The 15 Best Vegan Footwear for Men & Women

If you’re looking to transition to a vegan lifestyle, there is a lot to think about, much of which goes way beyond diet and nutrition.

You may not realize it, but the items of clothing that you wear will also need addressing, as they may also not be vegan-friendly.

While it’s important to take pride in your appearance, it’s even more crucial that you do your research and find out about the products that you intend on wearing.

In today’s article, we are going to be looking at vegan shoes.

Yes, you can find top-quality vegan shoes which are not only eco-friendly but are also made from natural ingredients in a cruelty-free, exploitation-free environment.

But what exactly are these shoes, how can they help people to look fashionable and also address foot issues, and how do you know that you’re getting the real thing?

Well, after reading this handy guide on vegan comfort shoes and footwear, hopefully, all will become clear.

What Are Vegan Shoes/Sandals?

Those adhering to a vegan lifestyle will make a conscious effort to avoid consuming any culinary ingredients which have been derived from animal sources.

Typically, this means that vegans will avoid meat, fish, and dairy.

Some vegans, however, not only follow a vegan diet but also follow a vegan lifestyle.

This means that they avoid wearing and using products that have come from animal sources or could have negatively impacted the lives of animals, human beings, and any other living creatures in any way, shape, or form.

Many “fashionable” shoes, for example, are made of leather. Leather, unfortunately, is made from the hind of several living animals, including cows, pigs, and sheep.

To get leather, an animal is skinned and has all of the flesh removed from the hind.

It is then treated with various chemicals and undergoes several processes, including tanning and dying, until it forms the leather we know today.

To cut a long story short, vegan shoes are items of footwear that have been made utilizing NO animal by-products or ingredients whatsoever.

People seem to be under the impression that vegan walking shoes have to be made from hemp sacks and more closely resemble bundles of fiber or woven sacks, rather than shoes.

The reality, however, is that vegan safety shoes and sandals look and feel exactly like the real thing, with the added bonus of being completely vegan-friendly and great for the environment in the process.

What Are Vegan Shoes Made Out Of?

Vegan shoes and sandals can be made from various natural fibers and materials.

We mentioned earlier how most shoes are made of leather, but they also often contain other ingredients derived from animals, including wool, silk, fur, and even animal fats.

Eco-Vegan shoes or sandals, however, contain nothing derived from a living creature, and they contain nothing that may have negatively impacted the life of any living creature. Yes, that does include human beings.

Typically, they are made from what is known as ‘microfibre leather.’ Although it contains the word ‘leather,’ please do not let that worry you, as microfibre leather is a 100% synthetic version of leather.

This material looks like leather; it feels like leather, it’s just as sturdy as leather, but it isn’t real leather. It is made using polyurethane resin, along with microfibre bundles which are unbelievably fine.

Experts found that when you combine these two products, they mimic the structure of real leather.

In fact, the end results are so similar that many people can’t tell the difference between real leather and synthetic vegan-friendly microfibre leather.

The 15 Best Vegan Footwear for Men & Women

If you still don’t own them, this is an exciting time to be a vegan because this technology is relatively new.

Below are some of the best vegan sandals for men and women. You can check them and pick the one that is best suited for you.

Best Vegan Shoes/Sandals for Men 

1- KEEN Men’s UNEEK Sandal

Made up of 100% Fabric in the USA, KEEN Men’s UNEEK Sandal is one of the best vegan-friendly sandals you can buy online.

These come with a synthetic sole, polyurethane midsole, and anatomical footbed to provide your ankle and soles maximum comfort.

Keen UNEEK sandal is also the best huarache-inspired sandal that comes with a woven-cord upper featuring adjustable drawcord lacing and a non-marking rubber outsole.

This open-air footwear is available in various sizes and vibrant colors to complement your personality.

Whether you want them for hiking in the mountains, on beaches, or city streets, these are great comfort for your feet.

2- Reef Men’s Marbea SL Sandal

The Reef Marbea SL flip-flops leave a remarkable style. They have a vamp and a vegan leather insole with an asymmetrical strip designed for better support.

Increasingly, society demands ecologically correct raw materials. This demand brought them to finally produce Reef Men’s Marbea SL Sandal.

