5 Sustainable Boot Brands Doing Better for the Planet
If you can repair your existing boots, that’s the most sustainable thing to do. Here are 5 Ways a Cobbler Can Fix Your Shoes.
But if it’s time to replace your boots and you want to shop sustainably, avoid those made from virgin animal leather. Instead, consider buying ones crafted from alternative materials like recycled rubber, repurposed plastic, or pineapple leather.
These alternatives are more compassionate towards animals and have a lower carbon footprint.
Here are five shoe brands offering sustainable boots that don't compromise on style:
Forsake
Forsake specializes in performance footwear and sneakers with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The brand incorporates BLOOM® algae foam in its midsoles and footbeds, sources leather from LWG Gold-certified tanneries, and uses 100% recycled materials for webbing, laces, liners, and packaging. It uses natural probiotics to combat foot odor and has achieved over 90% waste diversion from landfills at its warehouse. Targeting adventurers and hikers, the brand holds a Climate Neutral Certification to signify its efforts in reducing carbon impact.
More about Forsake→
Nisolo
Nisolo, a leather footwear brand, offers a wide range of products including boots, heels, sneakers, sandals, and oxfords for both men and women. It ensures transparency with a Sustainability Facts Label on each product, detailing carbon footprint, emissions offset, raw materials, processing, manufacturing, packaging, and post-use lifecycle scores. It sources leather as a by-product of the food system from Leather Working Group Certified tanneries and it is Climate Neutral and B Corp certified. Nisolo also guarantees 100% living wages for its Tier 1 suppliers and adheres to a robust program covering health and safety, gender equality, healthcare, and racial justice.
More about Nisolo→
Will's Vegan Store
Will's Vegan Store offers footwear, apparel, and accessories made from recycled materials. It provides sustainable options for men, women, and children. The products are crafted from Italian bio-based vegan leather and comply with EU employment laws and key sustainability goals. Its items are PETA-approved vegan, plastic-free, and carbon-neutral. Will's Vegan Store holds Climate Neutral Certification, ensuring a carbon-neutral footprint across all operations—from online activities to parcel shipping.
More about Will's Vegan Store→
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Icebug
Icebug, a Swedish brand, is known for its high-performance outdoor footwear, offering a variety of products such as winter boots and hiking shoes. Committed to sustainability, Icebug holds B Corp certificate, is part of 1% for the Planet, and actively engages with the Fair Wear Foundation, showcasing its dedication to sustainable outdoor gear for environmentally conscious consumers.
More about Icebug→
REI
REI, a co-op owned by over five million members, offers a wide selection of winter and waterproof boots. Its durable boot brands, many made from recycled materials, provide sustainable choices. Shoppers can also find affordable options at REI’s online outlet and secondhand shop. REI champions climate action and social justice through initiatives like the REI Cooperative Action Fund, supporting nonprofits for an equitable and inclusive outdoor experience.
More about REI→