Featured Press
Learning About Felt In Kyrgyzstan
Josh Rubin
February 17, 2023
Beginning in the northern Tian Shan Mountains, a journey of tradition, craft and care with Kyrgies and Tumar.
Ancient Felt Wool Traditions Meet Modernity With These Cozy Slippers
Celia Shatzman
November 29, 2022
France is known for its perfume, Italy for its leather and Scotland for its whisky, to name a few famous exports. One that may not be as well-known is Kyrgyzstan and its wool. In the Naryn and Issyk-Kul regions of Kyrgyzstan are farms where sheep frolic in the striking mountains of the Central Asian country. Though the farmers are no longer nomadic, the wool’s unique quality hasn’t changed.
Of Sheep and Wool: How Modern Artisans Revived the Kyrgyz Art of Felting
Alexandra Marvar
November 3, 2022
On a slightly overcast day, felt artisan Chinara Makashova and I sit together in Restoran Pishpek, a bistro built to resemble a 19th-century fortress. We’re here to eat, but we’re also here to talk about the country’s storied history, which is intricately intertwined with shepherds, sheep, wool, and mutton. On the walls around us are large, framed, felted artworks. One depicts buzkashi, a Central Asian sport similar to polo, that involves men on horseback chasing after the headless corpse of a goat in place of a ball. On the table are beets, borscht, all manner of fried bread, and no shortage of meat.
Other Honorable Press Mentions
What to pack for a ski trip if you're only bringing a carry-on
January 13, 2023
Bring your own slippers to the hotel to feel warm and cozy. Easy to pack and transport, these Kyrgies Tengries wool house shoes are not your average slippers: Handmade with felt by craftsmen in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, the non-slip soles provide seamless traction and comfort.
Welcome to the Magentaverse—Here's How to Shop Pantone's Color of the Year
January 9, 2023
All natural wool, these Krygies Slides are handmade by artisans in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
‘I’m a Podiatrist, and These Are the Best Slippers for Pregnancy’
January 7, 2023
Lower back pain, frequent urination, and a growing belly—there are so many bodily changes that occur during pregnancy. But that's not all. Perhaps the most surprising difference between pregnancy and the non-pregnant life is feet changes. "During pregnancy, it is not uncommon to notice flattening of the foot arches, swelling, an increase in show size, and even ingrown toenails," says Mohammed Rimawi, DPM, a podiatrist based in New York.
GEARBOX: DOWN BOOTIES
January 7, 2023
“They’re heavier than the down options, but also much more versatile,” a tester said. “Not something that I’d leave in the closet until my next camping trip. I use them as house slippers and après shoes as well.”
Holiday Gift Guide, Part 2: Great Gifts for Outdoor Adventurers
December 2022
There are a ton of slippers on the market. But not many are handmade. Nor made of natural wool. Nor suitable for indoor rugs and hardwood as well as quick trips outdoors.
The Best Snow Boots of 2023
December 2022
This slipper is backed by history: Made by hand in the mountain community of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, it’s modeled after the classic Russian Valenki, the traditional winter footwear worn by nomadic Russian people for centuries.
31 Holiday Gifts That Are Worth The Splurge
December 1, 2022
How cozy are these Kyrgies house shoes? They're handmade by artisans in Kyrgyzstan with natural felted wool from small, family-run farms. They're breathable, odor-resistant and durable, making these a gift that can be appreciated for a long time to come. Wear them with or without socks, in one of two gender-neutral, soft hues.
8 Sustainable Gifts Sitting In Made Trade’s Eco-Chic Holiday Shop
November 30, 2022
Although thin, these slides are equipped with sturdy vegetable-tanned leather soles that can withstand a quick trip to the garbage can or mailbox.
Kyrgies Wool Slippers: Perfect Cozy Stocking Stuffers
November 25, 2022
The Kyrgies backstory is what really shines for me. Each pair is made by hand in Kyrgyzstan, using methods that date back centuries. Their sheep roam freely, much the same way that the sheep that my Basque ancestors used to roam in Northern Nevada. The sheep are sheared, and the raw wool is cleaned and processed before being needled into sheets of felt. The felt is tough and thick, a technology which predates woven technologies by centuries.
10 Best Sustainable Slippers for Toasty Feet [2023]
November 22, 2022
The brand is a member of 1% For The Planet and they donate 1% of their revenues to environmental causes and organizations. The wool in your Kyrgies comes from sheep that live in open fields in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan that are cared for by small family-run farms. They’re cozy and snug, ideal for chilly days.
39 Anniversary Gifts ToCelebrate Every Milestone
November 4, 2022
High-quality slippers are game-changing around the house. Get a pair for your love and get a pair for yourself—everyone will be happy in these.
These Are the Best Slippers To Wear if You Get Sweaty Feet Easily
September, 29 2022
Kyrgies is a leader in boiled-wool slippers. These snuggly shoes have everything you want out of a good slipper: breathability (even on hot days), odor-resistance, a trendy look—all made from sustainable materials.
Mother's Day is May 8. Here are some gift ideas we think moms will love
April 12, 2022
There are countless ways to show the moms in our lives how much we love and appreciate them — from flowers to homemade cards to a nice family meal.
But if you're looking to splurge a little bit this year, we have some gift ideas we think moms will love.
Slippers with a soul: Kyrgies blend wool tradition with living-wage jobs for women
February 19, 2018
“Wool felt is the oldest textile on earth. There are examples of wool felt that are at least 8,000 years old,” Saul said. “And the people who make these slippers, the Kyrgyzstan people along the ancient silk road, have been wool-felting for as long as people have been there.”
