CLAE sneakers

CLAE is a Los Angeles-based footwear brand founded in 2001 by Sung Choi. The brand is recognized for its minimalist aesthetic, blending the style of classic casual shoes with the comfort of athletic construction. CLAE has built a reputation for its focus on sustainability, frequently utilizing eco-friendly materials such as recycled fibers, organic cotton, and innovative vegan alternatives like cactus leather and apple waste fiber.

Most CLAE footwear is manufactured in a long-term partner workshop located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where the brand maintains a dedicated team to oversee quality control and ethical production. In 2023, the brand expanded its manufacturing footprint by launching its first 'Made in LA' model, the Louie, produced in collaboration with the technologically advanced KX Lab in Los Angeles. The brand remains privately held, with founder Sung Choi returning as creative director in early 2024 to lead its continued focus on premium, sustainable lifestyle footwear.