When it comes to sustainable fashion, footwear is one of the most challenging items to produce ethically and dispose of responsibly. However, Sustainable Jungle is here to help, providing a list of the best sustainable boot brands available. These boots are not only functional but also beautiful, allowing consumers to enjoy the natural beauty of the planet without leaving a negative impact.
Sustainable Jungle independently researches all of the products they recommend and asks brands to confirm their claims. In addition, they test products on an as-needed basis to avoid waste. This article will provide a sneak peek at some of Sustainable Jungle’s favorite sustainable boots, ensuring that consumers can make an informed decision when it comes to their footwear choices.
Ethical & Fair Trade Boots Kicking Fast Fashion to the Curb
As the fashion industry continues to grow, so does its impact on the environment and the people involved in the production process. However, there are brands that are making a conscious effort to prioritize ethical and sustainable practices in their production of boots. Here are nine brands that are leading the way in creating fair trade boots that are both stylish and sustainable.
1. Bhava
Bhava is a cruelty-free and vegan shoe brand that produces a variety of footwear, including ethical boots. Their sustainable knee-high boots feature vegan leather uppers that are REACH-compliant and free of formaldehyde, phthalates, azo dyes, and chrome. Bhava’s sustainable women’s boots are handmade by one of two main manufacturing partners in Spain and India, which are personally vetted for safe working conditions. Bhava’s eco-friendly boots are made with natural rubber soles, eco-suede linings, cork insoles, and some heels made with wood.
2. Nisolo
Nisolo is a certified B-Corp that prioritizes ethical and sustainable practices in the production of their boots. Nisolo uses ethically-sourced leather that is a by-product of the meat industry, and they are looking into alternatives to bring vegan options into their range of footwear and sustainable handbags. Their sustainable winter boots feature standard suede and rubber combination, as well as weather-resistant leather in some of their dressier options like their sustainable booties. Nisolo has its own third-party audited factory in Trujillo, Peru, and partners with two other factories and groups of independent artisans in Mexico and Kenya, respectively. They not only offer fair trade premium perks, but an in-house skills development training program with classes on finances, health, nutrition, English, physical education, and yoga.
3. ABLE
ABLE is a fashion brand that prioritizes empowering women by creating job opportunities for them. Their sustainable ankle boots are made of upcycled various kinds of deadstock leather, including Napa, nubuck, microsuede, and crocodile. ABLE’s sustainable women’s boots also feature cotton laces and natural rubber soles. 90% of ABLE’s workforce are women, and their partners are based in Ethiopia, Brazil, Mexico, China, India, Portugal, and Tennessee. ABLE supports their staff by providing partial ownership in the company, full maternity coverage, options for 100% health coverage, and infertility and/or adoption assistance.
4. Christy Dawn
Christy Dawn is a sustainable fashion brand that features artisan-made and deadstock fabric. Their sustainable boots are made with vegetable-tanned leather uppers and natural rubber soles. Christy Dawn’s eco-friendly boots are handmade in small batches by artisans in Mexico, and the brand prioritizes fair wages and ethical working conditions for their workers.
5. VIVAIA
VIVAIA is a sustainable shoe brand that uses recycled materials to create their footwear. Their sustainable boots are made with recycled plastic bottles and natural rubber soles. VIVAIA’s eco-friendly boots are also machine washable, making them easy to maintain and prolong their lifespan.
6. Thesus
Thesus is a sustainable fashion brand that features artisan-made and natural materials. Their sustainable boots are made with vegetable-tanned leather uppers and natural rubber soles. Thesus’s eco-friendly boots are handmade in small batches by artisans in Italy, and the brand prioritizes fair wages and ethical working conditions for their workers.
7. Sezane
Sezane is a fashion brand that features vegetable-tanned and chrome-free leather boots. Their sustainable women’s boots are made in Portugal and feature a variety of styles, including ankle boots, knee-high boots, and over-the-knee boots. Sezane prioritizes sustainable and ethical practices in their production process, including using eco-friendly materials and partnering with factories that prioritize fair wages and safe working conditions.
8. Matisse Footwear
Matisse Footwear is a fashion brand that features sustainable and vegan options in their footwear. Their sustainable boots are made with eco-friendly materials, including recycled leather and natural rubber. Matisse Footwear also prioritizes ethical practices in their production process, including partnering with factories that prioritize fair wages and safe working conditions.
9. NAE
NAE is a sustainable shoe brand that features vegan and eco-friendly footwear. Their sustainable boots are made with eco-friendly materials, including recycled PET and natural rubber. NAE’s eco-friendly boots are also water-resistant and feature a variety of styles, including ankle boots, Chelsea boots, and knee-high boots. The brand prioritizes ethical practices in their production process, including partnering with factories that prioritize fair wages and safe working conditions.
In conclusion, these nine brands are leading the way in creating fair trade boots that are both
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How We Found The Best Sustainable Boots
When it comes to sustainable boots, there are several factors to consider, from the materials used to the supply chain and labor practices of the company. To find the most ethical boot companies, the team at our sustainable and ethical fashion guide conducted extensive research and analysis. Here are the key factors that were considered:
Materials
One of the most important factors in determining the sustainability of a boot is the materials used to make it. Leather is a popular option, but brands that offer ethical leather, such as leather that’s a byproduct of the meat industry or vegetable-tanned leather, are preferred. Recycled leather boots are even better.
In addition to leather, there are several other eco-friendly materials that can be used for boots, including sustainably harvested natural rubber, upcycled rubber, recycled polyester, and natural wood. Newer materials on the market, such as Piñatex made from pineapple leaf fibers and AppleSkin made from byproducts of the apple juice industry, are also gaining popularity.
When it comes to insoles, cork fabric is a popular choice because it’s antimicrobial and biodegradable. Many brands also use microsuede made of recycled materials or regular or organic cotton for lining.
Certifications from organizations such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), Leather Working Group (LWG), Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), OEKO-TEX, and Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and restriction of Chemicals (REACH) can also be a good indication of a brand’s commitment to using sustainable materials.
Supply Chain and Labor Practices
Fair trade practices are essential when it comes to ethical boot production. Brands that prioritize worker well-being by offering fair pay and additional support and benefits, such as healthcare and maternity leave, are preferred. Third-party audits and certifications, such as B Corporation (B Corp), Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit (SMETA), fair trade, Initiative for Compliance & Sustainability (ICS), WCA, and Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI), can also help ensure that a brand is committed to fair labor practices.
Carbon Commitments and Green Practices
Sustainability doesn’t end with sourcing eco-friendly materials. Brands that use carbon offset programs, engage in regenerative agriculture, or use eco-friendly packaging are taking additional steps to reduce their environmental impact. Factories and buildings that limit their water usage or utilize renewable energy are also preferred.
Community and Charitable Giving
Brands that give back to their communities or support charitable causes are highly valued. Donations to organizations, tree planting, and other forms of charitable giving are all positive indicators of a brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Final Thoughts on the Most Ethical Boot Companies
Investing in quality, eco-friendly boots is not only good for the environment, but it’s also a smart long-term investment. While there are many sustainable boot options available, it’s important to do your research and choose a brand that aligns with your values. By seeking out affordable ethical boots at local vintage shops or online thrift stores, you can make a positive impact on the environment and support sustainable fashion.
