Is VIVOBAREFOOT's Wool Mulesing Free?

At VIVOBAREFOOT, we prioritize sustainability, ethical sourcing, and animal welfare in every aspect of our production process. Since 2019, we have proudly partnered with Woolmark, a globally recognized authority on merino wool. Woolmark pioneers collaboration between Australian wool growers and global organizations to ensure the highest standards for wool production.

While we are 100% committed to achieving full transparency across our value chain as quickly as possible, the nature of the wool industry presents challenges. Like many others in the industry, we do not yet have full visibility of every individual farm supplying our merino wool.

Why can’t we confirm our wool is mulesing free?

1. Transparency in the Supply Chain: Ensuring full traceability from farm to final product is a complex challenge faced by the entire industry. VIVOBAREFOOT is actively working to overcome these barriers.
2. Fly Strike Management: In Australia, where much of the world’s merino wool is sourced, wool growers occasionally need to undertake medical interventions, such as mulesing, to manage fly strike—a serious condition that can severely impact animal welfare. These interventions are conducted in alignment with the Australian Five Animal Welfare Domains, a globally recognized standard for humane treatment of animals.

Our Commitment to Animal Welfare

Animal welfare is a core value for VIVOBAREFOOT. We are deeply committed to supporting innovative research and sustainable practices that minimize the need for medical interventions. Through our partnership with Woolmark, we actively support initiatives to:

• Develop fly strike prevention methods that eliminate the need for invasive procedures.
• Encourage sustainable farming practices that prioritize the health and well-being of animals.
• Advocate for greater traceability and accountability within the global wool supply chain.

Looking Ahead

VIVOBAREFOOT is committed to continuous improvement and transparency. Our long-term goal is to ensure that all our materials, including merino wool, align with the highest ethical and environmental standards. As part of this journey, we will continue to work with Woolmark and other industry leaders to make significant strides toward a mulesing-free wool supply chain.

If you have further questions or would like to learn more about our sustainability efforts, please contact our Barefoot Buddies via our Contact Form.

Thank you for your interest in supporting more ethical and sustainable footwear choices!