Looking for a new suitcase for your next trip? In this article, we will explore the world of sustainable luggage so you can fly the skies in eco-friendly style!

The Importance of Sustainable Luggage & Travel

Traveling can have a significant impact on the environment. As awareness of this issue increases, people are beginning to take small steps to reduce their carbon footprint while traveling. One simple way to start is by paying attention to your choice of suitcase!

Traditional luggage is often made from materials like (virgin) plastic, which contribute to pollution and waste. Sustainable luggage, on the other hand, is designed with the environment in mind.

These products are made from recycled or natural materials and are manufactured using low-impact processes. By choosing sustainable luggage, we can reduce our carbon footprint and support brands that prioritize sustainability.

What To Look For When Purchasing a Sustainable Suitcase:

When it comes to choosing a suitcase, the most sustainable option is the one you already own or perhaps borrowing from a friend, or finding secondhand. However, if you need to buy a new one, there are some things to consider.

• QUALITY & PRACTICALITY: Quality is our top priority as luggage goes through a lot during your travels, and you want it to last. You also want a suitcase that is easy to travel with.

• MATERIALS: Next, we look for materials made from recycled materials and try to avoid virgin plastics as much as possible. Numerous brands are adopting sustainable practices by using recycled materials in their products. Such materials include recycled plastics, fabrics made from recycled water bottles, and recycled aluminum. Using these materials not only reduces waste but also gives a second life to resources that would otherwise end up polluting our environment, particularly landfills and oceans.

• PRODUCTION: We favor brands who are transparent about where their products are being manufactured. While some of these brands may not be fully sustainable (or as ethical as we would like), we recognize their efforts to provide better options in a severely lacking industry.

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We evaluate brands using a 3-leaf rating system and only feature those we genuinely support. You can read more about our process here. This post also includes affiliate links, which help fund our work. Thank you for supporting sustainable brands - and us!

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Our Top Picks for Sustainable Luggage:

1. Paravel

Carry-On Price: $445-525

Top Sustainability Features: Vegan and Recycled Materials, Climate Neutral, Oeko-Tex Certified

Paravel is a travel brand that is deeply committed to sustainability, striving to create a positive impact on the environment while enabling adventurous spirits to explore the globe. Their carry-on, exemplifies this commitment with its thoughtfully designed features. Crafted from durable recycled polycarbonate, the exterior of the carry-on is not only robust but also lightweight, ensuring it can withstand the challenges of travel. Each zipper is made from recycled materials, reinforcing Paravel's dedication to responsible manufacturing practices. Inside, the bag's lining is fashioned from 15 upcycled plastic water bottles, effectively repurposing waste into a functional and stylish interior. In addition to its eco-friendly components, the carry-on showcases luxurious (recycled) vegan leather details that enhance its aesthetic appeal without compromising ethical values. The sturdy wrapped steel handles provide both comfort and durability, making it easy to navigate crowded airports and busy streets. Furthermore, the carry-on features an aircraft-grade recycled aluminum handle, for a sleek, modern touch.

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2. Patagonia

Carry-On Price: $359-399

Top Sustainability Features: Fair-Trade Certified Factory, Non-Toxic and Recycled Fabrics, B-Corp

This brand is perfect for avid travelers and explorers who thrive on adventure and new experiences. Their collection of wheeled duffle bags serves as the ideal companion for those on the go, combining functionality with style. Each bag is constructed from robust recycled polyester ripstop material, making them not only environmentally friendly but also highly durable and weather-resistant. This means you can confidently take them on any journey, whether it's a weekend getaway or an extended expedition. Additionally, the bags feature a durable water-repellent finish (that is PFAFS-Free), ensuring that your belongings stay dry even in unpredictable weather conditions. With a wide array of vibrant colors, there is a duffle bag to suit every individual's taste. Furthermore, as is always the case with Patagonia’s commitment to ethical production, every item in their collection is manufactured with consideration for both people and the planet, allowing you to travel with peace of mind knowing that your purchase supports sustainable practices.

