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Looking for the most ethical and sustainable sneakers to upgrade your casual shoe game in the most eco-conscious way possible?
From affordable sustainable sneakers women and men choose on-repeat to ultra-stylish recycled sneakers, our list will help you find your next ethical sneaker crush!
P.S. Don’t forget to check out our roundup of the 19 best ethical & sustainable shoe brands for women.
This post is about the best sustainable sneakers!
Let’s be honest. If you are a comfort-seeker, sporting sustainable sneakers fresh from the box may feel more like an act of self-care rather than a sartorial purchase. Luckily, we are experts at spotting the best sustainable shoe brands to help you fill in any gaps in your footwear lineup.
Whether it’s in the form of hiker-approved barefoot sneakers or inherently cool skateboarding kicks, long gone are the days when the most ethical sneaker companies offered just a few options with the same colorways.
In 2024, affordable sustainable sneakers come in various silhouettes, colors, and materials!
From apple skin leather low-tops and organic cotton canvas sneakers to Fair Trade shoes made of recycled plastic bottles, the options are truly endless. The most ethical sneaker brands are here to outfit us with light, breathable, and waterproof footwear that’s equipped with unique technologies.
Think built-in arch support, high-performance midsoles that are big on cushion and energy return, and toe boxes that are wide enough to allow for natural stability.
What are sustainable sneakers?
In contrast to conventional petroleum-based plastic sneakers, sustainable sneaker brands prioritize eco-friendly materials, such as recycled plastic bottles, reclaimed rubber, and organic cotton, for crafting their footwear.
These brands go the extra mile by incorporating sustainable elements into every component, including shoelaces and insoles, all designed with a strong commitment to reducing their environmental footprint. This translates into lower energy consumption, diminished reliance on natural resources, and a heightened emphasis on recyclability.
Moreover, sustainable sneakers frequently feature leather that is responsibly sourced from certified tanneries, employing ethical methods and materials that prioritize both human well-being and environmental conservation. This leather is often a byproduct of local farming and agricultural industries, minimizing waste and promoting sustainability.
Furthermore, the term “ethical” extends to vegan products within the sustainable sneaker realm, encompassing natural textiles like organic cotton and innovative leather alternatives such as apple skin leather.
These companies are dedicated to establishing new industry benchmarks through fair and transparent supply chains, as well as the use of ethically sourced materials. Even their packaging follows suit, either being recyclable or crafted from recycled materials, further contributing to the reduction of our collective carbon footprint.
Which sustainable sneaker brand is the most popular?
While numerous sustainable sneaker brands deserve our recognition, the most sought-after options in 2024 include Cariuma, Will’s Vegan Shoes, Veja, Flamingos Life, and Ecoalf. Each brand brings its unique eco-friendly ethos to the forefront.
Cariuma combines style with sustainability, emphasizing the use of natural and renewable materials such as organic canvas, sustainably sourced leather, and even bamboo.
True to its name, Will’s Vegan Shoes is committed to 100% cruelty-free footwear. They stay away from animal products entirely, opting instead for vegan leather crafted from plant-based materials, recycled rubber, and sustainable linings. It’s a win-win for both animals and the environment.
Veja stands out for its commitment to transparency and eco-consciousness. They place a strong emphasis on fair trade and ethical manufacturing practices.
Flamingos Life is dedicated to recycled materials. They transform plastic bottles into comfortable shoe linings and utilize recycled rubber for their soles.
Finally, Ecoalf is on a mission to convert trash into fashion. Their focus is on upcycling, with old fishing nets, plastic bottles, and even discarded tires finding new life in their sneakers, exemplifying their commitment to sustainability and environmental impact reduction.
Which sneaker brands are biodegradable?
Veja creates almost 100% biodegradable sneakers for every taste. Most of the components in their shoes are biodegradable except for the lining and rubber additives in the sole. The latter components are made of recycled polyester or recycled cotton.
Which sneaker brands are made from recycled materials?
Psudo is one of the best sustainable sneaker brands with styles made from recycled materials in the USA. Each stylish pair features eco-friendly fabric made of 75% recycled plastic bottles. Even their PSUDO blu insoles and soles are made of 85% recycled foam!
For sustainable vegan sneakers, you can also check out Bhava Studio. The company uses the finest materials like organic cotton linings, hand-painted embossed cork, and premium recycled microfibers. It’s all about taking a stand for what’s right and beautiful, inside and out.
This post is about the best sustainable and ethical sneakers.
The 25 Most Ethical & Sustainable Sneaker Brands
1. Psudo
Psudo is one of our favorite sustainable sneaker brands that managed to “hack” the sneaker industry.
