10 Best Vegan Shoes (Review) In 2022

- The Best Vegan Shoe
- 1. Dr. Martens Vegan 1460 Smooth Combat Boot
- 2. Xero Xcursion Boot
- 3. Saucony Jazz Low Pro Vegan Sneaker
- 4. Xero Prio Running and Fitness Shoe
- 5. Sanuk Men’s Rounder Slip On
- 6. TOMS Men’s Paseo Sneaker
- 7. Sanuk Women’s Donna Hemp Flat
- 8. Xero Genesis Sandals
- 9. Dr. Martens Vegan Blaire Cambridge Fisherman Sandal
- 10. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Sneaker
Shopping for sustainable vegan footwear is becoming increasingly popular. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be vegan to shop more eco-consciously. Vegan shoes are usually more affordable, eco-friendly, and durable. So, many footwear brands have come with a variety of vegan shoes you can choose from and they are readily available on the market.
However, there are things you have to factor in when going vegan shoe hunting. Not sure where to begin? Work your way through our handy list and buying guide to pick out the best vegan shoes that are perfect for you.
The Best Vegan Shoe
1. Dr. Martens Vegan 1460 Smooth Combat Boot

Air-cushioned synthetic sole
Great abrasion and slip resistance
Goodyear welt stitching
Since its inception in 1947, Dr. Martens has maintained a stellar reputation for churning out premium quality footwear. Over the years, they have introduced into the market premium-quality footwear made from 100% vegan-friendly materials. The Dr. Martens Vegan 1460 Smooth Combat Boot underlines the core character and ideology of the Dr. Martens shoe brand with its classic finish and iconic air-cushioned sole.
The vegan boot was constructed using 100% vegan, high-shine synthetic material to produce a subtle two-tone finish and a classic feel. You’ll find that the build of this vegan boot comprises yellow stitching, grooved sides, and a yellow heel-loop to give it the most elegant look. Not just that, manufacturers of this masterpiece designed it in such a way that it is suitable for both men and women. No doubt, this is one of the few vegan shoes on the market that was built to last.
The manufacturers also utilized the Goodyear welt stitching technique to run the sewing around the perimeter of the shoe. Welt stitching has been affirmed on many fronts as the hallmark of excellent shoe construction. The air-cushioned sole of the Dr. Martens Vegan 1460 Smooth Combat Boot is oil-and-fat resistant and offers good abrasion and slip resistance.
In addition to that, the safety of your feet is greatly assured whenever you put on one of these elegant pieces. Altogether, the soft and supple synthetic material used in the construction of this premium vegan boot gives your feet all of the comfort it greatly deserves.
2. Xero Xcursion Boot

Lightweight build
Wide toe box
Flexible rubber sole with 5,000-mile sole warranty
The Xcursion boot is just one of the many premium vegan shoes manufactured by Xero Shoes. Manufacturers of this top of the line pair of shoes designed it to give the user a natural feel and comfort. If you’re looking for a simple, lightweight, and travel-friendly boot made from vegan-friendly materials, then the Xero Xcursion Boot is your safest bet.
The Xero Xcursion boot is a high-topped, fully waterproof hiking shoe perfect for all of your adventure needs. It is fitted with an improved durable upper material to help with the most difficult trails. More so, this vegan footwear is constructed using a minimalist design making it lightweight enough to make you almost forget you have them on. It also features a flexible rubber sole with a dual-chevron tread that offers you enough grip and allows your feet to move more naturally.
Not only that, but this high-end vegan running shoe is also acclaimed for its wide toe box that lets your toes relax naturally. In addition to that, it boasts of a non-elevated zero-drop heel to promote the right posture at all times. On top of this, it’s low to the ground design offers adequate agility and balance when worn. It’s also important you know that this affordable and durable hiking boot comes with a 5,000-mile sole warranty backed by Xero Shoes.
3. Saucony Jazz Low Pro Vegan Sneaker