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3. Anchal

Weekender Duffle Price: $140-156

Top Sustainability Features: Verified Fair-Trade, Organic Materials, Handmade Artisan Craft

We have a deep appreciation for Anchal's remarkable designs, which beautifully merge the age-old technique of kantha quilting with contemporary geometric patterns, resulting in truly unique pieces that stand out in any setting. Anchal takes great pride in its commitment to ethical practices as a member of the Fair Trade Federation, ensuring that every product is thoughtfully handcrafted by skilled artisans who are fairly compensated for their invaluable work. This dedication not only supports individual artisans but also promotes sustainable livelihoods within their communities.

Additionally, all of Anchal's products are crafted from GOTS-certified organic cotton, guaranteeing that they are both environmentally friendly and free from harmful chemicals.

Every piece from Anchal tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and a commitment to fair trade principles.

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4. Solgaard

Carry-On Price: $235-345

Top Sustainability Features: Ocean Clean-Up, Recycled Materials, B-Corp

We believe this concept is truly awesome! The Carry-On & Check-In Closet suitcases are designed with an innovative shelving system that is integrated directly into the suitcase, allowing travelers to stay wonderfully organized while on the go. This unique organizational feature sets these suitcases apart from the offerings of other brands, making packing and access to items much more efficient during your travels.

In addition to their organizational benefits, the carry-on suitcase takes a strong stance on environmental responsibility. For every purchase, the suitcase helps to remove 6 pounds of ocean-bound plastic from coastal communities, contributing to cleaner oceans and healthier ecosystems. Furthermore, the interior lining of the suitcase is crafted from Shore-Tex®, a material made entirely from 100% recycled plastic. This commitment to sustainability not only enhances the suitcase's functionality but also aligns with a growing awareness of the importance of reducing plastic waste in our environment.

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5. Lo & Sons

Weekender Price: $215

Top Sustainability Features: Eco-Friendly Materials & Packaging, Circularity

If you're in search of a travel bag that prioritizes lightweight convenience over traditional bulkiness, consider the Weekender and Duffles from Lo & Sons. These bags are specifically designed for those who want to travel with ease while maintaining style. When making your selection, it's essential to pay attention to the materials used; opt for colors crafted from either 600D Recycled Polyester or Organic Cotton. If your travels are likely to involve unpredictable weather or outdoor adventures, we recommend the 600D Recycled Polyester. This option offers significant water resistance and exceptional durability, ensuring that your belongings are well-protected in various conditions. On the other hand, if you gravitate toward a more classic and natural aesthetic, the Organic Cotton variant might be the ideal choice. It provides a softer texture and a timeless look, perfect for the eco-conscious traveler who values both style and sustainability. In 2021, Lo & Sons partnered with Looptworks to combat textile waste by creating new products from upcycled materials from their existing inventory of damaged goods.

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6. Cuyana

Weekender Price: $298-478

Top Sustainability Features: Recycled & LWG Materials, GRS-Certified

If you are looking for a sleek and fashionable travel companion, Cuyana is the one. This thoughtfully designed weekender bag boasts a spacious main zipped compartment perfect for packing clothing and larger personal items. It features one exterior pocket and two internal pockets specifically designed for shoes and smaller essentials, ensuring that all your belongings are organized and easily accessible during your travels. It also includes protective metal feet that help keep the bag clean and upright, sturdy handles for easy carrying, and adjustable crossbody straps for versatile wear. What truly sets this bag apart is its materials; it is crafted in Vietnam from recycled plastic sourced from landfills. It is also durable and machine washable, making it a practical choice for frequent travelers. The bag is a perfect example of giving landfill waste a second life while actively preventing it from re-entering the supply chain. Additionally, for those seeking a more luxurious option, this Weekender bag is available in LWG-Certified leather, which is a more sustainable option than conventional leather.

