Unfortunately, shoe production is not exempt from the sweatshop labor and hazardous production processes involved in fashion manufacturing. Fortunately, as consumers, we have the power to use our voices and speak up. Through our purchases, we can make a positive difference for the people who make our shoes, and we can shop at brands that ensure their workers have fair wages and environmentally safe working conditions.
Why consider sustainable shoes?
Sustainable shoes minimize environmental impact by using eco-friendly materials, responsible production methods, and reducing resource consumption and waste. Sustainable shoe brands also address ethical concerns in their manufacturing processes, with many sustainable brands ensuring fair labor practices throughout their supply chains. Additionally, sustainable shoes often prioritize health, using natural and non-toxic materials that are better for both us and the environment. With better quality materials also comes better durability and longevity, meaning fewer replacements are needed helping you save money and reduce waste. By going sustainable when it comes to our footwear, we can support innovation in the fashion industry, while driving positive change towards a more environmentally and socially responsible future.
Our criteria:
Our editors have worn, researched, and corresponded with sustainable shoe brands for years. We’ve selected 15 of our favorite brands based on the rigorous qualifications outlined below. We update this list frequently with new faves.
- ETHICAL PRACTICES | These sustainable shoe brands follow strict ethical practices in their processes, including ensuring fair wages and safe working environments. We’ve prioritized shoe brands that give back to their communities and offer inclusive sizing in their footwear.
- ECO-FRIENDLY/SUSTAINABLE | Each of these shoe brands sustainably produces their footwear, including using all natural materials and recycled/upcycled materials where possible.
- COMFORTABLE | We’ve personally tested these shoe brands and can confirm they are comfy and supportive for all day wear.
- AFFORDABLE | Sustainable shoes can be an investment, and we’ve made sure to include our favorite options at more affordable price points on this list.
Also, if you’re looking for more sustainable clothing options, check out these guides for our favorite fair trade clothing, responsibly-made handbags, and ethically made jewelry.
Best Overall | Best Active | Most Stylish | Most Affordable
1. Alohas
Sizes Available | Womens 5–14
Price: $110–$400
For made-to-order Spanish-made designs, ALOHAS is our number one stop. With their signature styles like their patchwork and color block knee-high boots, extra tall platform lug loafers, strappy ballet flats, and even some vegan options, you can be sure that these gorgeous shoes will help you stand out (pun intended) in a crowd. We adore our Alohas platform sandals and wear them with just about everything in warmer months. Best of all? Zero break-in time.
Alohas Review | “I am so obsessed with this pair of ballet flats! I love love love the burgundy color!!! It is beautiful and it goes well with so many different outfits and really comfortable! This is my second pair from Alohas and they never disappoint :)” – Emilia C. (See all reviews)
2. Allbirds
Sizes Available | Womens 5–11; Men’s 8–14
Price Range | $98–$145
Allbirds started with one simple mission: to make shoes in a better way, using natural materials. The brand’s shoes are made from sustainable materials, like FSC-certified Tencel lyocell and Merino wool—the latter of which ensures environmental and animal-friendly practices. The woven Tree Dasher ranks high on our list of favorite shoes for all-day, everyday wear, and love that the brand is expanding its lineup into casual sneakers and flats too. The Wool Runner fluffs are next on our list—they’re so cute and cozy for winter. We honestly can’t get enough of this brand (read our Allbirds review) and apparently neither can you— Allbirds was named best shoe in our 2023 reader survey!
Editor’s Review | “Love the color options and how breathable the “tree” fabric is. These shoes are versatile and functional for everyday activities.” – Emily McGowan, Editorial Director at The Good Trade (Read our full review)
3. Reformation
Sizes Available | Womens 5–11
Price Range | $128–$598
Behind every trend is a Reformation original — at least it feels that way! Ref’s shoes are always in style, and stay chic well into the next fashion season (and the next, and the next). When we want to stand out (no pun intended) we choose Ref. Our founder can attest to chic wears that involve little to no break in time — her personal favorite are the Nylah knee highs. Their shoes are made using materials from Leather Working Group gold and silver audited tanneries, and made in a fair wage environment. We particularly love that this brand is climate-neutral with an aim to be climate-positive by 2025.