Canvas and hemp upper
Soft textile lining and cushioning insole
Rubber traction outsole
Saucony is unarguably one of the most respected and trusted brands in the sportswear and sports goods industry. They specialize in delivering high-end and durable footwear, sports accessories, and sportswear. The foremost American footwear brand has come up with an almost perfect solution for your running needs with this lightweight vegan sneaker.
In fact, it was sturdily built to provide optimal balance and comfort while running. And of course, it does not contain animal products, derivatives or by-products. The Saucony Jazz Low Pro Vegan Sneaker is one of the best vegan running shoes on the market. Its upper part is constructed using durable slim-fitting canvas and hemp to give a stylish and classic finish. Then there’s its elegant appearance and retro vibe which makes it suitable for casual wear days.
The jazz low pro-vegan sneaker also checks the box in terms of comfort on many fronts. It features a soft textile lining and cushioning insole as well as a shock-absorbing midsole. What’s more, the collar and tongue have been padded quite nicely to give you a cozy fit. Here, the lace-up front is strategically placed for optimal fitting. All in all, the Saucony vegan sneaker offers you enough traction and balance while running due to its premium rubber traction outsole.
4. Xero Prio Running and Fitness Shoe

Adjustable heel straps
FeelTrue rubber sole technology
Wide toe box
Whether you’re going for a run, checking out a new hike trail, or going to the gym, this vegan shoe has got you covered in terms of performance, protection, and comfort. The high-performance minimalist Xero Prio Running and Fitness Shoe is designed using vegan-friendly materials to provide you the best running shoe ever. This vegan shoe is beautifully engineered to offer a natural fit with its innovative wide toe box. It also features Xero-drop technology which is fused perfectly into its non-elevated sole allowing for proper posture. The Prio running and fitness shoes incorporate a low to the ground construction to ensure adequate balance and agility. Wearing this masterpiece doesn’t impede your natural movement in any way. At the end of the day, this vegan shoe is designed to provide enough flexibility for your feet.
Plus, its lightweight and minimalist design makes you feel as if you are barefoot.
The Xero Prio Running and Fitness Shoe also features an improved FeelTrue rubber outsole to enhance your experience as well as offer maximum protection for your feet. It also comes with an optional 2mm insole to give you more options in terms of protection. What’s more, the heel strap is classy yet functional to keep your feet strapped in quite well. You’ll like that the instep straps are not sewn down making them adjustable and also giving your toes enough freedom to move.
5. Sanuk Men’s Rounder Slip On

65% cotton and 35% polyurethane
“No-ledge” rubber sole
Odor-absorbing insole
Sanuk is a world-renowned footwear manufacturing company widely acclaimed for its SustainaSole and rubbish reincarnated technology. Sanuk footwear is composed of recycled and sustainable materials and these vegan shows are reputed to deliver a substantial dose of comfort and durability.
The Sanuk Men’s Rounder Slip On itself is a premium eco-minded footwear made from 65% recycled cotton and 35% recycled polyurethane materials. This high-end footwear is your go-to vegan shoe for any casual or funky event. Interestingly, Sanuk is the Thai word for “fun”. The overall composition of this unique brand features a wider profile slip-on construction incorporated with a heavy canvas upper that has lightly frayed edges. The upper canvas is carefully wrapped around a mudguard to offer adequate protection for your feet.
The Sanuk Men’s Rounder Slip-On features a “no-ledge” rubber sole with an impressive toe detailing technology that makes the vegan footwear comfy enough for you. In addition to that, it features a high-rebound footbed made from ethylene-vinyl acetate material. More so, one of the more impressive features of this quality vegan shoe is its anti-microbial additive technology embedded in the insole. This feature helps to reduce odor-causing bacteria to keep your shoe smelling fresh at all times.
6. TOMS Men’s Paseo Sneaker