Their easy slip-on style ensures comfort and convenience on the go, a go-to for every occasion – from the office boardroom to a relaxing day at the beach. Yes!
This unique 3-piece construction eliminates laces and all the other waste that comes with normal multi-component sneakers. But what truly sets PSUDO apart is what’s within.
Their soft and breathable upper is spun from recycled plastic bottles; the soles are made of 85% recycled foam, giving a second life to materials that would otherwise harm our environment.
We love that PSUDO believes in purposeful, on-demand manufacturing, waste elimination, and ensuring that every component of our sneakers is intentionally chosen!
Price: $138
Ethics: Eco-friendly materials made from recycled plastic bottles, on-demand production, local and ethical manufacturing
Size Range: Women’s US 5.5-11 | Men’s US 8-14
Location/Shipping: USA,
Best Sustainable Sneakers from Psudo:
2. Vivaia
Vivaia offers some of the best sustainable sneakers women opt for on-repeat.
With a strong emphasis on positive global impact, they exclusively use recycled and responsibly sourced materials to create stylish shoes from rescued plastic water bottles from landfills.
Plus, thanks to the cutting-edge 3D technology, their production process is meticulously zero-waste!
Stylish, timeless, and oh-so-comfy, what more do we really need?
Price: From $119+
Ethics: Global Recycled Standard, Recycled Blended Claim Standard, eco friendly materials, low waste, safe & fair labor, carbon-neutral shipping
Size Range: Women’s US 5-13.5 | Men’s US 3.5-12
Location/Shipping: UK, ships worldwide
Best Eco-Conscious Sneakers from Vivaia:
3. Nisolo
Nisolo is lauded as one of the most transparent and ethical sneaker brands with ridiculously stylish and extremely comfy kicks that are designed and produced with raw materials that are durable, timeless, and have less impact on the environment.
Their everyday sneakers for women feature recycled (rPET) knitting made from plastic water bottles and Green EVA” shock-absorbing, breathable insoles.
The water-resistant upper materials and waterproof outsoles make them ideal for all seasons. In other words, you just found your next favorite affordable sustainable sneakers.
Price: From $150+
Ethics: 100% Living Wages, 0% Net Carbon, B corporation, Leather Working Group, Climate Neutral Certified, recyclable packaging
Size Range: Women’s US 5-11 | Men’s US 8-13
Location/Shipping: Peru, ships worldwide
Best Affordable Sustainable Sneakers from Nisolo:
4. Feel Grounds
Look no further than Feel Grounds for the healthiest and best sustainable sneakers of 2024.
Their sustainable barefoot shoe collection includes sandals, sneakers, boots, and even slip-ons!
All comfy styles are crafted ethically with recycled & vegan Materials in European BSCI-certified factories. So, fair labor is guaranteed.
Price: From $99+
Ethics: European BSCI factory, fair labor, recycled & vegan materials, eco-friendly
Size Range: Women’s US 5-11.5 | Men’s US 7-15
Location/Shipping: Vietnam, ships to USA
Popular Sustainable Sneakers from Feel Grounds:
5. Cariuma
Cariuma is one of the most ethical sneaker brands that solely uses fair trade certified cotton and natural, sustainably-sourced rubber and ethical leather.
What’s more, their 6 different sneaker styles are all equipped with laces, labels, uppers, and threads made from recycled plastic bottles. Because of their love of skateboarding, each style is specifically designed to meet strict comfort and durability demands.
We especially love their classic, white canvas low tops, but you can also find high tops and slip-ons!
Price: From $79+
Ethics: Sustainable materials, fair working hours & wages, B Corporation Certified, Butterfly Marked Certified, vegan
Size Range: Women & Men US 5-13
Location/Shipping: Brazil, ships worldwide
Best Vegan Sneakers from Cariuma:
6. Baabuk
Baabuk might be known for their ethical house shoes, but their sustainable collection also extends to stylish sneakers!
These wear-me-everywhere designs are made from responsibly sourced wool that keeps your feet cozy and dry!
To further reinforce their eco pledge, Baabuk also offers a repair kit to help us prolong our sustainable sneakers’ lifecycle, which is amazing!
Price: From $135+
Ethics: B Corporation Certified, sustainably sourced wool, fair trade
Size Range: Women’s US 5-11.5 | Men’s US 7-13
Location/Shipping: Switzerland, ships worldwide
Best sneakers from Baabuk:
7. Thousand Fell
Thousand Fell is ready to upgrade our sneaker rotation with affordable sustainable kicks that are super comfortable, breathable, built to last, and designed to be recycled at the end of life.