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7. Horizn Studios

Carry-On Price: $370-460

Top Sustainability Features: Vegan & Recycled Materials, Waste-Free Production, Circularity

We truly appreciate Horizn Studios for offering an impressive lifetime warranty on their products, reflecting their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

The brand is also set to introduce an innovative collection called Circle One, which is designed not only to be manufactured in Europe but also with a focus on sustainability: the products will be made for easy repair rather than replacement, promoting a more circular approach to consumer goods. In terms of their current offerings, Horizn Studios' luggage is crafted from high-quality polycarbonate hard shell, which provides durability and protection for your belongings. The interior features luxurious polyester lining that enhances the overall aesthetic and provides a soft touch. Impressively, their luggage is entirely vegan, meaning that no animal products are used in the construction. Furthermore, Horizn Studios takes great care in its manufacturing processes, achieving a production method that is 99% waste-free.

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8. Eagle Creek

Carry-On Price: $195-429

Top Sustainability Features: Recycled Materials, In-House Repair

Eagle Creek is a renowned luggage brand with a rich history spanning more than 40 years. Throughout this time, the brand has immersed itself in the travel industry, accumulating a wealth of insights, tips, and tricks that have significantly contributed to the design and functionality of their travel bags. Their commitment to understanding the needs of modern travelers has led them to develop bags that are not only practical but also versatile, catering to a wide range of travel styles and preferences. Many of their bag designs incorporate recycled materials, reflecting their commitment to reducing environmental impact. In addition to their innovative designs and a few sustainable practices, Eagle Creek boasts an impressive in-house repair center. This facility provides valuable support by helping customers repair their bags, thus extending the life of their products. This initiative not only reduces waste by keeping bags out of landfills but also fosters a sense of loyalty and trust between Eagle Creek and its customers, as they can rely on the brand for long-term maintenance of their travel gear.

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9. Roam

Carry-On Price: $495+

Top Sustainability Features: Assembled in USA, Recycled Lining

For those who are passionate about supporting domestically made products, we’ve uncovered a remarkable luggage brand that proudly assembles all of its suitcases in the heart of Georgia.

Roam not only emphasizes quality craftsmanship but also offers an exciting opportunity for customers to personalize their luggage. You can choose from a variety of colors for key components, including the suitcase shell, zipper, and wheels, allowing you to create a truly one-of-a-kind piece of travel gear that reflects your personal style. Plus, the interior of each suitcase features a luxurious fabric lining that is both antimicrobial and crafted entirely from recycled materials.

High-quality luggage and travel bags are designed to endure the rigors of travel and provide reliable service for years to come. Roam stands behind the durability of their products by offering a limited lifetime guarantee that covers non-cosmetic damage.

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10. Monos

Carry-On Price: $215-355

Top Sustainability Features: Climate Neutral, Vegan & Recycled Materials

At the core of Monos design philosophy lies the principle of “less but better,” which emphasizes the essential relationship between exceptional design and sustainability. They recognize that thoughtful design can contribute to a healthier planet, which is why they focus on creating products that not only minimize waste but also support long-term environmental stewardship. Their aim is to produce luggage that not only withstands the rigors of travel but also remains timeless in both appearance and quality, ensuring that it is a reliable companion for all your adventures throughout the years.

Monos stands firmly behind the quality and durability of their luggage. After 100 days, if for any reason you’re not completely satisfied with your choice, you can return it for a full refund—no questions asked. Should you encounter any issues with your suitcase, they offer a comprehensive guarantee to fix or replace any broken parts—no exceptions. Plus, they offer an impressive selection of over a dozen stunning colors, allowing you to find the perfect shade to match your style and preferences!

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How to Pack Sustainably

When traveling, choosing sustainable luggage is only the first step towards eco-friendliness. Adopting sustainable packing practices can maximize your efforts to reduce your carbon footprint. Here are some tips to help you pack sustainably:

1. Pack Light

   Packing light has two significant benefits: it reduces physical strain on your body and decreases the carbon emissions associated with heavier luggage. To achieve this, you should only pack essential items and consider versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched. It's essential to embrace the concept of minimalist travel by prioritizing experiences over material possessions.

