What does sustainability have to do with shoes? Take a look at these recycled shoe brands to find out.
But first let’s understand what the problem is.
What is the environmental problem with shoes?
It turns out those things we wear on our feet every day have some pretty hefty environmental impacts. From the sourcing of raw materials like rubber, leather, and plastics through the manufacturing process, transportation, use, and then the waste generated when they reach the end of their useful life. Shoes have a significant contribution to environmental impacts.
- In 2015, over 20 billion pairs of shoes were produced worldwide.
- Almost half of the footwear exported worldwide is made from rubber or plastic.
- In 2018 an average of 5.6 pairs of shoes were purchased by individuals in North America.
- It can take up to 1000 years for shoes to decompose fully.
Shoes contribute to our waste problems in several different ways. Here are some key waste issues caused by shoes:
- Manufacturing Waste: The production of shoes generates significant waste. This includes offcuts, scraps, and rejected materials during the manufacturing process. These waste materials, often made of various synthetic materials and plastics, can end up in landfills if not properly managed.
- Short Lifespan and Disposal: Many shoes are designed for short-term use or fashion trends, it’s basically fast fasion for your feat. This leads to people replacing their shoes frequently and therefore a high turnover rate.
- Slow decomposition: When shoes reach the end of their life cycle, they’re often discarded in landfills. Due to their composition of synthetic materials, such as rubber, plastics, and foams, shoes take a long time to decompose and contribute to the growing volume of waste in landfills.
- Toxicity and Hazardous Waste: The manufacturing of shoes involves the use of many chemicals, dyes, and glues, some of which can be hazardous to human health and the environment. Improper disposal of these chemicals and production by-products can lead to water and soil contamination, affecting ecosystems and local communities.
- Packaging Waste: Shoes are typically packaged in boxes, wrappers, and other materials that contribute to packaging waste. The excessive use of single-use plastics and non-recyclable packaging materials adds to the overall waste generated by the footwear industry.
Why buy sustainable shoes
Addressing these waste problems requires sustainable practices throughout the footwear industry. This includes adopting circular economy models, using eco-friendly materials, designing shoes for durability and repairability, implementing efficient manufacturing processes, and promoting recycling and responsible disposal of shoes at the end of their life cycle. Fortunately, many brands are taking on this challenge and making changes across the entire lifecycle of shoes.
As consumers, we can also play a part by choosing quality, long-lasting shoes and responsibly disposing of our old shoes through recycling programs or donations. You can learn more about how to dispose of your old shoes here.
Another great way is to purchase sustainable shoes from brands that use recycled content, reduce their use of natural resources, replace plastic with natural materials where possible and even better take your shoes back to be recycled.
Below are some of the Recycled Shoe Brands that are making the right changes to help us reduce our overall impact.
Want to learn more about what shoes are made from and how to recycle them? Check out our other articles here:
Our Favorite Recycled Shoe Brands
Cariuma
Brazilian shoe company Cariuma is known for using sustainable materials including bamboo, cork, natural rubber, and organic cotton. The brand ensures that a large percentage of the material in their footwear is recycled PET, using recycled plastic bottles to make the laces, labels, uppers, and threads of its shoes. They are certified by the Global Recycling Standard and partner with environmentally conscious companies to plant a ten trees in the Brazilian rainforest for each pair of sustainable sneakers sold.
The brand ships its shoes in 100% recycled and recyclable packaging and purchases carbon offsets for every single shoe it ships, making the shipping and transportation of all Cariuma products 100% carbon neutral. Their most popular products include the Ibi shoes with a bamboo upper and the Catiba Pro skate shoes with a sticky grip outsole made from raw natural gum rubber and memory foam interior.
Vivaia
VIVAIA is a sustainable footwear brand that produces shoes made from recycled plastic bottles, wool, and rubber. Their shoes feature a foam insole that keeps feet free of moisture and bacteria while providing long-term cushioning. They offer a wide range of styles, including flats, heels, sneakers, mules, sandals, loafers, and boots, all of which are machine-washable for easy cleaning. VIVAIA’s sustainable approach extends beyond their materials to their production process, which is low-waste and partly powered by renewable energy. They also use 100% recycled cardboard for their packaging and donate to charitable causes with each purchase. Overall, VIVAIA’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness is reflected in every aspect of their recycled shoe products.
Vivaia is a sustainable shoe brand that transforms recycled plastic bottles into stylish and comfortable footwear for both men and women. Their signature thread is made from PET bottles from the ocean, and each pair of shoes contains about six of them. Vivaia’s shoes come in a variety of styles, including flats, heels, sneakers, mules, sandals, loafers, and boots, and are machine and hand washable. The brand also uses other sustainable materials like wool and herbal PU foam insoles, carbon-free rubber outsoles, and natural latex rubber or recyclable TPE yoga mat midsoles. Vivaia’s production process is low-waste, and their factory is partly powered by renewable energy. The brand also uses 100% recycled cardboard for their packaging. In addition to their sustainable practices, Vivaia donates $5 to SOS Children’s Village for every pair of Avis flats sold. If you’re looking for eco-friendly footwear that’s stylish, comfortable, and sustainable, Vivaia is the brand for you.
