Top 7 Sustainable Shoe Brands for Eco-Friendly Comfort & Style
Have you been searching for the best sustainable shoes in a market full of fast fashion? I’ve curated a list of seven eco-friendly footwear brands that prioritize ethical production, non-toxic materials, and long-lasting design. These companies are taking real steps to reduce their carbon footprint while bringing us high-quality shoes we can actually feel good about wearing.
When I began my journey towards a more sustainable lifestyle I didn’t immediately think about footwear. Then I saw a statistic on SGS that the energy, from creation through disposal, of one pair of sneakers equated keeping a light bulb (100-watt) on for an entire week! And given the number of shoes in existence that adds up to an enormous amount of energy and resources going towards our footwear. Every small, conscious decision we make matters and adds up over time, which is why I researched so many different sustainable footwear options, and I’ve put my favorites together on this list for you!
Here Are Our 7 FAVORITE Eco-Friendly Footwear Options
Let’s dive into the shoes that support a greener future—one conscious step at a time.
1. Earth Runners – Barefoot Sandals for Natural Movement
If you’re new to the barefoot shoe movement, let me introduce you to Earth Runners—my top pick for sustainable footwear. These minimalist sandals are designed to let your feet move exactly as nature intended. While they may look simple, they are unbelievably comfortable.
I’ve worn mine hiking, gardening, and walking on the beach, and they’ve never left me with sore feet. The flexible sole and zero-drop design allow natural movement without crunching your toes or over-supporting your arches. The innovative, adjustable straps hold securely without forcing your toes to grip—something you’ll notice immediately once you pay attention to how your feet move in typical sandals!
Earth Runners keeps things sustainable too. They sell replacement straps to extend the life of your sandals, and their durable construction means you’ll wear them for years instead of months. I love that this eco-friendly brand focuses on longevity—less waste, fewer replacements and more connection to the earth beneath your feet.
I personally wear their Circadian sandals and adore the minimalist black straps (though they have lots of fun color options).
2. Indosole – Upcycled Tire Soles
Indosole took on one of the biggest sources of waste—old tires—and transformed it into stylish, waterproof, all-terrain slides. As a certified B Corporation, they prioritize ethical production and eco-friendly materials. I’ve worn their slides for years, and they still show barely any wear. If you want durable, planet-friendly shoes that can handle daily life, Indosole is a fantastic choice.
3. Thesus Outdoors – Vegan Hiking Boots
These are some of the cutest hiking boots I’ve ever seen—and I even wore them for my mountain wedding ceremony! Thesus Outdoors crafts vegan footwear from >95% natural and recycled materials, including recycled rubber and marine plastic collected by fishermen. The quality and comfort are excellent, and they come in beautiful colorways.
4. Nothing New – Sneakers Made from Upcycled Materials
Nothing New lives up to its name. Their sneakers use upcycled and sustainable materials, eco-leather, and plant-based embellishments. Even the soles are made for longevity. They’ve ditched heavy glues and rely on stitch construction, which means fewer toxins and a sturdier build. Stylish, responsible, and refreshingly transparent.
5. Allbirds – Everyday Eco Sneakers
Allbirds has become almost synonymous with sustainable footwear. Their Tree Runners use FSC-certified TENCEL™ Lyocell, sugarcane-based green EVA, castor-bean oil insoles, and recycled plastic bottles. They’re even machine washable, which extends their lifespan and keeps them fresh. I also love their Canvas Pipers, made with organic cotton—simple, breathable, and perfect for everyday wear.
6. REI Used Shoe Rack – Secondhand Wins
Sustainability sometimes means buying less. After my pregnancy, I needed new hiking boots (because my feet grew a whole size haha!) and I discovered that REI has a used-gear section—including shoes! I found the perfect pair at a discount and gave them a second life. Choosing secondhand shoes helps reduce waste and makes eco-friendly shopping affordable.
7. Going Barefoot – The Ultimate Minimalist Choice
I know this isn’t a shoe brand, but I think going barefoot deserves to be highlighted. What’s more sustainable than no new shoes at all? Going barefoot (where safe and appropriate) reconnects you with the earth and cuts consumption completely. Sometimes the greenest choice is simply to recognize we already have what we need.
Quick Tips for Choosing Sustainable Shoes
Look for natural or recycled materials like cork, organic cotton, natural rubber, and hemp.
Choose durable designs that can be repaired or resoled.
Check for certifications like B Corp, Fair Trade, or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
Buy secondhand when possible.
Support brands that value transparency in their materials and labor practices.
Final Thoughts
Each of these brands offers something unique, but Earth Runners takes the top spot for me because they combine function, sustainability, and foot health better than any other brand I’ve tried. Whether you’re looking for barefoot sandals, vegan boots, or recycled sneakers, these companies make it easy to walk lighter on the planet—literally.
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