With overconsumption at its peak, the impact on resource depletion, waste and pollution, carbon emissions, and chemical and microplastic pollution has become irreversible. Consumers are seeking more sustainable, durable, and versatile footwear to reduce the number of products whose life cycle ends in landfills and simultaneously detach themselves from the throwaway culture fueled by fast fashion.

We have compiled 10 sustainable footwear brands that are pushing the industry into changes not only in manufacturing and sourcing of materials but also in consumer culture and the conservation of the natural environment.

1. 8000Kicks

8000Kicks has challenged the footwear industry in terms of materials because Hemp is one of the most durable natural fibers on earth. Combining this material with stylish designs could help mainstream footwear incorporate hemp and other natural materials.

Image Source 8000Kicks

The 8000Kicks Explorer sneaker is a great option for activewear due to its use of hemp fiber and its waterproof properties. Hemp was first used 8000 years ago, and its use has been in decibel in recent decades. This natural fiber is naturally antibacterial and does not require large amounts of pesticides, water, or labor to produce.

2. VEJA

Since 2005, VEJA has been producing responsible-sourced sneakers in its ethical factories in Brazil and Portugal. The soles of the sneakers are made of Amazonian rubber, the uppers are made of organic pesticide-free cotton, and the uppers are made of plastic bottles gathered from the streets of Rio de Janeiro.

Image Source VEJA

VEJA aspires to transparency in its manufacturing process and environmental and social efforts, which aim to create appropriate living conditions and living wages. Overall, VEJA takes a different approach to modern sneaker production, integrating circular economy principles into its Clean, Repair, Collect program.

3. Thousand Fell

Thousand Fell aims to close the loop with its recycling program that collects shoes to be refurbished for those in need or taken apart and harvested for parts for resources for new products. The customer, by trading in their used shoes, can receive rewards and prevent any Thousand Fell shoes from entering the landfill.

Image Source Thousand Fell

Thousand Fell uses innovative materials like coconut husks and recycled bottles to reduce reliance on non-renewable and petroleum-based materials. The company also takes part in 1% For the Planet as a way to give back to the environment and vulnerable communities.

4. Bhava Studio

Bhava created cruelty-free and ethically sourced footwear. From boots to loafers, a limited amount is produced in Spain to avoid overproduction.

Image Source Bhava Studio

This artisan footwear company is challenging the leather industry by using innovative vegan leathers, cork, and other recycled materials. The leather industry is responsible for the slaughter of 1 billion animals per year as well as polluting the natural environment with harmful chemicals.

5. Alohas

Alohas was founded in 2015 to craft cruelty-free sneakers, boots, heels, and ballet flats, among others.

Image Source Alohas

Alohas also uses an on-demand business model to avoid overproduction and waste. The use of bio-based or vegetable leather provided a great alternative to the use of traditional leathers as well as sustainability-sourced rubber used in the sole of their footwear.

Closing Statements

By choosing durable, responsibly sourced, and repairable shoes, consumers can help reduce waste, minimize their environmental impact, and support brands that are committed to ethical and ecological practices. As more companies adopt sustainable models, the shift toward mindful consumption is not just a trend—it’s a necessary transformation for the future of fashion and the planet.