The Ultimate Guide to the Best Vegan Sneakers: Stylish, Sustainable, and Comfortable

Discover top vegan sneaker brands offering style without compromise. From Freewaters' comfort to Lems' zero-drop design, find your perfect cruelty-free fit!
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Best Vegan Sneakers

Are you ready to kick it up a notch with your sneaker game? Going vegan doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. In fact, vegan sneakers have come a long way since the days of Birkenstocks and Crocs!

Shoe materials like leather and suede are frequently derived from animals, as are glues and dyes. In addition, chemicals used to treat sneakers are often tested on animals. Vegan sneakers are made without any animal ingredients or testing. Thus, no living creature are harmed for the sake of a pair of kicks.

Best Vegan Sneakers

Best Comfort: Freewaters

Freewaters is a shoe brand that specializes in sandals, and launched into cruelty-free footwear with their Peralta trainer. Launched in 2010, the company creates sustainable, cruelty-free footwear while also supporting clean water initiatives around the world.

Features: 

  • Extra support
  • Thick midsole
  • Super cushiony foam insole
  • Extra grip traction

What activities are Freewaters best for?
These shoes are great for casual wear, whether you’re going to a party, walking around city streets or heading into work. The Pelota DDC look and feel great, with a throwback style and color combination.  The thick midsole is also great for standing for long stretches of time. The extra plush foam cushion provides additional back support, making the shoes feel like supportive clouds on your feet. 

What activities to avoid?
Wet weather, distance jogging / running, hiking or intensive sports like basketball. The ankle support is not strong enough to effectively hold the foot in place and the thick foam cushion makes it easier to roll your foot.

What type of materials?
The upper is constructed of cotton canvas and microsuede. The outsole is made of extra grippy, PVC-free recycled rubber.

Price: $100
 

Does the company sell all vegan products? 
No, Freewaters makes sandals using animal leather.

 

Best Zero-Drop: Lems Primal 2

Lems Primal 2 Vegan Sneakers

Colorado-based shoe brand Lems creates durable, all-terrain footwear that are both stylish and healthy for your feet. Lems is are fantastic for people with foot issues like bunions, fallen arches and flat feet. I have bunions and found their sneakers to be especially roomy and comfortable.

The shoes have an extra large toe-box, ensuring that your toes have plenty of space to move. They also have minimal, zero drop heels, which reduces the elevation between the heel and front foot. This is meant to strengthen the foot arch and encourage healthy posture.

Features:

  • Flat sole
  • Extra grip traction
  • Water-resistant upper
  • Zero-drop heel
  • Natural shape foot box

What activities are Lems Primal 2 best for?
Casual wear, trail running, hiking, walking. Lems can also be used for sports like basketball, soccer, track and tennis. This is because the zero-drop structure gives the wearer more connection to the ground, creating more stability. This is important for activities that require quick back and forth, left to right movements.

What activities should be avoided?
While the rugged construction of these shoes make them seem ideal for backcountry hiking, in my experience, the Primal 2 is not well suited for hiking along very rocky terrain or wet weather. This is because the shoes are not completely waterproof or sealed, so moisture and rocks can easily enter the footbed.

What materials are they made from?
Microfiber upper, open-weave mesh, water-resistant polyester lining. All of the materials used in the sneaker are synthetic, including the shoe laces and glues.

Price: $110

Does the company sell all vegan products?
No, Lems also carries leather and suede based products.

Fair Trade Policies:
Lems promotes sustainable practices by expanding their line of vegan materials, integrating recycled materials into their products, and donating shoes to people in need through the non-profit soles4souls.org.

Best Waterproof: 8000Kicks Explorer

8000Kicks Vegan Sneakers
8000Kicks hemp shoes are the world’s first waterproof sneakers made of cannabis hemp. The Explorer V2 is their flagship sneaker. The aerodynamic, form-fitting design reminds us Nike Fly Knit running sneakers.
 
The sneaker‘s upper body exterior is make from hemp fibers, the bottom sole from algae BLOOM foam. As stated on the 8000Kicks website, an easy way to remember this is “Weed upper, algae bottom” . Some of the most appealing characteristics of the 8000Kicks are durability, water resistance and inherent anti-bacterial properties. Hemp naturally repels moisture, is anti-microbial and is one of the strongest fibers in nature.
 