Thousand Fell
Recycled shoe brand Thousand Fell is a sustainable shoe company that takes full responsibility for their products from cradle to grave. They use a mix of recycled plastic and natural, biodegradable materials in their shoes, including recycled plastic bottles, recycled rubber, old yoga mat material, and even food waste such as castor beans and coconut husks.
Thousand Fell’s motto is “made to last and built to recycle,” and their aim is to create a ‘library’ of sustainable materials which can be used to make shoes. They also offer a $20 credit for returning your shoes at the end of their useful life and offer recycling services for your old clothes and foowear, offering credits on new purchases.
Their shoes are stain-proof due to a natural quartz-based coating, and they are designed to be comfortable and stylish. Thousand Fell offsets their carbon footprint and replenishes the water they use to minimize their environmental impact. They are a member of 1% for the planet, and they will soon launch a platform to track the progress of used shoes. Overall, Thousand Fell’s approach to sustainability and use of recycled materials make them stand out in the eco-friendly shoe market.
Deux Mains
Recycled shoe brand Duex Mains was created after the devastating earthquake that decimated Haiti in 2010. After witnessing the devastation, Julie, the founder, wanted to create a brand that would honor the ancestral wisdom, talent, and perseverance of the Haitian people while helping them rebuild.
The fashion label is focused on sustainable luxury goods that are good for people and the planet. Supporting Deux Mains means you support safe working conditions, liveable wages, and health and education for the people of Haiti. The company is female-owned, runs on solar power, and chooses materials with circularity in mind.
Oka B
Established in 2005, Oka B is known for its innovative use of materials and eco-friendly manufacturing processes. One of the standout features of Oka B shoes is the use of a proprietary material called Microplast, a form of recyclable, non-toxic synthetic material. This material is not only durable and water-resistant but also soft and flexible, providing a comfortable and supportive fit.
In addition to their eco-friendly materials, Oka B prioritizes wellness by incorporating massage beads and arch support into their designs. These features provide gentle massaging effects and promote proper foot alignment and comfort.
All shoes are made in the USA from bio-based material containing 45% soy and BPA, latex, rubber, and phthalate free. In fact, the average pair of Oka-B sandals contains 15-25% recycled material. Plus, if you return your well-loved and worn-out Oka-B shoes to their factory, they will recycle them for you.
Sole Footwear
Another recycled shoe brand, SOLE Footwear, is known for its innovative and ergonomic approach to footwear. The company, which was established in 2001, is committed to making supportive, cozy shoes that put foot health first. What sets SOLE apart is its focus on customizable insoles. They offer heat-moldable footbeds made from eco-friendly materials that enable wearers to get a custom fit and the best support. The heat-molding process molds the insoles to the unique shape of the wearer’s feet, promoting alignment, stability, and reducing strain.
In addition, SOLE incorporates sustainable practices in its manufacturing. They use recycled cork, natural latex, and other environmentally friendly materials to create their products. This commitment to sustainability extends to their packaging, which is made from recycled and biodegradable materials.
SOLE Footwear is a great choice if you are seeking footwear that prioritizes both comfort and sustainability.
Ponto
Ponto Footwear is a contemporary footwear brand that combines style, comfort, and sustainability. Their mission is to offer a balance between fashion-forward design and responsible manufacturing practices. Ponto Footwear focuses on creating shoes that are both comfortable and versatile for everyday wear. Their designs often feature clean lines, minimalist aesthetics, and thoughtful details that cater to modern tastes.
The brand prioritises the use of sustainable materials, including recycled and upcycled fabrics, to reduce their environmental impact. They even have a resale shop where you can buy used pontos to keep shoes in use as long as possible. Their soles are made from a plant-based foam produced with algae biomass and their outsoles from sugarcane foam. They also use upcycled material in their shoes including regenerated tencel fabric lining made from eucalyptus, oak, and birchwood that is biodegradable.
Ponto is committed to ethical production practices, ensuring fair labor conditions throughout their supply chain.
Eileen Fisher
Founded in 1984 by Eileen Fisher, the brand has established itself as a leader in ethical and environmentally conscious fashion.
Eileen Fisher’s clothing and accessories collections focus on clean lines, simplicity, and versatility. The brand emphasizes comfort without compromising style, offering clothing that can effortlessly transition from day to night or work to play.
The brand creates garments that minimize the environmental impact and promote social responsibility. Their shoes use a stretch knit made from recycled plastic bottles.
Eileen Fisher has also established a take-back program that allows customers to return their used garments for recycling or resale. This initiative helps to create a circular fashion economy and reduce textile waste.
