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If you’re on the hunt for ethical and sustainable sandals to love and wear for years, we’ve got you covered!
The SKL team made a round-up of the most stylish, high-quality, sustainable summer sandals in the eco market. Whether you’re a beach bum, city dweller, or somewhere in between, there’s an eco-friendly option for you.
P.S. Don’t forget to check out The 25 Best Sustainable & Ethical Shoe Brands For Women!
The Best Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Sandals for Women!
Seriously, who doesn’t love slipping into a comfy pair of sustainably made sandals when the sun is out? No offense to my rain boots, but piecing together the perfect summer outfit is so much more fun! And luckily for us, the options are endless!
There are high-quality, sustainable summer sandals for every occasion out there.
Heeled sandals are your go-to for those dressier moments, like weddings or fancy dinner dates. Slides are the laid-back, easy-breezy option, perfect for lazy days at the beach or running errands around town. And then there are mules – aka the perfect options to help elevate your casual jeans-and-tee combo.
Sure, grabbing one of the myriads of cheap pairs you see lining the shelves of every fast-fashion store sounds tempting. But here’s the thing: They’re not exactly doing our planet or our health any favors.
The global footwear produces over 24 billion shoes annually. And 90% of shoes are either landfilled or incinerated.
As you probably imagine, most of those sandals are made from plastic-based materials, which take centuries to break down. So when you toss them out after a season or two, they end up sitting in landfills, polluting our soil and waterways for generations to come.
But here’s a shocking truth you probably didn’t know: Unlike women’s sustainable sandals, synthetic options shed microplastics all day, every day while you walk or run!
Five years ago, a group of environmental science master’s students at the University of California Santa Barbara conducted a real-world wear test to measure the degradation of plastic soles over time.
Their findings were jaw-dropping.
The students estimated that between 9,000 and 400,000 metric tonnes of microplastics are released into the environment annually from shoes through regular use.
So, the next time you’re in the market for a new pair of summer sandals, remember to look beyond the cheap and trendy options. We’re talking about certified ethical leather and vegan sustainable sandals made of cork, organic cotton, and natural rubber.
Not only are these materials better for the planet, but they’re also often higher quality and more durable, meaning your footwear will last you for seasons to come.
Read on to find the most eco-friendly and stylish options.
Favorite Sustainable Summer Sandals in 2024:
1. Nisolo
Nisolo’s sustainable leather sandals have a cult following and for a pretty good reason.
Whether you’re looking for elegant heeled styles or casual flip-flops and slip-ons, they’ve got you covered.
I wear flatform slides all day long, so “ella” is my absolutely favorite pick!
However, most gals are obsessed with “huarache” which is inspired by the rich heritage of pre-Columbian Mexico.
The latter features shock-absorbing foam midsole cushioning and a flexible, no-slip rubber sole.
Of course, all options are created from Leather Working Group Certified leather.
What’s more, Nisolo works closely with partners in Peru, Kenya, and Mexico, providing jobs to over 500 workers across their supply chain.
Price: From $138+
Size Range: US 5-11 | EU 35-42 | UK 3-9
Materials: Genuine leather, rubber, memory foam
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
Our Favorites from Nisolo:
2. Alohas
Alohas offers a wide range of ultra-modern, women’s sandals, produced with high-quality, planet-friendly materials, such as certified leather, recycled rubber, jute, and other organic fibers.
That’s the perfect place to find sustainable sandals like Birkenstock as well as many block heel sandals with slim, lace-up details.
All footwear is handcrafted in Spain through Alohas’ unique production process that reduces carbon emissions, fights overproduction, and creates zero waste.
They handpick providers, collaborating with the Leather Working Group to make sure that their leather is ethical and eco-friendly.
So, whether you’re heading to the office or out for a summer stroll, these sustainably made sandals are sure to shake up your workwear and elevate any outfit.
Price: From $110+
Size Range: US 5-14 | EU 35-45 | UK 2.5-12
Materials: Sustainable leather, rubber, cuerolite, jute, zamak ecologic finishing & more!
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
Our Favorites from Alohas:
3. Feelgrounds
Sandals made from recycled materials? We’ll take them!
The barefoot shoe brand Feelgrounds is an SKL favorite!
On their virtual shelves, you can find an array of barefoot sandals for urban adventurers.
Thanks to their anatomical fit, cushioned straps, wide toe boxes, and flexible zero-drop soles, you’ll be able to wear them all day long.
Did you know that slim soles provide the best base for a natural and upright posture and help save you from knee, hip, or back pain? It’s true!
Price: From $89+
Size Range: US 5-11.5 | EU 35-49 | UK 3-9
Materials: Vegan PU leather, cotton, recycled polyester & lycra, cork, EVA & rubber
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
Our Favorites from Feelgrounds:
4. Vivaia
Vivaia is on a mission to create the most eco-friendly women’s sandals with recycled materials, including plastic bottles collected from the ocean.
Thus far, they’ve managed to transform nearly 3.5 million bottles into footwear – how amazing is that?
Their sandals are not only trendy but also incredibly breathable, perfect for those hot summer days.
