Kyrgyz Wool and Felting

Kyrgyz Wool

Kyrgyz wool is truly one of a kind. Sourced from heritage breeds known as "semi-rough" sheep, it has a distinct texture and naturally short fiber length that make it perfect for felting and especially well-suited for slippers. The result is a dense, durable felt that’s  breathable year-round.

Beyond its function, Kyrgyz wool is a reflection of a traditional, sustainable way of life. Our wool is always mulesed-free, Oeko-Tex certified, and sourced from small, family-run farms. Every pair of Kyrgies begins with this remarkable material—and honors the generations who’ve tended it before us.

The Magic of Wool Felt

Wool felt is the oldest textile in the world, used for thousands of years because of its durability, warmth, and simplicity. It’s a naturally low-impact material that requires no weaving or synthetic additives to create.

Our felting process uses just three ingredients: wool, water, and vegetable-based soap. That’s it. The result is a strong, breathable, and sustainable fabric that connects modern comfort to ancient tradition.

Vegetable Tanned Leather

Our leather is tanned without the use of chromium or other toxic chemicals. Instead, we use traditional vegetable tanning methods that rely on natural extracts from oak, mimosa, and quebracho trees. This process is safer for the planet, for the people who work with the leather, and for those who wear it.

Beyond sustainability, vegetable tanned leather has its own beauty. It softens over time, develops a rich patina, and tells a story with wear. It's the kind of material that only gets better with age.

Formed with Simple, Honest Materials

Handmade With Pride

Our partner factory isn’t just fair, it’s a world leader in wool felting. Every pair of Kyrgies is carefully handcrafted by skilled artisans who take pride in their work.

With a deep commitment to quality, they work together to ensure every detail meets our high standards. The result is a product made with care, built to last, and designed for everyday comfort.

Behind the scenes

How Kyrgies Wovens Are Made

The Kyrgies Care Ritual

Indoor Use Guidelines

Our leather or felt-soled products are designed primarily for indoor comfort. While they can be worn outside, they are not intended for outdoor conditions.

Outdoor Use Guidelines

For those who prefer occasional outdoor use, our rubber-soled slippers are a suitable option. They're capable of outdoor wear but are not as robust as heavy-duty outdoor footwear. We recommend avoiding heavy rain or puddles with these as well. Do not leave the outdoor shoes outside in the sun or temperatures above 90 degrees. Avoid using cleaning products, solutions, or soap on the rubber.

Cleaning & Care

Our slippers are crafted from wool felt, a material that is sensitive to water. Wool felt can lose its shape when wet, so machine washing is strongly discouraged. To keep your Kyrgies in top condition, we advise spot cleaning with a damp cloth and lukewarm water, followed by air drying. Dry cleaning is also a viable care option.

Learn More About Kyrgies

The Making of Kyrgies Wovens

Learn about the traditional weaving and centuries-old wool felting techniques local Kyrgyzstan women use to create our soft and cozy Wovens.

Sustainability

Our sustainable wool slippers and house shoes are ethically made, eco-conscious, rooted in tradition, and handcrafted from Kyrgyz wool and leather.

Find Your Fit

Kyrgies has introduced many styles over the years. For the uninitiated, the choices may be overwhelming. Fret not, the Kyrgies styles guide is here to help you find the right style for you.