It was their motivation to search for an alternative to the primary plastics rubber sandal, known as villains of the environment.

A search resulted in sandals made of 100% renewable synthetic with a high percentage of biodegradability.

Features of the sandals:

• Made in the USA or Imported
• High-quality Rubber sole
• Featuring faux-leather footbed and upper layer
• Pinched seams at the strap
• Soft EVA foam midsole
• Molded rubber outsole
• Vegan leather upper and footbed

The Reef brand never disappoints, and these leather sandals are great.

I have bought their sandals myself, and I think they are well made, shock-resistant, comfortable, and very pleasant in contact with the skin and between the fingers.

These sandals are the ideal counterpoint if you are bored using low-quality sandals that destroy your feet.

These organic sandals are 100% Recyclable Products. It means that the sandal will be eco-friendly and not leave undegradable material like plastic does to our planet.

If you want real sandals that last for many years, these sandals have a great deal for you.

3- Sanuk Men’s Yogi 4 Flip Flop

These sandals are made of recycled yoga mats and textiles and instantly mold to your feet. It is instantly comfortable from the moment you put them on.

When you are using a Sanuk Men’s Yogi 4 Flip Flop, you have the feeling that it is stuck to your feet.

But that is hardly a feeling; it is a fact. A mesh of small spheres ensures the sandal has more grip on your feet.

In addition to that, these leather textures that form an active grip also guarantee greater comfort and create a luxurious look on the sandals.

They also eliminate the discomfort of grains of sand on the beach or mountain.

It has updated heavy canvas strap material. It is a similar material but with cleaner textures. Start your day right in these stylish and soft vegan leather sandals!

Features of the sandals:

• 100% Textile
• High-Quality Imported Sandals
• Comfortable Rubber sole
• Nylon webbing toe post
• Soft visa terry lining
• Same slimmer footbed shape as yogi 3

Sanuk Men’s Yogi 4 Flip Flop is designed for a better planet and to bring greater comfort and safety to those who wear it.

4- Chaco Men’s Z1 Classic Sandal

Chaco Men’s Z1 Classic Athletic Sandal has a lot of styles for sporty individuals. The brand is true, well-known for producing high-quality sandals since 1998.

The manufacturer produces this particular model using class 5 whitewater for every adventurer’s comfortability.

The contoured arch support above the sandals makes sure your feet lay perfectly. Leaving nothing but extreme comfort even for very active users.

This is because the LUVSEAT platform always gives the sandals a dependable contoured arch design. The adjustable straps also make it even more comfortable.

Interestingly, Chaco Men’s Z1 Classic Athletic Sandals are made of polyurethane compounds.

The difference is that PU doesn’t break down like regular disposable foam. This will ensure durability and make the product long-lasting on your feet in various terrains you step on.

Finally, ChacoGrip Technology ensures the grip of the sandals becomes remarkably well. Indeed, it is optimized for wet terrain and extreme condition.

Not to mention the quick-dry polyester makes these vegan sandals with arch support easy to clean.

Features of the Sandals:

• 100% PU Textile
• High-Quality Imported Sandals
• Polyester jacquard webbing upper wraps around the foot and through the midsole for a customized fit
• Adjustable and durable high-tensile webbing heel risers
• LUVSEAT PU midsole
• Antimicrobial application for odor control
• Non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole with 3.5mm deep lug

5- Merrell Men’s Sport Hiking Water Shoe

Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe is designed for active individuals looking for durable shoes.

Merrel has a brand history since 1981 and is sold worldwide. Indeed, their goal is to offer the most comfortable products to their customers. They will do everything possible so that each client is satisfied.

Their products include a variety of sports shoes, running shoes, water shoes, boots, cotton shoes, slippers, sandals, etc., and various colors and sizes to choose from, which can meet your needs.

This particular model features an elastic band quick release. It is easy to adjust the shoes to your feet comfortably and to put on and take off shoes.

The upper part is made of stretch fabric for breathability and comfort. The shoe midsoles with air circulation, making it more comfortable support for the feet.

It is supported by a high-quality rubber outsole, resistant to wear, non-slip, soft, and comfortable. Reduces foot pressure and reduces fatigue when walking.

The sole has deep textures to facilitate more grip on water sports, and the shoes are fast to dry on, suitable for various occasions and water sports.

