Eco-Friendly Shoes: What They Are and Where Can I Find Them

The term “eco-conscious” refers to environmental awareness. Eco-conscious shoes are shoes manufactured with the environment in mind, by using sustainable, eco-friendly methods and materials. On a more general level, eco-conscious shoes can simply be footwear that lessens waste, such as wearing repaired or refurbished shoes rather than buying new ones.

Here are some characteristics of eco-conscious shoes, such as the materials used to make them, and where you can find them:

Types of Material

1. Hemp

This plant is a renewable source of resilient fiber traditionally used in manufacturing rope. It is a fast-growing plant that can be grown without pesticides. Its breathability makes it a good choice for shoes.

2. Organic cotton

This is cotton that is grown without the excessive pesticides used on conventional cotton. It is biodegradable and comfortable.

3. Bamboo

While this is often imported, it is renewable, plentiful, and it grows quickly without the use of pesticides. It also reduces odor in shoes.

4. Recycled plastic

Some eco-conscious shoe manufacturers use recycled plastic to make shoe laces and elastic.

5. Inner tubes

The rubber from the inner lining of big tires is used for the rubber soles of sneakers and athletic shoes.

6. Natural rubber

Natural rubber is made from the sap of the rubber tree, and is used to make shoe soles, elastic, and water-resistant fabric.

7. Carpet padding

Carpet padding is made for walking on! Recycled from discarded carpets, the padding makes comfortable, springy shoe soles.

8. Cork

Harvested from the inner bark of the tree without killing it, cork is antimicrobial (thus helping prevent odor), and has a spongy feel.

Where You Can Find Eco-Friendly Shoes

Here are some suggestions for sources of eco-friendly shoes.

–Amazon.com isn’t just about books anymore. Check out their collection of eco-friendly shoes, bags and other products.

-Sierra Trading Post (www.sierratradingpost.com) offers a wide variety of “green” shoes, boots and sandals.

-NeuAura (https://www.neuaurashoes.com/) offers animal-friendly shoes.

-Rawganique (https://www.rawganique.com/footwear.htm) sells shoes made in the U.S. from sustainable materials.

-Simple Shoes (https://www.simpleshoes.com/) has a “Green Toe” program that rates their shoes on a variety of sustainability levels.

-Local manufacturers are a really green option if there are shoemakers in your area. Or shop at a locally-owned business that carries eco-conscious footwear.

There is not necessarily a particular “look” to eco-conscious shoes; they are available in the same range of styles and types that conventional shoes are. But if you want a natural look to your shoes, or if you want to make a statement with your footwear, you’ll find eco-conscious footwear that fits that bill. You can even get creative and make your own!

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