2. Use Reusable Containers

   To minimize your environmental impact while traveling, it is highly recommended that you steer clear of single-use plastic containers. Instead, you should choose reusable alternatives such as silicone (we love Stasher) or stainless steel containers for your toiletries and snacks. Furthermore, you should consider carrying reusable water bottles and coffee cups (our favorite is Klean Kanteen) to reduce plastic waste. By adopting these small changes, you can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste you generate while on the go.

3. Choose Sustainable Toiletries

   Swap your regular toiletries for sustainable options. Opt for non-toxic soaps, shampoos and conditioners, minimal packaging, or solid bars to eliminate the need for plastic bottles. We suggest trying Plaine Products for your next trip. You can purchase their shampoos, conditioners and soaps in a 2.4oz travel size aluminum bottle. Need a new toiletry bag? We have you covered.

To dig even deeper on packing sustainably…

We have a post dedicated to Minimalist, Zero-Waste packing where you will learn how to pack only the essentials to enjoy your trip and lower your impact on the planet at the same time!

We also break down 10 easy ways to be a sustainable traveler so you can enjoy your vacation without having a negative impact in this post - here -

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Cover Image & Above Image: Paravel

WANT TO FIND MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.

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UGG boots have undoubtedly been a fashion staple for cold weather for many years now. First worn by Australian surfers in the 1950s, these brown fur-lined, sheepskin boots became extremely popular in the early 2000s. 

Everyone from celebrities to stay-at-home moms had a pair, and UGGs were a must-have in our closets. While they were momentarily declared “over” in 2012, they quickly made a comeback as the brand introduced new styles. In 2023, everyone was crazy about UGG’s mini, below-the-ankle platform boots and embroidered Tasman slippers - and they haven’t gone out of style for winter 2024-25!

However, while we cannot deny that UGG boots are very cozy and comfortable, they are far from being the most sustainable and ethical shoes on the market. If you still want to choose cozy comfort and trendy style this year, make sure to get one of these seven sustainable alternatives to UGGs instead. Thanks to them, you will be able to say goodbye to chilly toes while making a better choice for the planet. 

ARE UGGS SUSTAINABLE AND ETHICAL? 

UGG has taken different steps over the years to reduce its environmental footprint. For instance, it has introduced sustainable materials in its collections such as upcycled wool, Tencel lyocell, or recycled polyester. 

However, there is a lot of room for improvement. Its shoes are still made with sheepskin and leather, which are some of the most unsustainable materials. The leather is artificially dyed and treated, so it may contain many harmful chemicals we should not be in contact with. 

Most UGG boots are also made in Asia, primarily in China and Vietnam, where there is little to no environmental regulation. 

Moreover, the company’s supply chain is not certified by any labor standards. So there is no evidence that workers are paid a fair living wage and that they are treated well and working in safe, healthy conditions. 

While UGG may not be the least eco-friendly and ethical footwear brand, it still has a long way to go to be considered sustainable. 

Thankfully, there are different brands we can shop from that are doing a lot better in terms of ethics and sustainability! 

WHAT MAKES A PAIR OF SHOES SUSTAINABLE AND ETHICAL?

A sustainable pair of shoes is made with eco-friendly materials and built to last for many years. It should be designed to withstand constant wear without wearing out in a few seasons. If possible, try to buy shoes that can be resoled and repaired, though these can be tricky to find. 

The brand producing them should also utilize sustainable manufacturing practices and implement different zero-waste initiatives such as energy- or water-saving techniques. It should also minimize its use of toxic chemicals and material waste. 

A sustainable footwear brand also makes its shoes with its workers’ well-being in mind. All the workers in the supply chain should be paid fair wages allowing them to live decently, and work in safe, humane conditions. 

