5 Sustainable Sneakers Brands for Style and Ethics
Our carbon footprints are unfortunately competing with our footsteps wearing a different pair of sneakers every day. Then, there’s this myth around sustainable shoes being expensive. So, I’d like to challenge both.
Finding sneakers that are stylish, comfortable, sustainable, and reasonably priced has become quite easy over the last few years. I've laced up my eco-friendly kicks to bring you five of these sustainable sneaker brands and their most popular models.
1. Veja
Veja is probably one of the most famous options out there. I’m sure you’ve seen or heard of Veja, but did you know that their sustainability game is on another level.
Founded in France, Veja has been mastering the art of combining minimalist aesthetics with ethical production since 2004. Their sneakers are made in Brazil, and they disclose all their resources and the materials used. Made of organic cotton, wild rubber as well as recycled materials, their sneakers feature an absolutely environmentally-friendly production.
On top, Veja pays farmers 30-100% more than the world market price. They refuse to lower the prices of their sneakers at the expense of their employees. So, besides the environment, they also care deeply for human rights and fair working conditions.
Star Model: Esplar
A standout in their collection, the Esplar model is one of the best-sellers. It is made from bovine leather that comes from farms in Uruguay and it is tanned ecologically in Brazil.
Esplar’s classic silhouette pairs perfectly with everything from jeans to tailored trousers. Lately, I’ve been particularly fond of the shiny additions to the collection.
Price: 150$
Credit: Veja
2. Allbirds
Founded in 2016 by former rugby player Tim Brown and engineer Joey Zwillinger in New Zealand, Allbirds has quickly become a leader in the sustainable footwear industry. The duo had a vision to create stylish, comfortable, and eco-friendly shoes.
Their vision came to life with the use of natural and renewable materials, such as eucalyptus tree fibers and SweetFoam, made from renewable sugarcane.
The brand has earned several sustainability certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and B Corporation certifications.
Star Model: Tree Runners
The bestseller from Allbirds has been Tree Runners for some time. Soft, breathable, and ridiculously comfortable, these sneakers are perfect for casual days or long walks—and they come in many different colors. A surprising bonus: they’re also machine washable!
Price: 120$
Credit: Allbirds
3. Flamingos Life
Flamingos Life was founded in 2017 in Spain with a similar vision like the previous brands. The founders wanted to prove that fashion and environmental responsibility could coexist, and they did so in quite a short amount of time.
They use eco-friendly materials like corn waste, organic cotton, and bamboo, as well as environmentally friendly dyes and non-toxic glues. Additionally they have the vegan certification as no animal products are sourced for their sneakers.
With a strong commitment to sustainability, Flamingos Life also stands out with their retro aesthetics, so maybe they can replace your Adidas Sambas.
Star Model: Burela
Burela is probably their all-time bestseller delivering vintage aesthetics with a modern conscience. Think 80s nostalgia, but make it ethical. These come in many colors, from red to silver.
Price: 179$
Credit: Flamingos Life
4. Native Shoes
Founded in 2009 in Canada, Native Shoes set out to revolutionize footwear by creating lightweight, durable, and sustainable sneakers. The revolution gained momentum when they began using innovative materials, such as Sugarlite, a sugarcane-derived EVA reducing environmental impact.
They also offer a unique recycling program called "The Remix Project." The worn-out shoes are repurposed into playgrounds, contributing to local communities.
Native Shoes has earned multiple certifications thanks to their commitment to sustainability, such as the Cradle to Cradle Certified mark for their use of environmentally safe and recyclable materials.
Star Model: Jefferson Sugarlite™
Now, when I said innovative, I really meant it. The bestseller from Native Shoes is definitely the Jefferson model. The slip-on sneakers come in a modern form and with key features such as being hand-washable and odor-resistant.
Price: 90$
Credit: Native Shoes
5. Cariuma
Last but not least, Cariuma was founded in 2018 by two Brazilian entrepreneurs, Fernando and David. Combining comfort, performance, and environmental responsibility, they crafted a line of sneakers made from organic cotton, bamboo, and ethically sourced rubber. The company is also known for its commitment to reforestation. For every pair of sneakers sold, they plant two trees in the Brazilian rainforest.
Cariuma has earned several sustainability certifications, including the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, thanks to their ethical materials.
Star Model: OCA Low
The bestseller from Cariuma is undoubtedly the OCA low. This low-top sneaker is a timeless classic with a sustainable twist. For some reason, it gives me total Avril Lavigne vibes. Available in many colors and materials, the OCA Low even pulls off a furry look.
Price: 95$
Credit: Cariuma
So, there we go—five sneaker brands that are doing more for the planet than just looking cool. As always, cheers for reading and see you next time!