Features of these water shoes:

• Made of Fabric and vegan-friendly material
• Imported Quality
• Vibram sole
• Lace-up hiking shoe with branding details featuring breathable mesh and durable synthetic upper
• Omni-Fit lacing system
• Molded TPU heel counter, Breathable mesh lining with odor-preventing M Select FRESH technologies
• Cushioned and protective UniFly midsole
• TC5+ Vibram outsole with 5 mm lug depth

6- Hey Dude, Men’s Wally Braided Vegan Loafer

Hey, Dude is designed for maximum comfort on any outdoor occasion. With the latest anti-skid design, it becomes comfortable non-slip shoes and wears resistance.

It has excellent stability. With arch support, it will give you great safety performance, allowing you to walk freely on a smooth surface.

The vamp material is beautiful with a delicate and clear texture with flexible folding.

The midsoles are comfortable and soft, breathable for sweaty feet, and deodorize. The outsole is non-slip and wear-resistant, with great flexibility.

This model has great craftsmanship with simple and beautiful hand sewing. It is both strong and firm for last long use.

These vegan arch support shoes are ideal for driving, walking, eating, shopping, traveling, hiking, traveling, working indoors, short weekend travel days, or any outdoor exercise, office, fishing, summer party, and daily use.

The shoes have a simple solid color with a casual British style to better combine with your dress.

You can delve into the comfort of all day with these elegant loafers. It has superior style and comfort, perfect for work, driving, and casual occasions.

Features of the Loafers :

• Vegan-friendly Fabric
• Imported Quality
• Embrace the cold weather with Hey Dude™ Wally Braided loafer.

7- DADAWEN Men’s Casual Canvas Lace Up Oxfords Shoes

For a look that will never go out of style, the DADAWEN men’s canvas lace-up shoe is a must-have wardrobe staple for today’s gentlemen.

Classic style, sporty look, easy wearing, breathable material oozing ultimate fashion trend, DADAWEN men’s canvas lace-up Oxford shoes offer a perfect blend of comfort and style.

Designed by the top brand, the shoe is ultimate craftsmanship to hold. Matched with a breathable lining and cushioned that keeps your feet odor-free and dry.

These custom-made vegan shoes ensure that every step you take will make you feel the perfect canvas knitted for personal expression.  The neutral shade easily complements the lively shades in your wardrobe.

Throw a sweater during winters, or wear a polo shirt in summers or wish to mix and match with jeans for a more casual look; the shoes let you flaunt your style, putting the least amount of effort while dressing up.

Suitable for varied occasions, it is a great shoe for a casual gathering or to wear at the workplace; this pure hand-made, high-quality canvas shoe is slip-resistant and doesn’t get loose, which makes it the most comfortable and breathable footwear for the day.

Overall, designed out of the finest canvas, offering you comfort, durability, and style, DADAWEN men’s canvas lace-up shoes have all the unique characteristics which make them unique. Why not go for it and feel the difference it makes.

Best Vegan Shoes/Sandals for  Women

1- Teva Women’s Verra Sandal

Did you know that sandals with softer surfaces can be detrimental to health? Therefore, Teva Women’s Verra Sandal has a firmer density, getting close to the sensation of walking barefoot.

This flat surface is more consistent and seeks the correct growth of the muscular and osseous structure of the woman and the maintenance of the arches of adults in general.

The ShocPad technology avoids problems such as spurs, pain, and other deficiencies in the postural sustentation of the body.

It is completely washed and ready to use sandals. Teva describes this creation as a vegan sandal made of high-quality textiles and synthetic.

Their true greatness, however, lies in what is not so easy to see with the naked eye. The straps, the midsole, and the sole are from 100% vegan-friendly material.

If you are looking for a simple but sustainably produced woman sandal, you are in the right place.

The feature of the sandals such as:

• 100% Textile and Synthetic
• Imported quality
• Synthetic sole
• The shaft measures approximately 1.31″ from arch
• The heel measures approximately 0.75.”
• Platform measures approximately 0.25
• Water-ready sandal featuring two hook-and-loop for adjustability and heel pull-on loop
• Shock-absorbing ShocPad technology, Microban zinc-based odor-resistant treatment
• Contoured EVA footbed supports your arch to keep your foot happy and healthy
• Spider Rubber outsole for traction and durability

2- Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling 2

The material of the sole of this finger separator is equal to the yoga mat, high quality, soft, comfortable, and durable. With these sandals, you become the focus of the beach or the city’s street.

Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling 2 is specifically designed for Yoga purposes. Did you notice that the sole of this model has a format with V curves?

These curves were inspired by fox footsteps in the snow and simulated the anti-slip effect.

This type of sole is also found in the “boat shoes,” shoes used in boats and sailing competitions, whose surfaces are more slippery by constant contact with water. Ideal for all types of flexible moves.

• Made of 100% Textile
• Imported Quality
• Synthetic sole
• Platform measures approximately 0.25
• Thong flip-flop featuring fabric straps and padded yoga-mat footbed

But Why Should You Buy Vegan Shoes from SANUK?

• For the animals – vegan sandals avoid using leather and are against animal hunting.
• For the environment – the material comes from sustainable and resource-saving animal-free materials.
• For people – sandals that are free of toxins and allergens

Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling 2 expresses a conscious lifestyle and sustainable consumption.

It is when aesthetics and ethics unite – their vegan sandals are honest, durable, and comfortable.

3- TOMS Women’s Jutti Ballet Flat

TOMS Women’s Jutti Ballet Flat shoes emphasize comfort and fun. They are made of exceptional materials and sleek design.

Every pair of ballet flats are an affordable luxury that cleverly blends a youthful perspective with a worldly sensibility.

More and more shoe manufacturers are exploring ways to replace the leather and other animal products with alternative materials and work practices.

There are hardly any limits to creativity with these women’s vegan sneakers. In addition to classic materials such as imitation leather, cotton canvas, and rubber, completely new materials are used.

Vegan shoes are in demand, and they are glad to present you with an ever-growing collection of high-quality and classically designed shoes. The features of the shoes are:

• 100% Fabric or Textile
• Imported Quality
• Synthetic vegan-friendly sole
• Shaft measures approximately not_applicable” from arch
• Pointed toe flat
• Suede/textured velour mix upper
• Anti-microbial sockliner
• Custom TOMS molded rubber outsole

The quality of the shoes is very good; the fabric is firm and comfortable to wear. The shoes are very tight and cut very small. It will fit your feet very well and feel like you are dancing ballet barefoot.

4- Chaco Women’s ZX/2 Yampa Sandal

They are suitable for aquatic adventures, thanks to their hydrophobic lining and their ventilated design, guaranteeing that your feet will stay dry and comfortable.

Chaco material and fancy straps make the sandals feminine and style practical.

It’s designed for sports, which allows air circulation and water drainage. It is ready for adventures in the water and on land.

The non-marking, anti-slip rubber sole with grip provides firmness and safety, also on wet surfaces. Textile material, cinch straps, and hydrophobic lining make the sandals an ultimate choice for outdoor activities

It has adjustable straps with durable closure and a tech lite midsole with upper cushioning. The midsole allows effective air circulation and water drainage

• 100% Textile
• Synthetic sole
• The heel measures approximately 1.”
• Strappy nylon sandal featuring adjustable buckle closure
• Jacquard webbing double straps with toe loop
• LUVSEAT PU footbed with slip-resistant diamond pattern
• Non-marking Vibram outsole

Chaco Women’s ZX/2 Yampa Sandals are designed with performance, comfort, and poppy strap design. They are true, made for the adventure you choose.

These walking sandals are agile, fast, and versatile. Of course, they are the perfect sandals for this summer, keeping them soft on the feet, absorbing the heat, and being adaptable to water.

5- JENN ARDOR Penny Loafers for Women

The shoes have a leather upper. They comfortably fit your feet. Also, the shoes have a non-slip sole.

These versatile formal loafers have a classic design but with a contemporary style. The perforated sole gives maximum breathability and comfort.

The foam insole ensures cushioning and comfort for the whole day. The resistant and flexible outer band always offers adequate adhesion. JENN ARDOR’s durable rubber sole is the result of exclusive production.

It combines the perforated sole, a resistant material, breathable leather, and a waterproof membrane.