Think pointed-toe slingbacks, square-toe block heels, wedges, and more vibrant, fashionable options.
Plus, they’re designed with durable rubber outsoles and supportive, moisture-wicking insoles that keep your feet happy all day long.
Last but not least, when you order from Vivaia, your high-quality, sustainable summer sandals will arrive in recycled cardboard boxes.
Our Favorites from Vivaia:
Price: From $97+
Size Range: US 5-11 | EU 35-43 | UK 2.5-8.5
Materials: PET plastic bottles, knit fabric, rubber, PU foam, natural artemisia argy & more!
Location/Shipping: United Kingdom, ships worldwide
5. Bhava Studio
From vegan leather boots to wear-me-everywhere sustainable walking sandals, Bhava Studio keeps us comfy and stylish all year long.
The independent footwear brand crafts ethical, artisan-crafted shoes with top-quality, organic, recycled, and cruelty-free materials.
I’m obsessed with their wood clogs, but you can also find sustainable platform sandals as well as travel sandals ideal for walking.
To minimize waste even more, Bhava’s timeless styles are designed with repairable soles so they last you for years.
Our Favorites from Bhava:
Price: From $135+
Size Range: US 5-12 | EU 35-42
Materials: Italian vegan leather, natural cork
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
6. Will’s Vegan Store
For the most chic sustainable vegan sandals, look no further than Will’s Vegan Store.
From elegant heeled sandals and sustainable alternatives to Birkenstocks to stylish slides, and clog sandals, there’s something for every occasion.
You can also find recycled espadrille and penny loafers for the office.
Wear them to the beach or out for a stroll in the city—you’ll look fabulous either way.
Every sandal is crafted in Italy or Portugal using vegan materials, right down to the glue.
Most are made from Italian bio-based vegan leather, derived from cereal crops, while other styles feature post-consumer recycled cotton.
Heck, even the outsoles and insoles contain recycled materials to further reduce their environmental impact.
Our Favorites from Will’s Vegan Store:
Price: From $80+
Size Range: US 4-13 | EU 35-47
Materials: Italian vegan leather, vegan suede, cork, recycled rubber
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
7. Able
The affordable eco-fashion brand ABLE creates gorgeous sustainable heeled sandals and flats from high-quality leather, upcycled from discarded cowhides.
This not only gives the leather a second life but also reduces waste in the fashion industry.
On top of that, they work closely with leather partners who use recycled closed-loop water systems and utilize deadstock and scrap materials.
Our Favorites from Able:
Price: From 98+
Size Range: US 5-12
Materials: Nappa leather, cow-based leather, rubber, foam
Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada
8. Made Trade
Made Trade is the mecca of ethically made sandals from raved-about brands like Adelante, Nisolo, and Darzah.
Their range includes women’s sustainable sandals with block heels, clogs, flatforms, and 100% hand-embroidered slides handcrafted with locally sourced leather in Palestine.
What makes Made Trade so darn amazing is that they support BIPOC, Women Owned which follows strict Fair Trade principles and uses eco-friendly materials as much as possible.
Our Favorites from Made Trade:
Price: From $100+
Size Range: US 5-11 | EU 35-42
Materials: Leather nubuck leather, memory foam, rubber & more!
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
9. Fortress
The eco-friendly artisan brand Fortress creates sustainable leather sandals with a twist.
Instead of playing it safe, most designs feature sculpted, round wooden heels as well as soft napa leather or jute wraps.
You can also find beautiful slides for your seaside adventures.
All styles are handcrafted in a family-owned and operated factory run by a third-generation Peruvian-Italian designer.
Seriously, their attention to detail and passion for creation is mind-blowing!
Our Favorites from Fortress:
Price: From $140+
Size Range: EU 35-42
Materials: Napa leather, leather, jute, wood, cork, rubber
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
10. Sezane
In addition to ethical jeans, chic skirts, and organic sweaters, the French luxury fashion brand Sezane creates some of the most elegant, sustainable sandals women love!
Handwoven in their Portuguese atelier, their braided leather sandals are perfect for dressing up or down.
Plus, when you order from Sézane, your sandals will arrive in recycled or FSC-certified cardboard boxes, minimizing waste even further.
To top it all off, they’re a certified B Corporation and have recycled over 13,000 pieces through their recycling program.
Our Favorites from Sezane:
Price: From $205+
Size Range: US 5-11 | EU 35-42 | UK 2-9
Materials: Leather, rubber
Location/Shipping: France, ships worldwide
11. Toms
We have a soft spot for Toms’ eco-friendly sandals for women. This amazing brand operates a One for One™ model.
This means that for every pair of TOMS shoes purchased, a pair of new shoes is given to a child in need in partnership with humanitarian organizations.
Their catalog boasts sustainable platform sandals, slides, and wedges.
What makes them so amazing? Most styles are equipped with a high-rebound comfort OrthoLite® Eco X40-Hybrid™ insole made with 32% eco content including 15% hybrid materials, 12% bio-oil, and 5% recycled rubber.
Their leather is Leather Working Group-certified and they are a proud member of the Fair Labor Association, so safe working conditions are guaranteed.