The company should also be transparent about how its products are made and where. Ideally, it has received different third-party certifications such as B Corporation or OEKO-TEX Standard 100. 

Finally, make sure to stay away from fast fashion brands and cheap styles you can find on websites like Amazon. These brands provide very little information about how their products are produced, and their shoes are usually poorly made and not built to last. 

WHAT MATERIALS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

Most sustainable alternatives to UGGs are made with high-quality synthetic materials or sustainably sourced sheepskin. While these materials are not ideal in terms of sustainability, they are usually long-lasting, meaning that you will be able to wear the shoes for many years. 

However, different brands also make their boots with more eco-friendly materials such as corn “leather”, or recycled materials such as recycled PU, recycled wool, or recycled polyester. One company even crafts them using recycled mattresses! Finally, many of them also make their soles from natural rubber. 

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We evaluate brands using a 3-leaf rating system & only feature those we genuinely support. You can read more about our process here. This post also includes affiliate links, which help fund our work. Thank you for supporting sustainable brands - and us!

= Exceptional
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OUR TOP PICKS FOR COMFY, SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES TO UGGS:

1. EMU Australia 

Materials: Sheepskin, Merino Wool, Rubber, EVA

Price range: $88-200

EMU Australia creates quality UGG-like boots for each member of the family, including children and babies. It focuses on sustainable production using natural materials. It sells different styles of boots, from ankle boots to tall models, which are all either water-resistant or fully waterproof. You will be able to choose from different colors such as brown, black, gray, and even glossy gold. If you have children, they will love all the fun styles, patterns, and colors available. Our favorites are in the Little Creatures collection, which features incredibly cute animal-inspired UGG-style boots lined with Australian merino wool! 

EMU Australia makes all its boots with double-face sheepskin to keep your feet warm and snug. We particularly recommend those from the Platinum Collection, since they are all handcrafted locally in Australia. The Platinum boots are made from Woolmark-accredited, Australian sheepskin and feature a removable sheepskin-lined insole, a dual-layered EVA midsole, a flexible outsole, and a reinforced heel cup.  And if you are looking for a comfy, yet more feminine model, you should check out the Platinum Hi Lace boots. They are classic UGG-like tall boots with a cool side lace detail, allowing for a flexible fit and adding a fashionable touch. 

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2. Zette Shoes 

Materials: Microfiber PU, Corn Leather, Faux Shearling, EVA 

Price range: $122

Zette Shoes is the in-house brand of the Australian vegan footwear boutique Vegan Style. This ethical, cruelty-free shoe line is consciously crafted in limited quantities with sustainable materials and combines timeless elegance with playful styles. With its Willow collection, it offers vegan UGG-style slipper boots that will keep your feet comfortable, warm, and cozy. Three of them, sold in the colors black, beige, and silver, are handmade from suede-like microfiber PU produced in a CO2-free manufacturing environment. The microfiber PU is water-resistant, durable, and breathable, and molds to the shape of your feet over time. It is also Ecolabel and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, meaning that harmful chemicals are not released into the environment during the production process and that the boots are 100% non-toxic and healthy to wear. 

The company also has a fourth model whose upper is made from corn leather. This supple yet sturdy material is made in part from corn husks and vegetable oils. How cool?! Zette Shoes’ UGG-style boots also feature a faux shearling lining and a lightweight EVA outsole, and they are produced ethically in Brazil. To top it all off, the brand ships everything using recycled packaging and its team has fostered and helped rehome 100+ rescue cats!  

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3. Bearpaw

Materials: Rubber, Faux Suede, Faux Fur

Price range: $60-85

Bearpaw is a brand renowned for offering a wide array of footwear options that prioritize both comfort and style. Their collection includes UGG-style boots, clogs, and slippers, catering to women, men, kids, and toddlers alike. For those who adhere to a vegan lifestyle, Bearpaw proudly presents a diverse range of vegan boots. These boots are crafted with high-quality faux suede uppers and feature a plush faux fur lining along with footbeds that provide exceptional comfort.

