As
discussions arise about climate change and ethical labor, the demand for
sustainably and ethically made products is higher than ever. This is especially
evident in the footwear sector. Today’s consumers are seeking shoes that not
only are stylish and comfortable, but also reflect their values. And,
fortunately for consumers, many shoe brands today have evaluated and chosen to
make and design their shoes with both environmentally-friendly footprints and
ethical standards and make no compromises in comfort and style.
In this
article, a highlight will be shared about some top sustainable and ethical shoe
brands that demonstrate how style, comfort, and designation can all coexist.
Veja: Transparency with Every Step
Veja,
although based in France, is considered an international sustainable sneaker
brand. Veja has proven to be sustainable in sourcing - using organic cotton
from Brazil, wild rubber sourced from the Amazon Rainforest that is sustainably
harvested, and using a transparent sourcing model throughout their supply
chain. Veja exemplifies that fashion and sustainability can coexist in reducing
the impact on the planet. They make a minimalist trendy sneaker that appeals to
fashionable consumers.
Allbirds: Naturally Comfortable
Allbirds,
a trans-Tasman/American brand, is well-known for making shoes in a utilitarian
way by utilizing materials from nature, such as merino wool, nothing less to
make the whole shoe, eucalyptus tree fiber, and sugarcane for the sole.
Allbirds shoes are extremely lightweight and made for breathability, making
them some of the most comfortable shoes on the market.Allbirds also features
carbon neutral production based on materials sourcing and renewable energies.
Ethletic: Ethical from Start to Finish
Ethletic,
based in Germany, is a great choice for those looking for ethically, and
completely sustainably made sneaker. They use Fairtrade-certified cotton and
FSC certified natural rubber, and all their shoes are made in fair wage
initiatives. Ethletic doesn't just want to reduce their carbon footprint,
they also invest directly into social development programs, in the communities
where they produce their products.
Toms: Giving Back with Every Pair
Famous
for its “One for One” giving model, Toms continues to grow in their
organization with sustainability as a major pillar in their business. The brand
began with alpargatas (slip-ons), they were known as Toms Shoes, and now Toms
has become a form of all different types of shoes for all different types of
needs. Toms is still working to use earth-friendly materials and minimize waste
while still giving back ⅓ of their profits to former good causes grass-roots
level.
Nisolo: Conscious Craftsmanship
For real
leather shoes with a classic look that are comfortable, fashionable, and
ethically produced, look no further than Nisolo. Nisolo is a Nashville based
company that makes shoes in Peru and Mexico. All workers receive a living wage,
and their safety and wellbeing are prioritized. Nisolo shoes are made to last-
they are not trendy or fast fashion. They are timeless and handmade and create
less of a need to purchase poorly constructed shoes that will have to be
replaced sooner than later.
Thousand Fell: The Zero-Waste Sneaker
Thousand
Fell is changing the sneaker space with its fully recyclable shoes. They are
made of natural, sustainable products like aloe vera, coconut husks and
recycled rubber, are designed to be returned to recycle at the end of their
life. Circular model eliminates excess waste to landfills, and rewards the
consumer for being a part of the recycle process.
Why Ethical Footwear Matters
Choosing
sustainable and ethical footwear is not a fad but a significant decision that
has a tangible effect. The following are some good reasons to start making the
transition to ethical and sustainable footwear:
·
Lowers Environmental Impact: Traditional
shoe-making is often an overly chemically intensive and resource thirsty way to
produce shoes. Ethical brands minimize the impact they leave on the earth with
their eco-friendly materials and sustainable processes.
·
Promotes Fair Labor: Ethical footwear brands
have made it their main focus to source shoes from companies that are open
about how and where their shoe is made, which looks at good working conditions
and fair wages for their workers.
·
Better for the Feet and the Earth: Some
sustainable shoes are made with natural materials that help with overall foot
health that are comfortable (breathable), good for allergies (hypoallergenic),
and last longer than synthetics.
The Future is Foot-Conscious
As
consumers consciously choose what they purchase, or become more ethical in
their purchases, the sustainable shoe trend will continue to increase.
Thankfully, there are more brands—from these large household names to smaller,
newer brands—that have established an alternative.
Whether
you're suiting up for a meeting, or lacing on your boots for a weekend hike, we
are now seeing sustainable shoe options for nearly every situation. And the
best part is, you won't be sacrificing comfort and style.
So next
time you find yourself trying to fill that hole in your shoe closet, you can do
so while also supporting a brand that looks and feels good but has a mission
around ethics and sustainability. The future begins with taking a step.