Our Favorites from Toms:
Price: From $39.95+
Size Range: US 5-12 | EU 35.5-43.5 | UK 3-10
Materials: REPREVE® recycled polyester, recycled jersey, leather, woven, rubber, eco EVA & more!
Location/Shipping: United States
12. Matisse
Matisse’s women’s fashion sandals are ideal for every scenario – from beachside relaxation to stylish city strolls.
Their vegan sustainable sandals are ultra-modern, featuring raffia.
Some of their slide flip-flops and gladiator sandals are made of synthetic leather and rich finishes.
You’ll fall in love with their chunky platform heels – personally, I’ve never seen something similar.
Every style is made by hand in family-owned and operated factories.
To top it all off, Matisse’s packaging is made from 100% recycled paper products, and they only use vegan glue.
Our Favorites from Matisse:
Price: From $32+
Size Range: US 5-11 | EU 35-41 | UK 3-9
Materials: Leather, suede, synthetic leather & more!
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
13. The Root Collective
The Root Collective creates gorgeously unique, handmade footwear ethically, in Guatemala by local artisans who earn 50% to 400% above the national minimum wage.
To manufacture these women’s sustainable sandals, they use high-quality materials like rubber and leather, sourced from a tannery certified by the Leather Working Group.
What’s more, some sandals feature handwoven cotton uppers with cool geometric patterns, adding to the charm and individuality of each pair.
To top it all off, The Root Collective openly shares its production costs and even offers a second-hand marketplace where you can resell or buy pre-loved products.
Price: From $128+
Size Range: US 5-11
Materials: Leather, handwoven cotton, rubber
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
14. Noah Italian Vegan Shoes
Need a comfy pair of sustainable walking sandals to match your vegan leather purse?
Whether it’s a wedge heel, a small block heel, or flats and flip-flop sandals, Noah Italian Vegan Shoes has you covered.
The entire lineup is Fair Trade and ethically made by skilled artisans in Italy.
Their materials of choice? Micronappa or microsuede, cork, rubber, and a high percentage of recycled content.
Price: From €59+
Size Range: EU 35-47
Materials: Corn leather, micronappa, cork, rubber, microsuede & more!
Location/Shipping: Italy, ships worldwide
15. Nae Vegan Shoes
Nae Vegan Shoes is a beloved sustainable European brand with an array of Birkenstock-style shoes, sustainable heeled sandals, and clogs to choose from.
All footwear, cruelty-free, and vegan pairs are created ethically in certified factories in Portugal using materials like cork, Pinatex leather, latex, organic cotton, and recycled plastic as well as OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified microfibre.
So rest assured that your summer assemblies will be stylish, ethical, and environmentally friendly.
Price: From $78+
Size Range: US 5-10 | EU 36-42 | UK 3-8
Materials: Vegan nobuk, vegan leather, microfiber, rubber, cork, neolite gum rubber & more!
Location/Shipping: Portugal, ships worldwide
What makes sandals sustainable and ethical?
Women’s sustainable sandals are ethically and responsibly made from natural, eco-friendly materials like certified leather, vegan leather, raffia, natural rubber, cork, organic cotton, and recycled plastics. But it’s not just about what the sandals are made of—it’s also about how they’re made.
Ethical manufacturing is all about treating workers fairly and minimizing environmental impact. That means choosing factories that pay fair wages, provide safe working conditions, and minimize waste.
Sustainable sandal brands are upfront about where their materials come from and how their products are made. They’re not trying to hide anything—they want you to know exactly what you’re getting and how it’s impacting the world around you.
What are the best eco-friendly materials for sustainable sandals?
Sandals Made From Recycled Materials:
Recycled PET (rPET) from recycled plastic bottles is a great option for reducing waste and giving it a second life.
Biodegradable Sandals Made From Natural Fibers:
Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, which naturally regenerate after each harvest, making it a renewable resource. Hemp is another fantastic option. This fast-growing plant requires minimal water and pesticides to grow.
Sustainable Vegan Sandals:
This innovative material is made from things like fruit skins, vegetable fibers, and even mushroom mycelium.
Leather Working Group Certified Leather Sandals:
If you want to opt for sustainable leather sandals, make sure that they are certified by the Leather Working Group. This organization evaluates and certifies the environmental performance of leather manufacturers.
This was your full guide to eco-friendly sandals!
We hope our guide helped you find your new, favorite pair of women’s sustainable sandals. Instead of blindly following trends, let’s take a step back and think about the bigger picture.
Whether you’re looking for something casual or formal, it would be best to go for options made from eco-friendly materials like recycled plastic, cork, hemp, and LWG-certified leather.
There are dozens of amazing brands out there that thrive on ethical, waste-free manufacturing practices, like fair wages, and safe working conditions.
At the end of the day, investing in high-quality sustainable summer sandals that you love and will wear for years to come is not only good for your wallet, but it’s also good for the planet.
If you enjoyed this article, check out these other community favorites below!
- 21 Best Barefoot Sandals | Hiking, Running & Walking
- The 25 Best Sustainable & Ethical Shoe Brands For Women
- The 25 Most Ethical & Sustainable Sneakers | Reviewed & Tested!
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