As a result, it allows natural temperature regulation, creating an ideal microclimate inside the shoe that manages to keep the foot dry throughout the day.

These shoes are suitable for driving, walking, going out, shopping, traveling, company, and party. They are available in various color choices to better match your dress.

The vamp material is comfortable, delicate, and flexible. Additionally, the casual British style produces simple, pure color with classic bowknot decoration. They are overall light and flexible.

Features of the product:

• Penny loafer shoes are made from man-made leather.
• Slip-on flats color black, white, and gold are available.
• These comfortable loafers are perfect for any outfit. It can be worn around the house and office or walk with them shopping the whole day and not get tired.
• Modern fashion loafers feature comfortable bottoms and soft man-made leather that won’t slip when walking.
• Fit true to size for most standard US sizes; if you are unsure about size, you can measure your foot’s length and pick the right size.

6- Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vegan Hiking Shoe

Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vegan Hiking Shoe is another great premium quality imported shoe that is made up of the most comfortable Vibram sole.

These vegan shoes are known for their Merrell Air Cushion in the heel, which is highly efficient in absorbing shock, thereby providing better stability while walking and running.

These vegan orthopedic shoes for women come with a shaft that measures approximately low-top from the arch.

Get that expensive look with this non-pricey footwear; that has been designed using premium 100% vegan materials that have smooth interior linings.

7- Marco Republic Oslo Women’s Stacked Heels Ankle Booties Boots

The Marco Republic Oslo women’s perforated cutout chunky block stacked heels ankle boots are designed keeping in mind the young mind’s fashion sense.

What you’ll love about these boots is you never really want to take them off because they are simple enough to wear with most of your wardrobe.

Crafted to provide you comfort with a padded footbed and cushioned insole, ensuring that you are at ease and relaxed while wearing it for the whole day.

Fashioned using no animal product, this is a vegan-friendly shoe complying with the environmental standards ensuring that it is the brand you could trust knowing you are buying premium-class footwear.

These vegan leather boots are designed out of premium-class faux leather that has perforated cutout accents, and a zipper closer gives that trendy look to the wearer.

The footwear has a non-skid traction sole; offering added stability to the wearer. The heel is only 1 to 1.5 inches; hence can be worn without any discomfort or difficulty.

MarcoreRepublic brand is committed to bringing trendy footwear available at a great value that is easy to complement your day-to-day lifestyle.

If you have to choose just one pair; make it the Marco Republic Oslo women’s boots; they’re comfortable, chic, and extremely convenient.

8- Outwoods Women’s Bork-30 Vegan Leather Slide On Toe Loop Sandals

This fun and flirty sandal by Outwoods comes with synthetic material which is most comfortable.

It features a stylish vegan leather strap construction with coordinating buckles which makes it one of the most favorite for people who are on the go.

Furthermore, its faux cork midsole and a soft molded footbed comfortably cradle your foot for that all-day stressful travel.

Above all, the slip-on design of this vegan sandal for easy on and off is complemented with adjustable buckles, which ensures a great fit. Just put them on and get ready for your next walk.

Benefits Of Using Vegan Orthopaedic Shoes

Not only do vegan-friendly shoes help you to look stylish and fashionable, but they can also help to provide a number of other health and wellness benefits in the process.

You see, specially-created vegan orthopedic shoes can provide support for the arches and help prevent and alleviate pain in the foot in a variety of different ways.

Here are some key benefits associated with vegan orthopedic shoes.

1- Improved circulation –

One little-known benefit associated with orthopedic shoes is the fact that they help to improve circulation and enhance blood flow.

The vegan-friendly running shoes are designed so as to not place any unnecessary pressure upon the blood vessels, which means that blood is able to pump freely through your feet without being restricted.

Having better circulation means that you will not feel the cold as much, you will have more energy, and your feet will function more efficiently as well.

2- Prevents/reduces foot pain –

If you have ever experienced pain in the foot before, you’ll know all too well how painful it can be.

Foot pain, whether caused by inappropriate footwear or just because, can make life miserable, and nobody wants that.

Each day, the average person will perform anything from 5,000 steps to 10,000 steps.

That’s a lot of steps, and if your current shoes are ill-fitting and are causing pain and discomfort, you’ll want to get this issue rectified as soon as you can.