4. The Root Collective
Sizes Available | Womens 5–11
Price Range | $168–$188
In an often mass-produced world, The Root Collective reminds us to think about who and where our shoes are made. Working with shoemakers and textile-weavers in Guatemala, the brand believes ethically made shoes can change lives and start a culture of kindness. Plus, you can meet the makers who’ve consented to sharing their stories! We’re big fans of these fun, colorful footwear options. The easy zip-up boots are great for pulling your look together with minimal effort—just watch out if you’re wearing them in slippery conditions since they don’t have tread.
Root Collective Review | “LOVE this shoe! So comfortable – can wear it all day with no issues. Loved it so much, I bought it again in a different color!” – Kerry L. (See all reviews)
5. Sézane
Sizes Available | Womens 5–11
Price Range | $120–$535
The quintessential Parisian brand Sézane designs stunning shoes for the modern woman. The European label has forged strong partnerships in many countries, always focusing on where and how its shoes are made. The team advocates for safe working conditions for their artisans and uses more than 75 percent eco-friendly materials in production. Can you say conscious and chic?
6. Cariuma
Sizes Available | Womens 5–13
Price Range | $85–$159
For some of the most sustainable and stylish sneakers on the planet, Cariuma is it. The brand’s materials include GOTS-certified organic cotton, bamboo, recycled PET, and Leather Working Group-certified leather and suede, dyed with low-impact inks. Hands down the shoe of choice if you’re team sneakers-without-socks. We love that Cariuma sneakers are comfy and breathable (so no funky feet in our experience); they’re well worth the purchase especially if you look out for sales.
Cariuma Review | “I love the way these shoes fit. The insole is super comfy and the style goes with everything. I also love the fact that they are sustainably made. I’m sold on these shoes and looking forward to my next pair!” – Amy (See all reviews)
7. VIVAIA
Sizes Available | Womens 5–13
Price Range | $97–$199
Founded in 2020, global footwear brand VIVAIA prioritizes eco-friendly comfort and style. With a presence in over 61 countries, the brand partners with global suppliers to craft footwear using recycled and sustainable materials. VIVAIA’s commitment to sustainability extends throughout its operations, from minimizing environmental impact to ensuring fair working conditions in its Chinese factory. By utilizing innovative technologies like 3D knit and eco-friendly materials, VIVAIA aims to reduce waste and create fashion-forward, durable footwear that aligns with its mission of sustainability and style for all.
VIVAIA Review | “I have an extra arched foot, and this product feels like it’s just for me! Especially as an Asian Woman, it’s harder to find shoes with proper arch support but out of all the different brands and products i’ve tried, this one feels amazing!” – Euna J. (See all reviews)
8. Zou Xou
Sizes Available | Womens 4.5–11.5 (see sizing details)
Price Range | $165–$365
Zou Xou is the brand for those who love comfort and style. Inspired by classics like pumps, slip-ons, and mules, Zou Xou works with Argentinian artisans to make timeless shoes in small batches, using traditional techniques and quality materials. Don’t see your shoe size? You can invest in a made-to-order option! This way, Zou Xou cuts down on waste, and you’re left with shoes that will last.
Zou Xou Review | “Fit and were comfortable immediately. Beautiful.” – Lauren B. (See all reviews)
9. Nisolo
Sizes Available | Womens 5–11; Mens 8–13
Price Range | $100–$250
Nisolo collaborates with local artisans in Peru to create its stunning shoe collection. The brand boasts a gorgeous line of adult-sized sneakers, heeled boots, mules, and sandals. We love these beautifully designed, well-made shoes that offer 100 percent living wages and zero net carbon. As most shoes in Nisolo’s collection are leather, they will require a bit of break-in. We recommend wearing them around the house at first and with a pair of socks before spending a full day in the mules or clogs. Read our full Nisolo shoe review here.
Editor’s Review | “With sock-like comfort and a slip-on construction, they are truly a go-to shoe option for effortless style and guaranteed comfort (with no break-in needed).” – Kayti Christian, former Managing Editor at The Good Trade (Read our full review)
10. Thousand Fell
Sizes Available | Womens 5–10; Mens 8–13
Price Range | $125—$135 (+$20 recycling deposit)
Designed in New York and made in a family-owned factory in Brazil, Thousand Fell sneakers are made to last and built to recycle. No, really. These shoes are crafted from recycled plastic and rubber as well as natural materials like palm leaf fibers and coconut husks. As 97 percent of shoes end up in landfills, the team takes your sneakers back once you’re ready, refurbishes them, and gives them to someone in need—and gives you a $20 credit.