Features:
  • Waterproof upper
  • Bouncy, extra cushion midsole
  • Antimicrobial / odor resistant 
What activities are 8000Kicks best for?
The Algae bottom midsole of 8000Kicks hemp sole provide a lot of support and cushioning, making them reliable jogging, running and walking shoes.  However, where 8000Kicks really shines is with the odor-resistant, waterproof hemp fabric. These shoes can get grimy and wet while keeping your feet dry and odor-free.
 

Does the company sell all vegan products?
Yes, 8000Kicks shoes are all made from hemp.

Fair Trade Policies:
The brand sources the world’s most premium hemp in order to create long-lasting, durable products. Their shoes have one of the lowest CO2 footprints, meaning that they release significantly less pollution into the air when creating their sneakers. They also partner with factories in China and Portugal, known for preeminent standards in hemp quality.

Best Shock Absorption: Veja Condor 2

Veja Condor 2 Vegan Sneakers

Veja, based in France, has been a pioneer in sustainable sneakers for almost 20 years. They create shoes that are stylish, environmentally friendly and socially responsible. The Condor 2 is the newest version of their flagship vegan running shoe and comes in styles for both men and women. 

The Condor 2 is significantly lighter than the first Condor – by 14 grams. Veja clearly wanted to make their most popular sneaker more agile and precision-oriented for joggers and runners.

What activities are Veja Condor 2 designed for?
The Condor 2 is obviously a great jogging, running and walking shoe, and works well as an everyday gym shoe. It’s also an all-round good sports shoe. There’s a lot more midsole cushion on the Condor 2 compared to the first version, which provides more shock absorption and support. A runner at The Sports Edit writes of her experience testing the Condor 2 over long 5+ miles runs.

What activities are they NOT good for?
The Condor 2 is not waterproof, so would not work well in wet, rainy or snow conditions. Your feet will get drenched pretty quickly.

What materials are they made from?
Veja uses materials like synthetic suede, polyester made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, and insoles made out of wild Amazonian rubber and other synthetic materials.

Price: under $100

Does the company sell all vegan products?
No, while Veja has a large and growing cruelty-free selection, they also carry non-vegan products.

Sustainable Certifications:
Veja is a Certified B Corporation which verifies the company’s social and environmental impact, and uses Fairtrade certified organic cotton.

Fair Trade Policies:
Veja verifies that it pays its employees a living wage.  They also buy materials directly from farmers in Brazil and Peru, and signs one year contracts at a pre-negotiated price. This allows producers to be guaranteed a fixed price, which in turn allows them to better plan and budget for future crops. Veja’s warehouses are located in Brazil and inspected regularly by the company.

Best Orthotics: HOKA Rincon 3

HOKA running shoes are designed with ultralight materials, including compression-molded EVA foam midsoles, breathable mesh uppers, and asymmetrical tongue for the perfect fit.

Features: 

  • Thick, plush sole
  • Extra shock absorption
  • Extra foot and ankle support

What activities are HOKA Rincon 3 designed for?
HOKA shoes are great for serious jogging, running and walking over long distance. This is because of innovative technology such as a cushioned midsole for shock absorbency, a minimal heel to toe drop to improve your gait, and a special heel architecture to reduce impact on your joints. 

The shoes even have special frames which keeps your foot in place and prevent your ankle from rolling. HOKA shoes are rated to meet Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being.

What activities to avoid?
Wet weather activities, sports that require lightness on your feet. The shoes are on the heavy side and would not be good for sports like basketball, soccer or tennis where every ounce counts.

What materials are they made from?
Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole

Price: under $150

Does the company sell all vegan products? 
No, HOKA makes some of their shoes using animal leather.

Best All Sport: ON Cloud X Shift

When you travel around Europe, you’ll notice a consistent trend – a huge percentage of people are wearing ON shoes. While they haven’t caught on as big in the US, they are gaining momentum.

ON was founded in the Swiss Alps with one purpose in mind: to change the running experience. The architecture of the sneakers revolves around the concept of gentle landings followed by ferocious takeoffs, also known as “running on clouds”.