In addition to their vegan options, Bearpaw’s traditional offerings include boots, clogs, and slippers that are made from premium soft suede. Many of these styles are lined with a luxurious wool blend, ensuring warmth and comfort even in colder weather. A notable feature of their footwear is the sheepskin footbed, which not only adds to the plush feel but also helps to regulate temperature, keeping your feet comfortable all day long.

To further enhance the durability and functionality of their products, Bearpaw applies a non-toxic, PFOA-free rain and stain repellent to their footwear.

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4. Be Lenka 

Materials: Leather, Sheepskin, Wool, Recycled PU, Rubber

Price range: $129

Be Lenka is a sustainable Slovak brand that produces minimalist barefoot shoes and ergonomic baby carriers. Its Polaris collection for women consists of beautiful pairs of boots that are quite similar to UGGs. They are sold in the colors gray, and black, and they feature a timeless, classy design. Very versatile, you can wear them with practically anything, from a pair of jeans to athleisure wear! These boots are made from nubuck leather with sheepskin lining that has fantastic warmth-retaining and moisture-wicking properties. The insoles are produced from wool & recycled PU, & the boots have anti-slip, abrasion-resistant rubber soles designed to provide excellent grip.

Just like other barefoot shoes, they respect the natural anatomy of the foot and perfectly mimic walking barefoot. They feature a wide foot-shaped toe box and ultra-flexible, lightweight soles allowing the feet and nerve endings to be stimulated by the surface they walk on. They are also flat from heel to toe, which helps improve body posture and weight distribution. Be Lenka handcrafts its Polaris boots in Portugal using locally sourced materials and focuses on sustainable, high-quality craftsmanship. The brand also regularly supports different charities through the Be Lenka Foundation.

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5. Celtic & Co

Materials: Sheepskin, Rubber

Price range: $129-435

Celtic & Co. is a British family-owned clothing and footwear brand committed to slow fashion. It creates contemporary pieces using sustainable, natural materials and has been making quality sheepskin slippers and boots in Cornwall for over 30 years. It has a huge selection of UGG-style shoes for women, men, kids, and even babies! From classic shearling boots to water-resistant or knee-high models, they are available in many styles and colors. 

The boots are made to stand the test of time and crafted by hand using British shearling. The shearling is sourced as a by-product of the food industry, meaning that it is a waste product that would have otherwise been incinerated. 

Celtic & Co’s boots are finished with an Italian rubber sole, and they feature double-stitched seams for extra resilience and a reinforced heel back to help preserve the shape of the shoe. Not to mention that almost all of them are machine washable! 

The brand works with suppliers that are members of the Leather Working Group or Sedex, and it makes sure to avoid overproduction. It even offers a resole and repair service and regularly makes donations to nonprofits. 

Plus, it received many awards, including the King’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category in 2023, which is the highest official award for British businesses! 

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6. PAWJ California

Materials: High-quality Synthetic Suede, Faux Fur, EVA

Price range: $130-170

PAWJ California is a family-run footwear brand based in California selling 100% vegan, cruelty-free boots, shoes, and slippers. 

It offers a wide range of UGG-style boots for women, from mini ankle boots to classic ones to tall models. Men can choose between a black pair of short boots and brown mini boots.

If you like platform shoes, you will be happy to learn that the brand has a few models in that style. PAWJ California also has a pair of clogs that are incredibly similar to UGG’s Tasman slippers!   

The boots are very soft and available in several neutral colors such as black, gray, and different shades of brown and beige. 

PAWJ California produces all its boots using high-quality synthetic suede and faux fur, making them entirely vegan and free of animal-based materials. Not to mention it is a PETA-approved brand.   

The boots feature an EVA sole and are designed with exceptional craftsmanship, comfort, and style in mind. With their reinforced heels and double nylon stitched seams, they are truly made to be long-lasting. 