Vegan orthopedic shoes have been specially designed to allow people’s toes to move around freely as they walk.

They also provide plenty of room inside so that your feet don’t rub against the sides of your shoes.

They are also designed to prevent the heel from forcing your feet into unnatural positions while wearing the shoes.

What does this mean? Well, all of this combined means that you experience significantly less pain and discomfort in and around the feet.

3- Provides support –

Wearing shoes that do not support the arches is a recipe for disaster.

Vegan orthopedic shoes have been specially created to provide the ultimate levels of comfort and support for the arches whilst simultaneously cushioning the heels and helping to realign the foot in the process.

This is very important because, without these levels of support, your feet would be susceptible to a wide range of issues, including plantar fasciitis and flat foot.

These issues will not only cause pain and discomfort, but they may also negatively impact your quality of life in the process.

4- Improved mobility –

If your current footwear is negatively affecting your mobility levels, or if you are dealing with limited mobility and flexibility in and around the foot, wearing vegan orthopedic shoes is incredibly beneficial.

You see, eco-friendly shoes have been designed to provide comfort and support while helping to alleviate pain and discomfort.

If your feet can move freely, without you suffering from any pain or uncomfortableness, your mobility levels and flexibility levels will almost certainly improve as well.

If you struggle to walk and bend your feet in certain directions, this can, of course, has a very negative impact on your levels of mobility. Vegan orthopedics, however, help to resolve this in a simple and effective manner.

5- They look great –

Okay, this benefit isn’t necessarily related to providing support for the arches or for alleviating foot pain, but it’s that great that we couldn’t include it. In the past, orthopedic shoes, well, they were ugly.

You’ve heard the expression ‘bowling shoe ugly, yet, to be honest, orthopedic shoes decades ago made bowling shoes look like a stylish pair of Italian designer loafers.

Nowadays, however, technology has changed, science has advanced, and our tastes have thankfully improved.

Vegan orthopedic shoes that are available nowadays look just as attractive as any designer shoe you will find on the High Street, with the added bonus of them actually feeling comfortable and helping you to walk and lead a pain-free life.

6- They’re vegan-friendly –

In the past, if you were vegan but suffered from foot issues, you either had to wear orthopedic footwear that may have contained animal-derived ingredients, or you simply went without and sadly had to suffer in silence.

Because of the huge advancements in modern medicine and science, however, it is now possible to purchase orthopedic shoes that are 100% vegan-friendly.

To sum up, some of the best characteristics of vegan shoes include the following:

• Lightweight
• Durable
• Soft and smooth
• Simple to clean
• Scratch-resistant
• Great breathability
• Quality finish
• Stylish
• Odour-free
• Non-fading
• Clean and sterile
• Stylish and attractive

Other Best Vegan Shoe Brands You Will Love To Shop

Vegan-friendly shoes for men and women are not only comfortable but also good for many health conditions related to foot and ankle.

Now, if you are planning to buy the best vegan shoes online, you may choose among the best popular vegan shoe brands that are completely Eco-friendly and genuine.

Some of the other best brands you may consider when buying breathable vegan shoes are:

1. Beyond Skin
2. Bourgeois Boheme
3. Cri de Coeur
4. Elizabeth’s Kind Cafe
5. Form & Fauna
6. Freerangers
7. Kailia
8. Mohop
9. Neuaura
10. Noharm
11. Novacas
12. Olanthe
13. Olsenhaus
14. Vegetarian Shoes
15. Zoe & Zac

Things To Check When Buying Eco-Friendly Vegan Shoes

Before we wrap things up, we’ll leave you with a series of things to check to ensure that the vegan orthotic shoes you plan to purchase are indeed Eco-friendly and vegan-friendly, just as the manufacturers claim.

A few things to watch out for include:

• Check the soles of the shoes and look for vegan stickers and labels
• Ask for recommendations from trusted sources
• Do your research and look into the manufacturing company
• Examine the shoes and smell the material (real leather has an unmistakable scent)
• Look at the brand and see which ones have vegan options
• Ask the company if you aren’t sure about whether its the best alternative to leather shoes

Incoming search terms:

• best vegan shoes for men
• vegan orthotic shoes for women
• best vegan wonens sandals