Features:

  • Thick, bouncy midsole
  • Extra grippy sole
  • Extra ankle and support support

What activities are ON Cloud X Shift designed for?
The light-as-air, super bouncy support these shoes provide make them fantastic training / gym / jogging / walking shoes. However, what makes them truly unique is the way they hold your foot in place while providing springboard precision for all your movement. Shoes like this can take aerobics, kickboxing or zumba to another level. You can move left, right, front, back with speed and confidence that you’re not going to roll your foot or lose balance.

What activities to avoid?
The lightweight construction is not good for heavy duty, long distance running of more than 5 miles at a time. 

Materials:
The Cloud X Shift upper is made from partially-
recycled polyester, with EVA midsole and rubber outsole.

Does the company sell all vegan products?
No, ON also sells leather and suede based products.

Fair Trade Policies: 
On Footwear has a number of fair trade and sustainability initiatives. They convert carbon emissions into raw materials and created a sneaker subscription service with the goal of reducing waste and over-production.designed

Best Midsole Support: Lunge Classic

German-based Lunge are specialists in ergonomic, environmentally friendly, handcrafted running shoes.

Lunge’s footwear is 100% vegan brand and also makes non-toxic shoes without the use of harmful chemicals or dyes. Their products follow Öko-Tex Standard 100 specifications to verify that products are free of toxins and harmful pollutants.

Features:

  • Midsole with significantly more EVA support
  • 9mm heel to toe lift

What activities are Lunge shoes designed for?
Running, running and more running. These shoes are built for serious jogging, running, and walking. They are also great for dynamic sports like boxing and tennis.

Lunge are designed to provide superior midsole support for your foot and joints upon impact. One key differentiator of the shoes is the amount of EVA used in the sole. Lunge midsole are 80% EVA, which is significantly more thank other running shoes. The gives your foot robust suspension, pronation support and shock absorption.

What activities to avoid?
Lunge shoes are not waterproof, so will not work well in rainy conditions.

Sustainability Certifications:
Lunge products are made with REACH and Öko-Tex certified materials.

Does the company sell all vegan products? Yes, Lunge sneakers are 100% vegan.

Fair Trade Policies: The company also sources and produces the majority of vegan shoe materials from Germany, ensuring its supply chain and labor practices are ecologically sensible and socially responsible.

Best for Women Runners: Adidas x Parkey Ultraboost 22

Adidas X Parley Ultraboost 22

Adidas has teamed up with environmental group Parley to clean the oceans, including removing thousands of pounds of plastic bottles. These fashionable, durable and sustainable running shoes are also created using an eco-friendly low energy and low water usage process.

The collaboration of Adidas and Parley has resulted in the creation of “Primeblue”, a high-performance recycled material derived of up-cycled plastic waste from remote islands, beaches, and coastal communities. The companies have also created targets to reduce their carbon emissions and made progress in removing toxic chemicals from their products.

Adidas has been improving its Ultra Boost line of Primeblue shoes for years. Ultra Boost 22 is the latest iteration and improves and what makes this version even more special is that it was developed specifically to address the ergonomic issues of female runners. Adidas scanned the feet of approximately 1.2 million women runners. Watch one runner’s video review on Road Runner Sports.

Features:

  • Snug fit
  • Firm midsole
  • Optimized instep

What activities are Ultra Boost 22 designed for?
These running shoes are optimized for long distance jogging and running. The Ultra Boost 22 are extremely versatile and work well for boxing, basketball, dance, aerobics, and just about any sports that requires quick, reflexive foot movement. The sneaker has a snug fitting heel, extra firm cushion midsole, and reduced height on the instep to help wearers keep their foot in place, avoid rolling arches and incorrect pronation. 

These changes were made based on the fact that women have narrower feet and a smaller toe box. The Adidas scientists also concluded that, on average, women are more prone than males to over pronate. Read one runner’s review of the Ultra Boost on Live Science.

The Ultra Boost sole is thus designed to be broader, longer, and more flexible. This sole’s extreme thickness and width offer landing support and cushioning. The tongue of the Ultra Boost 22 also stays in place very well, adding to the customized fit of the shoe. 

What activities to avoid?
The Ultra Boost 22 midsole is too chunky for high speed running or track sports. They maneuver slippery, wet sidewalks and pavement very well.

Materials:
Upper made of 50% recycled ocean plastic

Does the company sell all vegan products? No. Adidas does prohibit the use of exotic animal skins such as angora and cashmere, they still allow the use of leather and wool.

