For too long, outdoor performance gear, especially hiking footwear, has lagged behind when it comes to ethics. Leather, toxic glues, and unsustainable materials have long dominated the shelves. But as more brands shift toward conscious production, it’s finally becoming easier to find vegan hiking and trail shoes that are not only ethical but fully functional.

Here’s a curated list of brands and specific models that deliver performance on the trail without compromising on ethics or sustainability.

1. Icebug – “Pytho6 BUGrip®” (Vegan)

Made in: Vietnam (with factory transparency)
Best for: Trail running, hiking on rugged or icy terrain

Why it fits:
Icebug is a Swedish brand known for traction-focused outdoor shoes, especially for slippery, wintry, or mixed-terrain hikes. The Pytho6 BUGrip® is fully vegan, has aggressive lugs, and comes with carbide steel studs for icy ground — making it ideal for winter or shoulder-season hikes.

Image Source: IceBug

Sustainability highlights:

• Vegan-friendly model with no leather or animal glues

• Upper made with 100% recycled PET polyester

• Bluesign® certified textiles and DWR treatment (fluorocarbon-free)

• Climate-positive company — first footwear brand to disclose full climate impact

• Made in factories they regularly audit (including Vietnam and China)

2. Will’s Vegan Store – “Waterproof Hiking Boots”

Made in: Italy
Best for: Wet and rugged conditions

Will’s is one of the most respected names in vegan footwear. Their waterproof hiking boots are constructed with bio-based vegan leather from cereal crops, and the lining is made from recycled content. The boots are waterproof to European standards, with Vibram soles for durability and grip.

Image Source: Will's Vegan Store

Highlights:

• Waterproof and breathable membrane

• EU-made using bio-based and recycled materials

• Carbon-neutral company

3. Merrell – “Moab Speed Eco Waterproof” (Vegan Version)

Made in: Global (varies)
Best for: All-weather trail running and light hiking

Merrell’s “Moab Speed Eco” is one of the few major-brand offerings that is both high-performance and fully vegan. It uses recycled mesh uppers, recycled laces, and a Vibram EcoStep outsole made with 30% recycled rubber. It’s breathable, water-repellent, and has serious trail cred.

Image Source: MERRELL

Highlights:

• 100% vegan construction (confirmed by Merrell)

• Recycled and low-impact materials

• Well-cushioned for fast hiking and trail running

4. Xero Shoes – “Xcursion Fusion”

Made in: Asia (ethically audited)
Best for: Minimalist hikers and barefoot-style walking

For hikers who want a lightweight, barefoot feel, the Xcursion Fusion is one of the best vegan options. It’s fully waterproof, grippy, and highly packable. While not ideal for heavy packs or sharp alpine trails, it excels in day hiking, forest trails, and low-impact treks.

Image Source: XERO Shoes

Highlights:

• Zero-drop barefoot design

• Waterproof bootie construction

• Vegan and flexible outsole

5. Astral – “TR1 Merge”

Made in: Vietnam
Best for: Water hikes, mixed terrain

Astral is known for its river gear and adventure-ready shoes. The TR1 Merge combines sneaker-like comfort with trail boot performance. Made with quick-dry mesh and vegan materials, it’s especially great for summer hikes or wet conditions.

Image Source: ASTRAL

Highlights:

• Grippy G Rubber outsole

• Vegan materials, quick-dry upper

• Great for hybrid trail/water use

What Makes a Hiking Shoe Vegan and Ethical?

Vegan trail shoes avoid all animal-derived materials — including leather, suede, wool, and glues made from animal byproducts. But for a shoe to be truly ethical, it should also consider how it’s made.

Look for brands that:

• Use certified recycled or bio-based materials

• Manufacture in regions with labour protections

• Are transparent about their supply chain

• Commit to low-impact packaging and shipping

Ethical doesn’t have to mean compromising on function — these brands prove you can have both.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a hiking shoe isn’t just about technical specs anymore. It’s about values, too. Whether you hike every weekend or just need something for your next national park trip, the vegan hiking options above offer quality without compromise.

You don’t have to choose between comfort, durability, and doing what’s right. The best trail shoes today do all three.