Lightweight and flexible
Durable rubber outsole
The removable padded footbed
TOMS are out to improve lives one way or the other. For every pair of shoes bought, they donate a brand new pair to a person in need. You’re not just saving the planet with these vegan sneakers but also offering comfort to the less fortunate. If you’re looking for classy and elegant footwear to complement your casual attire, then consider the TOMS Men’s Paseo Sneaker.
This is one of the classiest casual low-top vegan sneakers on the market. It features a canvas upper for a soft feel on the feet. Even more, there is a lace-up closure for a secure and adjustable fit. The great thing about the paseo sneakers is that you can wear them with or without laces for an easy slip-on.
On the inside, there is the textile lining for an enhanced comfy and natural feel. Not just that, there is also a cushioned footbed to provide comfort and support. The removable footbed is generously padded to help fight odor which is a plus. Down at the bottom, it’s fitted with a durable rubber outsole that is super lightweight and flexible to enable you to move around more freely. This rubber outsole is also designed to give you a great grip on surfaces.
7. Sanuk Women’s Donna Hemp Flat

Soft canvas upper
Breathable grommets
Padded EVA insole
With these new shoes from Sanuk, you can have style and comfort at the same time. Just as the name suggests, the Sanuk Women’s Donna Hemp Flat is exclusively designed for women. This vegan footwear is incredibly lightweight and constructed using vegetarian-friendly materials. What’s more interesting is that it is a hybrid of both a sandal and shoe, making it perfect for all your casual and fun attires.
The Donna Hemp Flat features a distressed canvas upper that creates some kickback casual style. It is also constructed using a laid-back hemp slip-on with frayed seams and breathable grommets on each side. The elastic band on the upper holds your feet firmly in the shoe and prevents it from coming off.
Furthermore, this high-end vegan shoe from Sanuk comes with an anti-microbial barrier to keep the shoe fresh, odor-free, and prevent deterioration.
The Donna Hemp Flat ticks the box in terms of comfort with a wonderful textile lining and a padded EVA insole to give you the comfiest feeling ever. In addition to that, the Sanuk vegan footwear has a cushy outsole that is durable and super lightweight. The cushy outsole equally features a unique tread pattern that gives you enough traction and balance.
8. Xero Genesis Sandals

Lightweight and minimalist construction
Nylon Achilles strap
5,000 sole mile warranty
From the stable of the world-renowned Xero brand comes this super minimalist vegan sandal suitable for travel, running, walking, jogging, and many more outdoor functions. The Xero Genesis Sandals is equipped with a 5mm FeelTrue durable rubber outsole that provides both comfort and protection for the feet. Not just that, the rubber outsole is designed to allow for natural movement for an optimum natural barefoot feel.
Most users like that the manufacturers also included a 5,000-mile warranty to cover the sole. Even more, its super minimalist and lightweight construction make it flexible enough to roll up and fit into your travel pack or pocket. This vegan footwear offers adequate comfort and protection whilst still offering the freedom of being barefoot. It has also been pre-laced so all you need to do is slide in your feet and go.
The Genesis Sandals holds sway in terms of enhanced protection for the feet with an easy-adjust lacing system. This feature secures your foot firmly and comfortably without pressure points. Unlike sandals with a flip flop, the Genesis sandals feature a super soft yet strong toe loop that is not only durable but also offers the toes enough flexibility.
The vegan-friendly sandal is equipped with a nylon Achilles strap for a firmer and comfortable grip. This top-end sandal also has a zero-drop non-elevated heel that gives you proper posture. Lastly, another stand-out feature of this Xero brand is that you can trim the sandals using a pair of scissors to match your foot shape and size.
9. Dr. Martens Vegan Blaire Cambridge Fisherman Sandal

Super-lightweight EVA Ziggy outsole
Durable Goodyear welt stitching
Adjustable non-leather buckle strap
This next premium footwear comes from the house of Dr. Martens. The Dr. Martens Vegan Blaire Cambridge Fisherman Sandal is an airy sandal with a slight wedge for increased height and a padded collar for an enhanced comfy feel. What’s more, the Blaire sandal is made from soft and supple synthetic materials making it 100% vegan.
Inside the sandal is a soft breathable man-made lining as well as a lightly cushioned footbed that also offers comfortable arch support. At the bottom is a new super-lightweight EVA Ziggy outsole designed with a ripple tread for more traction and protection. The sewing is further done using a sturdy and durable Goodyear welt stitching technique.
You would easily notice the Doc’s trademark visible yellow stitching and the groove edges which have a unique way of adding to the overall beauty of the Dr. Martens Blaire Sandals. This top of the line vegan sandals also feature an adjustable non-leather buckle strap strategically positioned at the ankle. The buckle strap helps in keeping your feet firmly in the sandals and to prevent it from slipping off.
10. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Sneaker