Fair Trade Policies: Adidas is the 2nd largest athletic footwear company in the world, behind Nike.  That said, they are miles ahead in terms sustainable fair trade practices when compared to other fashion companies of their size. According to the 2018 Australian Fashion Report, they have an A- rating in terms of workplace safety and workers earning a living wage.

However, Adidas is still a “fast fashion” company and still falls short of many fair trade labor goals in terms of workplace safety and worker compensation. For example, the company still has a long way to go in terms of what they pay their supply chain employees, as compared to what they pay sport stars for product sponsorships.

Best Style: GGDWL Running Shoes

Good Guys vegan sneakers will get you noticed. The company creates cool street footwear, is 100% cruelty-free, and holds fair trade labor practices as a top priority.

Good Guys sneakers are made from synthetic leather for the upper body, brown rubber outer sole.

Features:

  • Thick midsole
  • Bouncy support
  • Removable insole
  • Odor resistant lining

What activities are GGDWL sneakers designed for?
Guys running shoes are great for walking, light jogging, gym workouts and stationary activities like weight lifting. The odor resistant interior fabric also keeps your feet dry and smell-free. They are also great for casual wear and will inspire complements from friends and strangers alike, making you feel like a bit of a fashionista.  They are bouncy, supportive, with a moderate elevation between the heel and front of the foot. 

What activities to avoid?
These sneakers are not ideal for distance endurance sports, like long distance, marathon running or track running.

Materials:
Synthetic suede upper, microfiber antibacterial lining, rubber sole

Does the company sell all vegan products?
Yes, all products are 100% vegan.

Fair Trade Policies: GGDQL produces its shoes in Europe following fair-trade workspace safety codes of compliance.

Best Hiking: Merrell Siren Edge

Merrell shoes, sneakers and hiking boots have been at the forefront of shoe technology for decades. The Siren Edge is their foray into a style of shoe that works for both hiking and trail running.

Features:

  • Stiff midsole
  • Slim, removable insole
  • Molded arch support
  • Elevated heel with cushion

What activities are Merrell Siren Edge designed for?
Known for their excellence in hiking, Merrel’s Siren Edge are a solid choice for backpacking, hiking and walking along uneven terrain. They are also very lightweight for a hiking shoe. You can get them wet and muddy without worry of your foot getting damp. They also effectively seal your foot to keep out pebbles and stones, while allowing air flow through the breathable mesh upper.

What activities to avoid?
Distance jogging and running more than 5 miles. The firm midsole is also not great for sports like dancing, basketball and tennis because your foot needs more flexibility and movement. 

Materials:
The Siren Edge 3 sneakers are constructed with a mesh TPU upper, Kinetic Fit™ TRI removable contoured insole and a molded nylon arch support.

Does the company sell all vegan products?
No, Merrell also sells leather and suede based products.

Fair Trade Policies:  
Merrell strives to keep a balance between its business practices, environmental standards and workforce ethics. According to their corporate sustainability code, Merrell only sources materials from vendors that comply with international labor standards and provide safe, equitable working conditions. They have a public code of conduct that they require all vendors to follow.

Best Lightweight: Soala Tsavo

Named after one of the rarest mammals on Earth, Saola slip on sneakers have a similar rare design. Saola are experts of sustainable shoe architecture. Their innovative design techniques enable their shoes to be flexible, lightweight and well-ventilated.

The “Mindo” series is one of our favorite sneakers collections they are slip-on and can be worn with or without socks.

Features:

  • Slip on 
  • Water resistant
  • Breathable
  • Well-cushioned midsole

What activities are Saola Tsavo designed for?
Tsavo are great for casual wear, walking city streets, light hiking. These are the ultimate “chill” shoes. Lightweight, breathable, you can slip them on like socks. They are also water-resistant.

What activities to avoid?
Dancing, jogging, hiking, running, gym training or intensive sports. They don’t provide enough ankle or foot support.

Materials: The upper body is comprised of 90% recycled PET, mesh linings and the bottom sole from BLOOM algae foam. The insoles are removable and can be modified according to your unique orthotic requirements.

Does the company sell all vegan products? Yes, Saola products are 100% vegan.

Fair Trade Policies: Saola relies on manufacturing and production based in China. One of the company founders re-located to China to personally oversee the warehouse and labor conditions.