Thousand Fell Review | “This is now my second pair of ThousandFells, and I love them still. A worthwhile purchase, and it’s great that they can be recycled with their SuperCircle program.” – Anonymous (See all reviews)
11. Veja
Sizes Available | Womens 4–11; Mens 7–12.5
Price Range | $120–$225
Veja is a leader in eco and ethical production for street shoes — and they recently launched running shoes as well! The brand buys organic and ecologically friendly materials from fair trade family farms in Brazil and the Amazon and partners with a charity that employs marginalized people as a way to reintegrate into society. During production, Veja prioritizes low to zero-waste practices, low-energy production, and recyclable packaging. Our editor wears her Vejas constantly (not as much as Allbirds, but close!) because they’re walkable and pair nicely with dresses, jeans, and shorts. These shoes are great for wider feet, and we’re big fans of the retro suede styles.
Veja Review | “Exceptional comfort and perfect neutral. I am very pleased. The shoe reminds me very much of a pair of dunks but in comparison they are very soft and mold well to my feet.” – Melissa AR (See all reviews)
12. ABLE
Sizes Available | Womens 5–11
Price Range | $98–$158
The minimalistic design of ABLE’s shoes makes these a classic addition to your sustainable wardrobe. The color palette for this footwear collection features elegant basics in neutral tones, and the seasonal arrivals are bright and cheerful! Our editor has had a pair of zip-up boots from ABLE for years, and loves that they offer a 3” heel but don’t sacrifice on support (she’s even dashed through the Chicago airport in them without an issue). If you don’t get the right shoe size the first time, ABLE offers unlimited free returns and exchanges. This certified B Corp is dedicated to creating long-term economic impact by employing women artisans worldwide.
ABLE Review | “I am a teacher, and I wore these to work all of the time in the summer/early fall. I walked multiple miles in them every day, and my feet were barely sore. I often receive many compliments on them. They are high quality, and I would definitely recommend them.” – Anonymous (See all reviews)
13. Koio
Sizes Available | Womens 5–11; Mens 7–16 (wide fit available)
Price: $155–$395
For a luxurious take on your favorite low-top sneakers, go for Koio. Carefully designed and made to last, these shoes are handcrafted in Italy from LWG certified leather, and ethically sourced and recycled rubber. Rave reviews show these sneakers are as comfy as they are gorgeous — ready to wear with no need to break in! We also love the timeless Chelsea and combat-style boots, all ethically made with sustainable materials.
Koio Review | “This is a great pair of sneakers. They have a classic look that won’t go out of style. My first time wearing them was for a day out around town and I was amazed how there was no break in period. These will be a summer staple in my wardrobe. Highly recommend!” – Jonathan M. (See all reviews)
14. Thesus Outdoors
Sizes Available | Womens 6–12; Mens 6.5–12.5
Price Range | $185–$349 CAD
Thesus Outdoors makes wearable, fashionable footwear — with one of the most thoughtful supply chains around. Small-scale producers and artisans craft its popular waterproof rainboots using 100 percent natural and certified fair trade rubber. While we don’t recommend these boots for longer treks in the wilderness, The Weekender is the perfect companion for shorter hikes and time spent outdoors!
Thesus Outdoors Review | “Best purchase I’ve possibly ever made. I love these shoes so much. The colour is beautiful and they are terrific quality. So comfy. I size up one and it’s been perfect with a bit thicker socks.” – Lauren B. (See all reviews)
15. Native Shoes
Sizes Available | Womens 5–11; Mens 3–13
Price Range | $30–$100
Native makes affordable shoes that the whole family will love! With styles for adults and kids, these vegan shoes are made using extraordinary cruelty-free materials — the Bloom material is especially cool since it’s made from repurposed algae that’s been necessarily cleaned up from bodies of water. We love Native for its affordability and stretchiness — the shoes are super light and easy to wash if you’re spending time in sand or mud. (Although, for the boots, you’ll want to make sure to break them in a little slowly before wearing them on a long hike!) Whether you’re looking for insulated hiking boots for men, or teeny tiny summer sandals for the little ones (they make fits for 12-24 month-olds!), Native has the footwear you need to tread lightly.
Native Shoes Review | “Great shoes and the durability is unquestionable! My son wore his last pair nearly the entire time for a complete year. Before he received this new pair, we found ourselves in Iceland hiking to see the active volcano. As he usually does my son had his natives on and forgot to change into his hiking shoes. Needless to say his natives held up and made the trek with him. After a year of wear and tear and a good hike, these shoes were still standing strong. We love them” – Kresta J. (See all reviews)
Featured image via Sézane
