5 Sustainable Shoe Brands You Need to Know About
These brands are saving the planet one step at a time!
The environment needs our care and attention now more than ever. Unfortunately, the clothing industry is one of the biggest detriments to our environment, in fact, Bloomberg reports that "fashion accounts for up to 10% of global carbon dioxide output". Luckily, there are certain brands that are taking a stand and dedicating themselves to bettering the environment. We've rounded up 5 amazing shoe brands that are making high-quality shoes that you won't have to throw away after a year, and that are made out of sustainable materials and in eco-friendly manners. Several of these brands are even certified B-Corps, so you know they're giving back to the environment and the community. No matter what type of shoes you're looking for - men's, women's, sandals, sneakers, boots, heels - there's an earth-friendly brand on this list where you can find them!
Before you continue, we'd like to let you know that this list may contain affiliate links, meaning we may collect a commission if you decide to click through and make a purchase.
1. Alohas
If you haven’t heard of Alohas, it’s time to put them on your radar! Alohas is a Spain-based footwear brand whose shoes are all made on-demand, reducing waste by only creating the inventory they need. They offer discounts of up to 30% when you pre-order, but you can also shop their in-stock items for full price. Alohas’ pre-order system allows them to anticipate demand prior to production, so they only produce the amount of shoes they're really going to sell. For you, this means getting to order next season’s must haves early on and at a discount while participating in the movement towards more sustainable fashion. Alohas shoes are high-quality and made with sustainable leather from certified suppliers. To ensure a smaller carbon footprint, Alohas shoes are made locally in the coastal region of Alicante, Spain. If you’re shopping for a new set of heels or sandals that will last you a lifetime, be comfortable, and never go out of style, shop Alohas!
2. Samuel Hubbard
Another sustainable shoe brand to look out for is family-owned, Samual Hubbard. Sustainability is one of the main pillars of Samuel Hubbards, because they believe shoes should be high quality enough to last years and years. That’s why they only use the best materials for their meticulously crafted shoes. Plus they’ve started using materials made from recycled water bottles for many of their shoes. Many of Samuel Hubbards’ shoes can be resoled, meaning you can double the life of your shoes. And you’ll want to, considering how comfortable these shoes are! They have a proprietary insole that’s dubbed the “Best in the Game”, so you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds. You can also take advantage of their "trade-up program", where you receive $50 off a pair of Hubbards when you donate your old shoes—any brand—to someone in need. Handcrafted in Portugal, these shoes are the product of generations of expertise along with detail-oriented craftsmanship.
Click here to shop Samuel Hubbard!
3. Allbirds
Allbirds are known for their featherlight shoes made from eucalyptus tree fiber. This carbon-neutral brand is on a mission to reverse climate change including reducing its own carbon footprint. In fact, they’re even aiming beyond carbon neutrality - with processes like regenerative farming and renewable materials, they are working to become climate positive. As a certified B-Corporation, Allbirds is committed to giving back to various charities and causes. From their natural, eco-conscious materials, to their commitment to offsetting their carbon footprint, Allbirds is sustainable through and through. They’ve expanded their products to include clothing and apparel, along with their renowned shoes that you just have to try out for yourself.
4. AERA
AERA makes luxury, vegan, and certified 110% sustainable footwear for women. Handmade by artisans in Veneto, Italy. Aera is proudly the first certified B-Corp in luxury footwear. At Aera, they place equal value in their product, people, and the planet. All of Aera’s shoes are made with as many eco-friendly materials as possible, and what little footprint they do have, they offset by 110%. The "110% offset" philosophy is the core of their commitment to not only neutralize the impact of their business on the planet but to also help it heal. This carbon-negative business uses only Italian suppliers and factories, ensuring their footprint remains small while also keeping the highest quality, ethical working conditions. You can shop all kinds of women’s shoes from boots to flats, and you’ll know that your purchase is making a positive impact.
5. Laiik
Each pair of Laiik leather sandals and shoes is handmade responsibly by artisans in the heart of Athens, Greece. Laiik uses only the highest quality and natural materials, including vegetable-tanned and chromium-free Italian leathers. These leathers are celebrated for their softness and durability and actually get better with age. Handmade by 3rd-generation craftsmen and women, Laiik sandals combine Centuries-old sandal-making techniques with modern designs, delivering Greek-inspired footwear that transcends time. Close relationships with their makers in Greece and careful selection of their suppliers means they can ensure that high ethical and environmental standards are upheld every step of the way. These high-quality Greek-inspired shoes will last you a lifetime!
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