Best Skateboarding: Adidas Samba

Adidas' White Vegan Samba Sneakers

Adidas iconic “Samba” classic shoe made its debut more than 50 years ago. The sneaker was originally developed for football (otherwise known as soccer in the US) players to train on frozen outdoor fields. The company has reinvented the timeless style into a sustainable version that is 100% cruelty-free.

Features:

  • Flat midsole
  • Minimal heel elevation
  • Grippy traction

What activities are Adidas Samba designed for?
Skateboarding, casual wear, walking city streets, looking timelessly cool.

What activities to avoid?
Serious jogging, running or team sports.

Materials:
This vegan shoe is made from PU-coated recycled polyester upper.

Does the company sell all vegan products? No, while Adidas’ vegan shoe line is expanding, the majority of their products are non-vegan.

Fair Trade Policies: Adidas has made progress in settings specific sustainability goals and paying its workers comparatively more than other large fashion companies.  However, it is still very much a “Fast Fashion” company that needs to make significant improvement in what it pays supply chain employees and the standard of workplace safety required in its warehouses.

Best Classic Style: Etiko

Australia-based Etiko talks the talk and walks the walk. The company creates a wide range of clothing and sneakers and are passionate about their commitment to cruelty-free products, environmental sustainability and equitable labor practices.

On top of all this, Etiko also has a sneaker recycling program! Send them your discarded sneaks to be re-purposed into a new fabulous pair.

Etiko’s Vegan Hi-top sneaker is based on the Converse’s legendary “Chuck Taylors” of the past.

Features:

  • Eco friendly organic cotton upper
  • Flat midsole
  • Minimal heel elevation
  • Minimal arch support

What activities are Etiko high tops designed for?
Casual wear, skateboarding, light / moderate walking around the city. The Chuck Taylors style is classic, and reworked in an environmentally friendly way. These shoes look great at the office or hanging out with friends. 

What activities to avoid?
Hiking, jogging, running and team sports, since these shoes have virtually zero ankle or foot support.

Materials:
The sneakers are made of sustainable materials including natural latex rubber from a rubber tree, organic cotton canvas and does not contain animal glues or toxic dyes. The Organic Cotton canvas and laces are hand stitched by Certified Fairtrade employees.

Sustainability Certifications:
Etiko uses GOTS certified organic, fairtrade cotton and is certified with Fair Trade USA and the international system.

Does the company sell all vegan products?
 
Yes, all of Etiko’s products are vegan.

Fair Trade Policies:
The company promotes equitable labor practices and is Fair Trade Certified. EKN works to ensure its entire supply chain receives a living wage and safe workplace environment. Their packaging is also biodegradable and made of post consumer waste. 

Runner Up Brands

Vegetarian Shoes

Vegetarian Shoes Vegan Runners

UK-based Vegetarian Shoes creates modern versions of classic sneaker styles.

Materials:
Their nostalgic sneakers are made with fake-suede, nylon mesh, microfiber and organic cotton.

Fair Trade Policies: 
Vegetarian Shoes manufactures in Portugal under fair trade labor conditions.

Saola primary mission is to divert trash from landfills. They achieve this goal by utilizing 3-4 plastic bottles to create each pair of sneakers, in addition to repurposing recycled knit and organic materials.

Features:

  • Flat midsole
  • Minimal heel elevation
  • Water resistant
  • Antimicrobial

What activities are Soala vegan leather sneakers designed for?
Strictly casual wear only.

What activities to avoid?
Any type of serious athletics.

Materials:
The “Cannon” sneaker collection upper body is comprised of “Gold Standard Certified” PET recycled water bottles and recycled canvas knit. This composition makes the shoes even more water-resistant and antibacterial. The bottom sole is made from cork, and BLOOM algae froth, a rubber substitute. The shoe laces are made with soft organic cotton.

Does the company sell all vegan products? Yes, all of Saola’s products are made from recycled, synthetic and organic materials.

Fair Trade Policies: Saola is a young company, and still relies on production based in China. That said, one of the company founders personally re-located to China to oversee the warehouses and labor conditions. In addition, the company gives back to endangered wildlife by contributing 1% of profits to the Mwalua Wildlife Trust.

EKN Footwear

EKN Footwear

EKN Vegan Sneakers

EKN footwear evokes the style of classic 1990s basketball sneakers, such as Adidas, Nike and Reebok. Handcrafted in Portugal, EKN was founded on the ethos that footwear should be made with high-quality, organic materials free of harmful chemicals or dyes.