Each pair is made of bioleather fabric with a natural quartz coating to repel stains and liquid (think water resistant).
The material is a sustainable vegan combination of corn waste, coconut husk, and recycled bottles that look and feel better than leather.
Price: From $125+
Ethics: Zero-waste brand, fully recyclable materials, vegan, ethically made, sustainable packaging
Size Range: Women’s US 5-10 | Men’s US 8-13
Location/Shipping: USA, ships to Canada
Best Sporting Sustainable Sneakers from Thousand Fell:
8. Will’s Vegan
Wills Vegan is our favorite sustainable destination for made-to-last vegan handbags and oh-so-chic vegan leather boots. But did you know that they also carry our favorite ethical sneakers?
Their collection is made in small batches in Italy and Portugal. Aside from being certified carbon-neutral, the brand meets Oeko Tex 100 and REACH regulations.
Breathable and water resistant, some are equipped with 100% recycled polyester mesh knit while others feature vegan leather made with plants using bio oil sourced from organic cereal crops grown in Northern Europe. How amazing is that?
Price: From $88+
Ethics: Certified Sustainable Vegan Leather, made in Small batches in Europe, carbon neutral, plastic-free packaging, solar energy, fair wages
Size Range: Women’s US 4-10 | Men’s US 7.5-14
Location/Shipping: USA, ships worldwide
Best Vegan Leather Sneakers from Will´s Vegan:
9. Wilding Shoes
Barefoot shoe enthusiasts, rejoice! Our family can’t get enough of Wildling Shoes all year round!
What makes these shoes exceptional is their dedication to enabling your feet to move freely, just like when you’re barefoot, but with footwear’s added comfort and protection.
Crafted using recycled materials and produced locally, these sustainable sneakers carry a minimal carbon footprint, aligning with our eco-conscious values.
Price: From $119+
Ethics: B Corporation Certified, locally sourced & sustainably harvested natural wool, handcrafted by local artisans, Fair Trade Certified
Size Range: Women’s US 5-14 | Men’s US 4-13.5
Location/Shipping: USA, ships to Canada
Best Barefoot Sneakers from Wilding Shoes:
10. Splay
In addition to amazing kids barefoot shoes, Splay also offers something special for adults as well.
Designed to last for years, these men’s and women’s sustainable sneakers and slip-ons prioritize durability, flexibility, and comfort.
The wide toe box and zero-drop platform ensure your feet have the freedom to move naturally and comfortably. Plus, there are more than 20 different styles to choose from!
Price: From $46.49
Discount Code: SKL10 for 10% off
Ethics: Made in North America
Size Range: Women’s US 5-15 | Men’s US 6-13
Location/Shipping: USA, ships worldwide
Amazing Sustainable Sneakers from Splay:
11. Tom’s
Tom’s is one of the most popular sustainable sneaker brands – and for a pretty good reason.
They commit to giving back by dedicating a generous 1/3 of their profits to Grassroots Goods—an organization actively creating impactful change at the local level.
This commitment showcases their dedication to improving communities and lives beyond just selling shoes.
To top it all off, Tom’s goal to expand the use of organic cotton, sustainably harvested, underlines their commitment to responsible sourcing and environmental consciousness even more!
Price: From $64.95+
Ethics: B Corporation Certified, Earthwise, plastic-free packaging
Size Range: Women’s US 5-12 | Men’s US 6-17
Location/Shipping: USA
Best Sustainable Shoes from Tom´s Ltk:
12. Made Trade
Made Trade is a beloved sustainable marketplace dedicated to curating a selection of shoe brands that prioritize fair wages and ethical practices.
From this conscious curation springs an array of one-of-a-kind artisanal masterpieces that adorn your feet and tell a beautiful story.
Every pair of sustainable sneakers they offer is a testament to their dedication to ingenuity, handcraftsmanship, and responsible sourcing. How amazing is that?
Price: From $90+
Ethics: Sustainable materials, vegan, BIPOC-owned, recycled packaging, fair-trade, Climate Neutral Certified, handcrafted
Size Range: Women’s US 4.5-14.5 | Men’s US 3-13
Location/Shipping: USA, Cayman Islands
Best Affordable Sneakers from Made Trade:
13. Sezane
From beautiful skirts to jeans and even sustainable sneakers, Sezane is the mecca of chic and stylish wardrobe staples.
Morgane Sézalory designs their entire sneaker lineup and can rival the trend-driven silhouettes of the most popular brands out there.
Also, all pairs are ethically made in their Portuguese workshop using premium quality leather. Durable, timeless and of-so-comfy!
