Walking on the Green Side: The Best Sustainable Shoe Brands for Conscious Consumers

Sustainable fashion has become increasingly important as people become more aware of the impact of their consumption on the environment. It's no longer enough to simply buy clothes and shoes based on their style or affordability. Consumers are now looking for eco-friendly and sustainable options that align with their values.

One area that has seen a significant shift toward sustainability is the shoe industry. Sustainable shoe brands are emerging as conscious consumers seek to reduce their carbon footprint and make more sustainable choices. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best sustainable shoe brands that are not only eco-friendly but also stylish and comfortable.

AllBirds

AllBirds is a San Francisco-based sustainable shoe brand that has been producing eco-friendly shoes since 2014. The brand is known for its use of certified fair-trade wool and recycled plastic bottles in its shoe production. Each pair of AllBirds shoes contains one recycled plastic bottle, making them both sustainable and stylish.

In addition to using eco-friendly materials, AllBirds is also committed to sustainable packaging. The brand uses shoeboxes made from 90% post-consumer recycled cardboard. This commitment to sustainability has made AllBirds a leader in the sustainable shoe industry.

Veja

Veja is a Parisian sustainable shoe brand that has been creating durable and stylish sneakers from recycled plastic bottles and natural rubber found in the Amazon for almost two decades. The brand prioritizes fair-trade materials throughout its production process, creating sustainable practices for both the environment and all of the workers involved.

Veja's vegan sneakers come in all styles and shapes, making them a versatile choice for any wardrobe. By choosing Veja, consumers can feel confident that they are making a sustainable and ethical fashion choice.

Cariuma

Cariuma is a Brazilian-owned sustainable shoe brand that focuses on using raw materials such as bamboo, organic cotton, sugarcane, and recycled PET to create shoes that are free from toxic chemicals and have a smaller environmental footprint. The brand reports that 65% of its products are 100% vegan, making them a great option for conscious consumers.

Cariuma is also committed to a reforestation effort in Brazil, planting two trees for every pair of sneakers sold. By choosing Cariuma, consumers can make a sustainable fashion choice while also supporting a brand that is actively working towards reducing its environmental impact.

Rothy's

Rothy's is a sustainable shoe brand that uses a signature thread made from plastic bottles and marine plastic to create its shoes. The brand has removed more than 100 tons of plastic from waterways for use in its products. Rothy's is also committed to keeping its shoes out of landfills by creating a unique recycling project. By dropping off any pair of Rothy's shoes (in any condition) at any Rothy's store, customers can receive $20 to purchase a new pair on the same day.

Reebok

Reebok is a well-known sneaker brand that has recently entered the sustainability market by producing a vegan leather sneaker and a running shoe under their Cotton + Corn collection. The brand is committed to cleaning up the entire life cycle of shoemaking, from what shoes are made of to where they end up.

Reebok is prioritizing a focus on a shoe's entire life cycle, starting first with production and use and then through post-use by taking a deeper look into using natural materials that are safer for the planet. By choosing Reebok's sustainable shoe options, consumers can feel good about their purchase, knowing that they are making a more sustainable choice.

Vans

Vans is a popular shoe brand that's now offering sustainable options with its Recycled Shoes collection. The brand's most popular styles are part of this selection, which means customers can still wear their favorite pair of Vans but now in a recycled version. The Recycled Shoes collection uses a combination of recycled rubber and other sustainable materials, such as organic cotton and hemp, to create shoes that are both stylish and eco-friendly.

In addition to offering sustainable shoe options, Vans also has a shoe donation program in specific cities all over the world. Customers can bring in their gently used shoes to a participating Vans store and receive a discount for a future purchase. The program is aimed at reducing the number of shoes that end up in landfills, making it a great option for those looking to make a sustainable fashion choice.

Salt + Umber

Salt + Umber is a newer sustainable shoe brand that offers handcrafted sandals that are perfect for the upcoming spring and summer seasons. The brand's sandals are eye-catching and made from eco-friendly materials such as vegetable-tanned leather and recycled rubber.

Salt + Umber is also an advocate for female entrepreneurship and empowerment with its "Story Behind Every Pair" program. The program aims to provide workers with a sense of economic freedom and women with a sense of empowerment and belonging in the workforce. By choosing Salt + Umber, customers can make a sustainable fashion choice while also supporting a brand that is committed to making a positive impact.

Final Thoughts

Sustainable shoe brands are on the rise, offering eco-friendly options for conscious consumers who want to make a difference. Brands like AllBirds, Veja, Cariuma, Rothy's, Reebok, Vans, and Salt + Umber are just a few examples of brands that are leading the way in sustainable shoe production.

By choosing to buy shoes from these sustainable brands, consumers can make a positive impact on the environment while still maintaining their sense of style. It's time to step into a brighter, more sustainable future with the best eco-friendly shoe brands!