Journey

Our slippers begin their journey in the homeland of our co-founder, who always dreamed of bringing something meaningful from Kyrgyztan to Iceland — something honest, valuable, and deeply connected to both cultures. We found that connection in wool.

For centuries, sheep have been central to life in both Kyrgyzstan and Iceland. In landscapes shaped by harsh winters, high mountains, and untamed nature, wool has provided warmth, protection and comfort. It is more than a material — it is a shared heritage.

The sheep from the Kyrgyz highlands, develop a naturally curly fiber in harsh mountain conditions. Their wool is both semi-coarse and semi-fine, which creates a dense, resilient felt suited to footwear and well adapted to cold climates.

We work closely with a trusted felt producer in Kyrgyzstan, where traditional craftsmanship and generations of felting knowledge remain at the heart of every product.

Responsibility

We do not position Rýja as a fully sustainable brand. Creating new products inevitably has an environmental impact, and we believe it is important to acknowledge that openly.

At the same time, we strive to do our best to operate as responsibly as possible through thoughtful sourcing, fair trade principles, and considered production practices. We work with certified natural wool and prioritise quality, durability, and longevity to encourage slower, more mindful consumption.

Every stage of the process — from sourcing to felting to finishing — is approached with care for people, animals, and the environment. We continue to evaluate our materials and methods in an effort to reduce our impact and make more responsible choices as the brand grows.

OEKO-TEX® Certified

The felt used in our slippers is certified to OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, ensuring it is safe, natural, and free from harmful substances. Each pair is made by hand with care and precision, reflecting our commitment to quality and lasting comfort.