Price: From $170+
Ethics: Certified B-corporation and Société à Mission, recycled packaging, audited factories, Made in our Portuguese atelier
Size Range: Women’s US 5-11 | Men’s US 7-12
Location/Shipping: Portugal, ships to USA
Best Sporting Sustainable Sneakers from Sezane:
14. Faherty
Faherty is a beloved women’s and men’s sustainable clothing brand that proudly adheres to the Textile Exchange and BLUESIGN standards.
With a modern American heritage style, these footwear staples are all crafted ethically using top-notch materials like chrome-free leather, rubber, and sugarcane.
They are literally “ the kings of casual, beach-inspired comfort. “ And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out their basics too.
Price: From $150+
Ethics: Recycled and renewable fabrics
Size Range: Women’s & Men’s US 6-11.5
Location/Shipping: USA, ships worldwide
Best Sustainable Sneakers from Faherty:
15. Rothy’s
On the hunt for sustainable sneakers women simply adore? Rothy’s comfortable, timeless, and sustainable footwear is for you!
By utilizing plastic bottles rescued from the ocean as a primary component, Rothy’s transforms waste into beautiful, eco-friendly footwear and accessories.
Their dedication to reducing waste is reflected in their unique knit manufacturing process, a deviation from traditional cutting and sewing, resulting in both durability and style.
In 2021, they proudly introduced their recycling program, taking a proactive step to minimize their environmental impact and keep used Rothy’s products out of landfills.
Price: From $119
Ethics: Recycled materials, low-waste production, recycled packaging, fair-trade, LEED & TRUE Platinum Certification
Size Range: Women’s US 5-13 | Men’s US 3.5-11.5
Location/Shipping: USA, ships to Australia, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand
Most Ethical & Sustainable Sneaker from Rothy´s:
16. Native Shoes
Native, one the most beloved sustainable sneaker brands, makes it easy for “all to live lightly”.
Their 100% animal-free footwear collection includes fantastic ethical sneakers made with repurposed algae using ‘Rise by Bloom’ technology.
The result? Cool-to-look-at, lightweight, washable, sock-absorbent styles that are also odor resistant! Plus, these affordable sustainable sneakers come in an array of color options – from light pink to black.
Price: From $50+
Ethics: SBTi-approved, bio-based material
Size Range: Women’s US 5-11 | Men’s US 3-13
Location/Shipping: USA
Best Affordable Sustainable Sneakers from Native Shoes:
17. Vivobarefoot
Aside from being one of the most ethical sneaker brands on the eco market, Vivobarefoot is also a fantastic e-destination for everyone who prefers barefoot shoes for healthy running and hiking.
The B Corp puts much emphasis on monitoring their entire supply chain while using recycled all-weather mesh textiles across their collections.
You can also find options made with merino wool and wild hide leather that are wide enough to allow for natural stability.
Of course, plenty of vegan options are also equipped with the brand’s signature waterproof technology and water-resistant treatment uppers with a hi-tech seal.
Price: From $119+
Ethics: Sustainable & Recycled Materials, fair labor, B-Certified Corporation, Livebarefoot Fund
Size Range: Women’s US 5.5-11.5 | Men’s US 7-15 Location/Shipping: USA, ships worldwide
Best Barefoot Sneakers from Vivobarefoot:
18. Etiko
Looking for ethical sneaker brands from Australia? Look no further than Etiko. Their organic cotton 100% vegan sneakers are cruelty-free and fair trade, meaning they pay their workers a fair, living wage for their work.
From high-top sneakers like Converse with super comfy built-in arch support to wear-me-everywhere low-tops with soles made of natural latex rubber tapped from a rubber tree, there is something for everyone!
What’s more, the brand uses non-toxic dyes and glues and ships every order in recycled post-consumer waste cardboard boxes.
Price: From $90+
Discount Code: ETIKOSKL15 for 15% off
Ethics: Fair Trade, vegan, cruelty-free, non-toxic dyes, sustainable packaging
Size Range: Women’s 5.5-15.5 | Mens US 4-14
Location/Shipping: Australia, ships worldwide
Best Cruelty-Free Sneakers from Etiko:
19. Oliver Cabell
Maximalists, rejoice! Oliver Cabell’s ethical sneakers are “ handcrafted by someone who truly lives and breathes the shoemaking process” with the help of old-school shoe-making techniques.
Most styles have a distressed twist coupled with buttery Italian calfskin leather and margom outsoles.
Other options are even louder with all-over animal prints and subtle bursts of color. No worries, many vegan ethical sneaker options range from all-white to sparkly.
