When people first pick up a pair of sneakers designed by Steven Weinreb, they are typically perplexed.

“They’ll say, ‘Oh my God, these are extremely lightweight and they’re so cool-looking,’ ” Mr. Weinreb says. “ ‘But they’re made out of paper.’ ”

The shoes are actually made from Tyvek, a material that is as light as paper but also water-resistant and relatively sturdy and breathable. The soles are rubber. Mr. Weinreb sells the shoes online and in boutique shoe stores nationwide through his company Civic Duty, based in Secaucus, N.J.

If you’ve had your attic insulated in the past 30 years, attended a concert requiring a wristband for re-entry, or sent or received a package, you’ve probably used Tyvek. Created by DuPont in 1955, it is made from high-density polyethylene fibers and was originally used, and continues to be used, for things like labels and book jackets. Tyvek has also been used in hazmat suits, banners, medical and industrial packaging, and covers for cars and boats. Now designers are fashioning shoes, bags and other accessories from it.