If you like to dress well, shoes are probably a top priority for you. As fashion designer Christian Louboutin said, “A shoe is not just a design but a part of your body language. The way you walk is dictated by the shoes you wear. But do your shoes reflect your planet-friendly values? How durable are your shoes?
The good news is that some brands design shoes with sustainability in mind. Much of this progressive design is taking place in the athletic shoe industry, which continues to grow and shows no signs of slowing down. More … than 23 billion pairs of sneakers are produced every year. The world population is 7.8 billion, or almost three pairs of sneakers per person.
Corn, 300 million pairs of sneakers are also thrown away every year, and a pair takes at least 30 years to completely break down; many will sit in landfills for centuries. If you can’t fix your shoes and are ready to buy new ones, we have a list of casual shoes with much improved environmental footprints for your consideration.
While no pair of shoes is entirely eco-friendly, information about what they are made of, who makes them, and a transparent supply chain can help sustainable shoppers find the right products. We’ve found six durable sports and leisure shoes you can buy without compromising on style and performance.
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1. Adidas Superstar Vegan Shoe
Adidas was not an enduring fashion brand for most of its history. But it has come a long way since its advent and is way ahead of other major sportswear brands. The brand recently received Ethical Consumer’s highest rating for environmental reporting in 2020. Adidas has pledged to reduce its own greenhouse gas emissions and those of its suppliers by 30% by 2030 and to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
Adidas tries to help the environment in two ways: by using plastic waste to make shoes and by eliminating the use of animal products. the Adidas Superstar Vegan shoe for men and women is made without using animal products. Its smooth synthetic upper includes recycled materials. Style wise, the pair has that vintage look and feel that you see in all “Superstar” sneakers. The shoe is available in black and white.
2. VIVAIA Valencia Apartments
VIVAIAAA presents itself as a eco-responsible shoe brand for women. The company transforms plastic bottles into shoes using “3D Tech Knit” technology that leaves no waste. The insoles of all VIVAIA shoes are made of natural latex foam and the outsoles are made of carbon-free rubber. The company also uses 90% recycled cardboard for packaging and strives to provide fair and healthy working conditions for factory employees.
Each pair of Apartments VIVAIA Valencia is made from six recycled plastic bottles and features a thick natural latex insole and carbon-free rubber outsole. With an ultra-soft upper, these pointed toe flats are comfortable, stylish and great for any occasion. Presented here in beige and red, the ballerinas are available in five other color combinations.
3. Mahabis Curved Animal Slipper
Mahabis is a footwear brand whose mission is to combine style and durability. Mahabis manufactures its slippers in natural Corriedale and Romney wool. All their suppliers audited on their social and ethical performance by Sedex and follow the principles of Ethical Trade Initiative. The company also offers a recycling program. They come to your door to collect your used Mahabis and recycle the shoes into a new product. You can earn rewards for your participation in the recycling program.
The Mahabi Curve Animal Slipper is a fun casual slipper for men and women. The upper is made of high quality pony leather (cowhide) and the lining is EcoCert certified organic wool. It comes in two different animal prints and is a great choice if you’re looking for a casual, comfortable shoe for lounging around the house or running an errand.
4. Allbirds Female Skippers
all the birds plans to eliminate the carbon footprint of its products and become one of the first net-zero fashion brands. For now, you can examine the carbon footprint of any product in their catalog, and Allbirds offsets its remaining CO2 emissions. The company uses natural wool for its products, as well as recycled bottles, castor oil, recycled cardboard and other new materials.
the Women’s Tree Skippers are made from responsibly sourced eucalyptus fibers and other renewable materials. Cushioned, flexible and breathable, the silky boat shoe is ideal for warmer days. It is available in five colors and is perfect for casual and semi-formal occasions.
5. Nothing new, low top sneakers for men
Nothing New combines durability and style. The company says it wants to make products that not only feel good, but also look good. They use 100% post-consumer recycled plastic for their products, as well as conflict-free metal alloys, recycled rubber, recycled cotton, and recycled fishing nets. The company also has a carbon neutral commitment to invest in carbon offsets that make it carbon neutral each year.
Every pair of Nothing New Men’s low-top sneakers is made from 5.6 recycled plastic bottles and saves 160 gallons of water. We have a pair and found them to be durable and comfortable, although we did note that they tend to run a bit narrower than other shoes. These classic canvas low top shoes are available in 16 colors and 10 sizes and are ideal for casual occasions.
6. Women’s Nike Space Hippie 04
Like Adidas, Nike didn’t start out as an enduring brand. Until a few years ago, it was criticized for using sweatshops and unethical manufacturing practices. Recently, Nike has taken steps to reduce its negative impact on the environment, including adopting sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials, such as organic or recycled cotton and polyester. It has also implemented water reduction initiatives in its supply chain.
the Nike Space Hippie 04 is one of Nike’s eco-friendly products. At least 25% of the shoe is made from recycled materials, including recycled plastic bottles, yarn scraps and used T-shirts. Nike claims the Space Hippie has the lowest carbon footprint in its catalog. This women’s shoe has a sporty look and its lightweight silhouette makes it ideal for walking, jogging and exercising.
Put some green in your step
Going green is not a destination. It’s a journey. No brand is currently 100% sustainable, but these companies strive to reduce their environmental impact and give back to planet Earth as much as possible. By buying from these shoe brands, you are voting for sustainable footwear and encouraging the manufacturers to keep doing the right thing.
Looking for a more durable style? Discover 5 sustainable fashion lines for women and 11 sustainable clothing brands for men.