Vivobarefoot Shoes
Vivobarefoot is a minimalist footwear brand that promotes the natural shape and movement of the foot. Their shoes are flexible, wide, and thin, allowing wearers to feel the ground and promoting the foot’s natural strength. Vivobarefoot is committed to sustainability, using recycled plastic, leather, and Merino wool in their shoes. They also source their leather from free-roaming cattle raised in small-scale farms and use Woolmark-certified Merino wool.
Additionally, the company is a B corporation and created ReVivo, an online marketplace for refurbished barefoot shoes. Vivobarefoot’s commitment to sustainability can be seen in their use of recycled post-consumer plastic waste and algae bloom insoles, as well as their vegan styles.
Saola
Saola Footwear is an innovative footwear brand that combines style, comfort, and sustainability. Founded with a mission to create eco-friendly shoes, Saola is committed to minimizing its environmental impact throughout its production processes. The brand uses recycled and organic materials in their shoes, including recycled plastic bottles, algae foam, and natural cork.
In addition to their sustainable practices, Saola places an emphasis on creating comfortable and versatile footwear. Their shoes feature ergonomic designs, cushioned footbeds, and flexible soles to provide optimal support for all-day wear. Saola offers a range of styles, including sneakers and casual shoes, that appeal to individuals seeking both fashion and sustainability. By choosing Saola Footwear, consumers can enjoy footwear that treads lightly on the planet.
Timberland
A well-known footwear and clothing company, Timberland is famous for its rugged outdoor aesthetic and commitment to sustainability. Established in 1973, Timberland has become synonymous with durable, high-quality footwear that combines functionality with fashion. The company is most known for their recognisable yellow labour boots.
Timberland’s shoes are built to withstand harsh conditions and provide optimal performance. They’re made with high-quality components, such as full-grain leather and sturdy fabrics, ensuring long-lasting durability. Timberland incorporates innovative technologies like waterproof membranes and anti-fatigue footbeds to enhance comfort and functionality.
Additionally, the brand has made significant strides in sustainability, implementing initiatives such as using recycled materials in their products, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting community and environmental projects through their commitment to corporate social responsibility. For anyone looking for dependable, fashionable footwear that withstands the weather and is in line with their environmental principles, Timberland shoes are an excellent option.
Earth Shoes
Earth Shoes is a renowned footwear brand that combines comfort, style, and sustainability. With a rich history dating back to the 1970s, the brand gained recognition for its unique “negative heel” design, which promotes a natural walking motion and reduces strain on the body. However, Earth Shoes has evolved beyond its initial design concept to prioritize environmental responsibility. The brand utilizes sustainable materials like recycled fabrics and eco-friendly leathers, while implementing eco-conscious manufacturing processes such as the use of water-based adhesives. Their commitment to social responsibility extends to fair labor practices and supporting charitable initiatives. Earth Shoes is dedicated to creating footwear that not only cares for the well-being of its wearers but also minimizes its ecological footprint, making it a preferred choice for conscious consumers seeking both comfort and sustainability.
Allbirds
Allbirds is a sustainable shoe brand that has gained immense popularity for its unique designs, unmatched comfort, and eco-friendly approach. The brand uses natural and recycled materials such as merino wool, eucalyptus trees, sugarcane, recycled bottles, and castor bean oil to produce its shoes. Allbirds has even made the patent on its SweetFoam material public so that other brands can use it as a sustainable alternative. The company is committed to sustainability and has been certified as a B Corporation, which is a standard for ethical businesses balancing purpose and profit. Allbirds uses recycled cardboard for its packaging and provides carbon footprint information on its website for transparency. With a wide range of styles for both men and women, Allbirds is an excellent choice for those who want to invest in comfortable and environmentally conscious shoes.
Allbirds is a recycled shoe brand that utilizes natural and sustainable materials to minimize their carbon footprint. They are a certified B Corporation and are committed to environmental responsibility. Allbirds uses materials like merino wool, eucalyptus trees, and sugar cane to create their shoes. Their SweetFoam soles are made from a carbon-negative green EVA sourced from Proforest-certified Brazilian sugarcane, and their recycled running shoes combine natural materials with recycled plastic bottle laces and bio-based TPU eyelets. Allbirds ensures ethical sourcing of their materials, with ZQ-certified merino wool from New Zealand and TENCEL Lyocell from FSC-certified rain-fed South African farms. They also partner with Soles4Souls to donate lightly worn pre-loved pairs to communities in need. Allbirds’ unique approach to sustainability has made them a popular and innovative brand in the sustainable fashion industry.
Hylo Athletic
Hylo Athletic is a brand that only carries one signature style of vegan running sneakers, but it’s because they’re that good. The brand is committed to using sustainable and organic materials, including corn fibers, natural rubbers, organic cotton, and water-based glue. They even incorporate algae into their shoe production, which is a unique and eco-friendly material. Hylo Athletic also offers a shoe recycling program – if you return your shoes after use, they will recycle them and even share a $10 credit as a thank you. The brand’s mission is to create high-quality shoes that are good for both the wearer and the planet. With free US and UK delivery on all orders, get ready to run like the wind in these eco-conscious sneakers.