EKN sneakers are made from synthetic leather suede, GOTS-certified bio-canvas, and recycled rubber soles. Recycled neoprene and mesh is used to create removable insoles.

Features:

  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Thick, vibram sole
  • Grippy traction
  • Handmade

What activities are EKN Popular Everyday Running shoes designed for?
The lightweight EVA and vibram sole make EKN shoes great for walking and casual wear.  They also look super retro-cool and will dress up any 90s themed outfit nicely.

What activities to avoid?
EKN shoes have a tall heel to toe drop, which may be destabilizing for some runners. Therefore these shoes may not be ideal for distance jogging and running.

Materials: Recycled mesh, recycled synthetic leather

Price: under $200

Does the company sell all vegan products?
No, while they have a big line of vegan shoes, they also carry non-vegan products.

Sustainability Certifications:
EKN is a member of the FairCommerce Initiative.

Fair Trade Policies: 
The company employs Fair Trade work standards, is a member of FairCommerce. EKN manufactures its products in Portugal and verifies that it pays its employees a living wage.

POZU

OnyxWWhiteNavyPozu 5110 grande The Ultimate Guide to the Best Vegan Sneakers: Stylish, Sustainable, and Comfortable

POZU synthesizes sustainability and pop-culture in their organic cotton High-top Sneaker, featuring the Star Wars Rebel Alliance emblem. They have a large collection of Star Wars themed sneakers.

Features:

  • Removable insole
  • Flat, cushiony midsole
  • Minimal arch support
  • Minimal heel elevation

What activities are POZU designed for?
Casual wear, walking, standing for long periods of time.  The mattress-style midsole is super comfortable and provides good lumbar support.

What activities to avoid?
Jogging, running, sports.

Materials:
The sneakers ensure maximum comfort and orthotic support through the company’s signature Foot-Mattress™. The removable insole is made from natural latex foam and coconut fiber. The lower outsole rubber is sourced via Fair Trade organizations, ensuring quality and sustainability.

Does the company sell all vegan products?
Yes, POZU is 100% vegan and cruelty-free.

Fair Trade Policies: 
POZU is rated 5 / 5 stars by the Good Shopping Guide, an organization that evaluates how fashion companies treat their employees and comply with international safety standards.

Straye Venice

Straye Venice Hi Top Vegan Sneaker Collection

Designed like a classic 80s pop song, Straye’s high-top sneaker pays tribute to 80s style skater fashion. The company sells a large selection of skater gear, including shoes, apparel and accessories. The company also sponsors a professional team of skateboarders.

Features:

  • Removable insole
  • Durable cavas upper
  • Extra grippy traction

What activities are Straye Venice designed for?
Skate boarding, casual wear, light / moderate walking.

What activities to avoid?
Jogging, hiking, running, team sports

Materials:
The upper body is made from heavy gauge canvas fabric, ultra-grip rubber for the lower sole, and the company’s trademarked AcidDrop® Removable Insoles.

Does the company sell all vegan products?
No, Straye also carries leather and suede.

Veja Nova

Veja Nova High Top Vegan Sneakers in White

Veja’s success proves that products made with sustainable materials can be ecologically, socially and materially lucrative.

Materials:
Organic cotton, fair trade wild rubber, and vegan leather made from corn and polyurethane.

Does the company sell all vegan products? 
No, Veja also carries leather and suede products. 

Fair Trade Policies:
Veja is Fair Trade Certified, pays a living wage, maintains safe production environments.

Native Nova

Canada-based Native shoes are leading the footwear industry in creating sustainable, eco-friendly, fashion forward shoes, sneakers and boots. Their Nova HydroKnit is one of the first waterproof sneakers on the market.
 

Materials: 
Crafted from 50% recycled PET Yarn, stain resistant knit on the upper body and a waterproof lower body, the shoes are lightweight and push the boundaries of footwear technology. Most of Native’s products are created from microfiber vegan leather, so the HydroKnit are a standout in comparison with other shoes in their line. Artificial leather for the upper body, black rubber lower sole.

Does the company sell all vegan products?
Yes, Native is PETA certified and only creates vegan shoes.

