SeaVees are thoughtfully designed in Santa Barbara, California, and batch-made in a family owned factory in China. Understanding that manufacturing in China may bring up some concerns, we want to assure you that the working conditions and production techniques used to handcraft every pair of SeaVees are truly the best in class. While we would love to be able to manufacture here in the United States, we simply can’t. SeaVees are traditionally vulcanized, a time-honored footwear construction that dates back more than 100 years. The art of vulcanizing—where a hot kiln molds the upper and the rubber together—is no longer an industry in the United States. The last U.S. vulcanizing factory closed in the 1990s and all of the specialized equipment and required skills moved overseas. Fortunately, our long-standing partner in China has the expertise and shares our same appreciation for genuine sneaker-making.

We are extremely passionate about the multiple benefits of an authentically vulcanized sneaker—from the obvious greater durability to the magical little nuances that happen in the oven that truly distinguishes a pure vulcanized sneaker from an imitation. We are closely engaged in the processes and responsibilities of the factory. Our CEO/Designer visits the factory every three months to ensure the integrity of our products.

SeaVees are carefully constructed in small production runs to maintain quality and consistency. We use natural gum rubber which gives the sole of every SeaVees more bounce, flexibility and longer-lasting results. In each shoe is our custom contoured insole made of perforated memory foam that gives you extra cushion and cooling. We continue to develop new materials, use exclusive finishing techniques and make modern amendments to classic styling creating an original sneaker we hope you love.