our full collection here.

The Value of Metal Shank Boards in Footwear

Understanding the role of a shank board is key to appreciating the craftsmanship behind high-quality footwear. Here’s why we use them in shoes with heels over 150mm:

Arch Support: Shanks provide excellent support to the arch of the foot, which helps in maintaining proper foot alignment and reduces strain on the arch.

Improved Gait: By maintaining the shape and structure of the shoe, shanks can enhance gait and walking comfort, making the shoe more functional for prolonged use.

Strength: Shanks are highly durable and resistant to deformation, providing long-lasting support compared to heeled shoes made without them.

Longevity: They withstand wear and tear better, extending the life of the shoe.

Our shank boards are made in a factory that provides locally made components to the South African footwear industry, reducing the need for inferior imports and providing employment to skilled artisans and technicians. Buying from local manufacturers, whom we personally know, is a significant part of our brand commitment to social justice.

While not every part or style of our pieces is made exclusively with vegetable tanned leather, we choose it as a priority where we can. It is a significant indicator of our respect for nature as a future facing brand.

Value of Vegetable tanned leather

Natural: Vegetable tanning uses tannins derived from plants, such as tree bark and leaves, which are renewable resources.

Biodegradability: Leather produced through vegetable tanning tends to be more biodegradable compared to chrome-tanned leather, which can be harmful to the environment.

Less Chemical Pollution: The process involves fewer harmful chemicals, reducing pollution during production and at the end of the product’s life.

Lower Environmental Impact: Vegetable tanning often has a lower environmental impact overall, as it doesn’t require the same level of water and energy resources as chrome tanning.

Breathability: This type of leather is more breathable, which can enhance comfort, especially in warmer climates or for extended wear.

Durability: Vegetable-tanned leather is known for its strength and longevity. It ages beautifully, developing a rich patina over time.

Flexibility: It tends to be more flexible and mouldable, allowing for a more comfortable fit and better movement.

Our vegetable tanned leather takes longer to make than other types of leather as it involves soaking, monitoring and changing tannin baths as well as drying and finishing that can take around 40 to 60 hours spread out over several weeks. The hands on human time to prepare, tan, dry and finish this leather is 12 hours.