Fair Trade Policies:
Native has completely eliminated animal-based textiles from their products. They also largely use recycled plastic to create their shoes. However, Native does produce their shoes in high-risk countries in terms of workplace safety and compliance.  Their warehouses are based in China and Vietnam.  They do claim to enforce stringent safety policies and regularly visit the factories to monitor conditions.
 

GGDWL Hi-Tops

WACK BLACK, VEGAN HIGH TOP SNEAKERS, VEGAN LEATHER

Good Guys’ black faux leather sneakers are sleek, minimalist, yet provocative. The style of the sneakers remind me of Doc Marten, with a late 80s / early 90s vibe.

Materials:
Artificial leather for the upper body, black rubber lower sole.

Does the company sell all vegan products? 
Yes, all Good Guys shoes are 100% cruelty-free.

Fair Trade Policies: 
GGDQL manufactures product in Portugal, following fair-trade safety codes of compliance.

FAQs

How did we create this list?

When testing vegan sneakers, we look at a variety of key features, including

  • Type of Material: The textiles used to construct the sneaker’s upper, toe cap and collar to provide protection, breathability and water resistance.

  • Design Purpose: We identify what activities the sneakers are designed for.

  • Activities to Avoid: We list activities that are not recommended based on the sneaker’s features and attributes.

  • Type of Support: A solid foundation is essential for every movement, whether you’re walking, leaping, jogging, or performing stationary exercises like weight training. Shoe support is provided by sole, midsole, outsole, collar and tongue. We also look at the elevation of the heel above the front of the foot, known as “heel drop”.

  • Type of Cushion: A shoe’s cushion may vary from flat, dense, and less bouncy to thick, plush, and highly springy. The midsole and sole provide the shoe’s cushion.

  • Type of Sole: The outsole provides agility, speed and traction. This allows the user to move in all directions quickly, and avoid slipping or sliding as they move.

What are vegan sneakers?

Vegan sneakers are shoes made without any animal products or by-products such as leather, suede, wool, or fur. Instead, these shoes are made using materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and synthetic fabrics that imitate the look and feel of leather. These materials are cruelty-free and more sustainable than animal-based materials.

What are the most well known vegan sneaker brands?

    • Onitsuka Tiger/Asics
    • Humans are Vain
    • Ration.L
    • Stella McCartney and adidas by Stella McCartney
    • Will’s Vegan Store
    • Ethletic

What are the best colorful vegan sneakers?

If you want to add a pop of color to your wardrobe, consider these colorful styles:

What are the best vegan grape leather sneakers?

    • Alexandra K makes high-end vegan sneakers made from Italian grape leather.
    • PANGAIA has a zero-waste vegan sneaker made from repurposed grape leather sourced from the Italian wine industry’s waste.

What other vegan leather options are available for sneakers?

    • Grape leather
    • Synthetic leather
    • Corn leather
    • Recycled plastic bottles
    • Recycled rubber

What are the benefits of choosing vegan sneakers?

1. They are animal-friendly and don’t contribute to the exploitation of animals.

2. Better for the environment and have a smaller environmental footprint than shoes made from leather or suede.

3. They offer an ethical alternative to align fashion choices with living an ethical lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

It’s clear that vegan sneakers are here to stay. They’re stylish, versatile, and offer a sustainable solution to fashion-forward individuals who want to make a positive impact on the world. Whatever you’re looking for, vegan sneakers can help you express yourself while doing good at the same time. Plus, with a range of options made from cutting-edge materials like grape leather and recycled plastics, you’re sure to find a pair that fits your personal style.

And let’s not forget the best part – no animals were harmed in the making of these shoes, which means you can wear them with a clear conscience. As the not-so-old saying goes, “If the shoe fits, wear it…especially if it’s vegan!”

Lems Primal 2
vegan shoes 1 The Ultimate Guide to the Best Vegan Sneakers: Stylish, Sustainable, and Comfortable

Lems Primal 2 are minimalist shoes with an extra large toe-box to give your toes plenty of space to move. They also have minimal, zero drop heels, which reduces the elevation between the heel and front foot. This is meant to strengthen the foot arch and encourage healthy posture.

Editor's Rating:
4.8

Pros

  • Foot shaped, wide toe box
  • Ergonomic design
  • Minimal heel drop
  • Optimized for bunions or hammer toes

Cons

  • Heel is not completely zero-drop
  • Limited color options

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