Price: From $200+
Ethics: Ethical leather & vegan options, made in Italy by hand, fair working conditions
Size Range: Women’s US 4-14 | Men’s US 5-15
Location/Shipping: Italy, ships worldwide
Best Ethical Leather Sneakers from Oliver Cabell:
20. Ethletic
Are you on a quest to find the most ethical sneaker brands? Ethletic deserves a place on your shopping list.
All pairs are made from fairtrade-certified organic cotton and are 100% cruelty-free. On top of all that, their designs are absolutely gorgeous.
They have partly padded canvas boots as well as skateboard-style sneakers in tartan or tweed.
Now, if you prefer something more classic, you can have a look at their eight different collections to choose your new shoemate.
Price: From €99,90
Ethics: PETA Vegan Approved, Fair Trade Award Winners
Size Range: Women’s & Men’s EU 36-46
Location/Shipping: Germany, ships worldwide
Best Sustainable Sneakers from Ethletic:
21. Flamingos Life
Flamingos Life creates ethical fair trade sneakers made of recycled plastic bottles, organic cotton, and natural rubber as well as corn waste and bamboo.
Each pair captures the zeitgeist of the 70s, 80s, or 90s – which we absolutely adore. Now, If you are a fan of hi-tops, they’ve got you covered too!
Even cooler: for each pair of retro 90s purchased, Flamingos Life donates to Aqua, an NGO that brings clean water to remote areas of Uganda.
Stylish, retro, and incredibly sustainable, what more can we ask from the perfect pair of ethical sneakers?
Price: From $170+
Ethics: Recycled And Sustainable Materials, Fair Trade, Donations, Eco-Friendly Packaging
Size Range: Women’s US 4-9.5 | Men’s US 7-12
Location/Shipping: Spain, ships worldwide
22. Veja
Veja needs no introductions! The inherently cool recycled sneakers brand produces sustainable shoes by giving a new life to waste and turning them into higher quality and more valuable products.
The brand has created their own innovative B-Mesh fabric that is light, breathable, and waterproof. On top of that, the colorways and slew of different silhouettes will certainly match your aesthetic with ease.
From all-white low tops to bold high-tops and ethical alternatives to new balance silhouettes, the options are endless.
Price: From $145+
Ethics: Vegan options, B Corporation Certified, fair-trade
Size Range: Women’s US 4-10 | Men’s US 9-12.5
Location/Shipping: Brazil, ships worldwide
23. Womsh
Susty sneakers with a trend-driven edge? Yes, please! Just like all our favorite sustainable sneaker brands, Womsh creates footwear that respects the planet and those who live on it.
The company uses a mixture of bio-based and certified-origin materials which include AppleSkin for their vegan collection.
Some options have an ultra-stylish, sporty vibe that rests on a personalized exclusive outsole while others have a sleek, street style-approved elevated colored heel. In fact, they have more than 30 different styles to choose from!
Price: From $190+
Ethics: Sustainable leather & materials, Made In Italy, carbon offsetting, recycling, eco packaging, renewable energy
Size Range: Women’s 4.5-9.5 | Men’s US 7-12
Location/Shipping: Italy, ships worldwide
24. Sole Rebels
Expertly artisan hand-crafted inside their own community in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Sole Rebels’ ethical sneakers are lovingly designed for maximum performance, comfort, and style.
In addition to recycled car tire soles, all styles incorporate as many recycled and sustainable materials as possible.
Their range includes flats, lace-ups, slip-ons, boots, and more. Granted, these are not your typical monochromatic sneakers.
Price: From $149.99+
Ethics: Ethically Made By Hand In Africa, Responsible And Recycled Materials, Community Empowerment
Size Range: Women’s US 4-15 | Men’s US 6-17
Location/Shipping: Ethiopia, ships worldwide
25. Po-Zu
Po-Zu is an award-winning sustainable footwear brand known for its ethical production processes and innovative design.
Currently, they have four different shoe styles –all handmade in Portugal – featuring a removable, highly comfortable all natural 100% cork footbed.
The brand uses recycled outsoles and VEGEA, a 100% vegan, solvent-free, animal-friendly material manufactured in Italy.
Price: From $140.05+
Ethics: Handmade, recycled & sustainable materials, fair labor
Size Range: Women’s US 5-9 | Men’s US 7-13
Location/Shipping: UK, ships worldwide
This post is about the best sustainable sneakers!
All the aforementioned ethical sneaker brands are here to outfit us with affordable, sustainable sneakers that are stylish, eco-friendly, and built to last for many seasons.
From biodegradable sneakers to wear-me-everywhere recycled sneakers, all you have to do is pick the style and color that matches your aesthetic!
If you liked this post on the best ethical sneaker brands, you’ll definitely want to check out these other posts from SKL:
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