Responsibly crafted
Responsibly crafted
For more than six decades, we've been shaped by a deep commitment to responsible production, innovation, and enduring quality.
65 Years of Responsible Craftmanship
Less than 3% of the world’s footwear is made in Europe today. Most shoes worn in Finland are produced in regions where working conditions and wages often remain unclear. At Pomar, we do things differently. We regularly open our Pärnu factory doors to visitors and journalists, because we believe in showing, not just telling, the story behind each pair.
Our craftsmen are at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we invest in their well-being, with flexible hours, lifelong learning, recreation, and appropriate time to rest. Some have been with us for over 30 years, and we’re proud of their expertise and dedication.
Owning our factory also enables us to innovate, refine techniques, and uphold exceptional standards of quality in every pair of shoes we sell. This hands-on experience gives us unique insights into every aspect of shoemaking, from design and material selection to responsible production and sustainability.
We also do our best to guide our customers in caring for their shoes in the right way. Establishing a consistent shoe care routine is a sustainable way to extend the lifespan of shoes. A longer product lifespan benefits both the nature and your wallet! Read more about how to care for your shoes here.
Our Materials and Suppliers
At every stage of our manufacturing process, we use carefully selected materials sourced from trusted suppliers and partners. We personally visit and audit their facilities to ensure the highest quality standards. In addition, we proudly collaborate with some of the industry’s most advanced material manufacturers, developing new products that showcase their latest innovations.
Trusted partners
While much of our production happens in-house, we also work closely with trusted producers and production partners who share our values. This collaboration ensures every Pomar product reflects our unwavering commitment to quality, durability, and responsibility. Each piece embodies decades of expertise, ethical craftsmanship, and a firm stand against fast fashion, supporting your comfort while respecting the planet.
protecting the baltic sea
Pomar and John Nurminen Foundation
We are also contributing to help safeguard the heritage of the Baltic Sea; and protect its future by supporting the John Nurminen Foundation. For every order of Pomar Zero Waste, we will donate 4€ towards saving the Baltic Sea. Our Zero Waste collection aims to reduce waste and use all the materials left over in our factory. We also want to encourage the use of surplus materials by other manufacturers and prevent any waste from ending up in the sea.
Our Approach to Responsible Leather Sourcing
We see responsibility as part of everything we do. It starts with thoughtful sourcing and continues through to helping you extend the life of your shoes. We’re committed to continuous progress, making conscious decisions every step of the way.
A key part of that commitment is the careful sourcing and selection of materials. All the leather we use is a by-product of the meat industry, meaning it’s never the primary reason for raising animals. By choosing materials that would otherwise go to waste, we support more efficient resource use and contribute to a more circular system.
We work exclusively with leather suppliers audited by the Leather Working Group (LWG). All natural leather used at our factory in Pärnu, Estonia, comes from tanneries certified as Gold Standard, the highest level of environmental performance. This certification ensures that manufacturing processes meet strict criteria for water use, chemical management, energy efficiency, and waste treatment.
We’re also actively exploring innovative leathers and alternatives. We've tested materials such as game leather, but they currently do not meet our standards for quality, consistency, or durability. Still, our commitment to innovation continues, and we remain open to emerging possibilities.
Vegan leather is another promising area of development. Our collection already features premium, Italian-sourced vegan microsuedes, selected for performance, craftsmanship, and visual appeal.
Responsibility is not a destination; it’s an ongoing journey. While we know there’s more to do, we’re committed to making better choices, one meaningful step at a time.
Together with our skilled colleagues - We Made Your Shoes!
Top row (L-R)
Urve Vainos (Production Secretary), Jaanus Järv (Toe Lasting Operator), Tatjana Hallaste (Finishing Department)
Bottom row (L-R)
Kati Jõe (Clicking Department), Marika Piile (Sewing Department), Maile Tamme (Sole Cementing)