High-top vegan sneakers
Vulcanized rubber outsole
Medial eyelets for improved airflow
We round off our best vegan shoes review with this awesome fashionable sneaker. Just so you know, it was originally intended to be a basketball shoe but has now metamorphosed into plain fashion sneakers. Converse sneakers are arguably the most iconic casual sneakers in the world due to the classic silhouette style and quality finish. The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Sneaker is constructed using super lightweight and durable cotton canvas with double stitching going through the upper.
The shaft is high top and also features a rubber toe cap that allows for more flexibility in the toe area and generally prevents blisters. Further, this vegan sneaker has a vulcanized rubber outsole and is heat-treated to make it harder, more durable, and provide enough traction. In addition, the converse all-star high top sneaker has an ortholite insole for enhanced cushioning and comfy feel.
The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Sneaker features medial eyelets on each side for improved airflow and reduction of odor. You can confirm the authenticity of this vegan footwear by sighting the star-centered ankle patch.
Vegan Shoe Buying Guide
Features To Look For In Best Vegan Shoes
Materials - This is basically the first thing you should look out before settling for a brand. If you’re looking to purchase 100% vegan footwear, steer clear from materials that have their origin from animal products and by-products. It’s easier to spot fur, leather, and wool but more difficult to spot materials like felt and flannel.
One way to ascertain the type of material used in the construction is by reading the inner-shoe label. If you spot leather and coated leather icons, then that shoe is definitely not vegan. Also, when considering the material, pay close attention to the shoes’ inner linings and soles because some can be made from animal by-products.
Durability - Synthetic materials, like plant-based leather and polyurethane, are just as durable as genuine leather and shearling. Proper care and maintenance can keep your vegan-friendly shoes looking fresh for longer. Just so you know, footwear made from faux leather is extra-fitted with a plastic element to make them Water-resistant.
Most leading footwear brands make use of synthetic glues and bind in constructing their vegan shoes. This sort of adhesive is proven to be stronger, durable, and more affordable. So, before you buy any vegan shoe, conduct a proper background check on the product’s sturdiness and durability.
Fit - Wearing comfortable footwear can go as far as helping you prevent many foot ailments. It’s recommended that you have your feet measured before purchasing any footwear. Interestingly, most people have one foot larger than the other foot. If you fall into this category, fit your footwear to your larger foot.
Also, don’t go for a shoe based on the size indicated by the label, but rather, gauge how well it fits. Also, try to give allowance for your longest toe to relax well while you are standing up. In addition, pay attention to how your heels slip on and off. Perfectly fitted vegan shoes shouldn’t slip off easily while walking.
Grip - The grip is one of the most important features to consider when looking to buy shoes for hiking, running, and outdoor purposes. In fact, most workplace injuries and accidents are actually caused by slips and trips. Hence why some top brands now have in their line-up vegan slip-resistant shoes. These non-slip shoes are designed to reduce the rate of trips, slips, and falls.
The trick behind the unique construction is the tread grooves that grip easily on the ground and provide enough traction while going about your activities. Ideally, the more tread grooves on a shoe, the more slip-resistant it is, and the greater the grip and traction it will produce.
Design - Whether you’re looking to buy vegan boots or running shoes, it’s imperative you settle for footwear with classic and elegant designs. There are a lot of design-focused brands on the market offering a wide range of premium vegan shoes. It’s also now possible to get style and comfort all in a pair of shoes that are animal-friendly.
Many brands have upped their game in terms of design, style, and fashion. If you are looking for vegan running shoes, you’re likely to go for shoes designed to provide traction and balance. Whereas if you’re just looking for casual shoes to match our attire, stylish and comfortable shoes might just be your best bet. Bottom line is that your choice of design is dependent on your personal need and taste.