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7. Call It Spring  

Materials: Recycled Mattresses, PVC-Free Materials, Faux Fur

Price range: $110

Call It Spring is a Canadian brand selling all kinds of shoes and bags for women and men. It offers a cute pair of chunky Jamielee booties that look like UGG boots.It is available in brown, black, and black covered with glittering sequins if you are looking for a more unique, fun look.

These stylish boots are incredibly cozy and feature a round toe box, lug soles, and faux fur lining. They are also waterproof thanks to their sealed seams that help prevent your feet from getting wet. 

As a PETA-approved brand, Call It Spring makes sure this style is 100% vegan and cruelty-free. It is made from PVC-free materials and has an insole produced from 30% post-consumer waste using recycled mattresses and cushions. The insole is designed to be comfortable, breathable, and durable, and does not compress over time.

The brand also ships its products using FSC-certified packaging printed with vegetable-based inks. Plus, it has partnered with the Give Back Box to provide you with a free shipping label so you can easily send your unwanted clothes and shoes to different charities.

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About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.

RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:

Image: Nisolo

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a better fashion industry. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us!

THE BEST Eco-Friendly & SUSTAINABLE SANDALS

Sandals are go-to wardrobe staples in most closets during the warmer months. They are the ideal shoes to wear when it is hot outside or when we go to the beach! 

But as we wear them all the time in the summer, they can quickly wear out and break, especially if we do not initially invest in quality. Worn-out sandals, which are by the way often made with unsustainable materials, then end up in landfill where they will not biodegrade for at least several centuries. 

As a conscious consumer, you might want to reduce the environmental impact of your shoe collection and be on the lookout for durable and sustainably made sandals. Thankfully, thanks to many ethical brands, we can now purchase models that are not only comfortable and made to last but also crafted with the planet in mind. 

In this article, we have rounded up 12 sustainable brands selling beautiful sandals that you will be able to wear for all your summer outings! 

WHAT MAKES SANDALS SUSTAINABLE?

Sustainable sandals are shoes that are built to last and that you can wear for multiple seasons. They are made with eco-friendly materials with longevity and quality in mind. 

They are also crafted ethically by workers who are paid fair, living wages and offered employee benefits, and who work under safe, healthy, and dignified conditions. 

Sustainable sandal brands should also be transparent about their manufacturing processes, produce their shoes in an eco-friendly way, and make them in smaller batches to avoid waste and overproduction. 

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

Sustainable brands use a variety of eco-friendly materials to produce their sandals. You can find models made from recycled plastic, organic cotton, cork, jute, or even deadstock and upcycled materials. 

Some companies also use more innovative materials made from the byproducts of the food industry, like piñatex, apple leather, and VEGEA. 

The outsoles are often made with natural rubber, and heeled pairs can feature a heel produced from sustainably-harvested wood. 

Some sustainable brands choose to make their sandals from leather, which is generally not an eco-friendly material. However, if it is vegetable-tanned and sourced responsibly and from Leather Working Group certified tanneries, leather can be a great material for crafting very durable sandals that can last for years. 

Brand Rating Guide:

❤︎ = we like ❤︎❤︎ = we really like ❤︎❤︎❤︎ = we LOVE

Click here to learn how we rate brands on Sustainably Chic

OUR TOP PICKS FOR COMFY, SUSTAINABLE SANDALS

1. Nisolo

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Women & Men

Materials: Leather, Wood, Rubber

Price: $55 - 138

Nisolo offers a wide variety of women’s sandals, from heeled sandals and flip-flops to slip-on models and closed-toe sandals. The company has a style for every occasion!

Men can also choose between different models, including slip-ons and huarache sandals that are perfect for dressing up or down.

The brand makes its sandals using water-resistant leather, meaning you can even wear them at the beach!

The leather is sourced as a byproduct of the meat industry, and it comes from Mexican or American tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group. Nisolo also partners with tanneries using vegetable tanning, which is a lot more sustainable.

The company is B Corp and Climate-Neutral certified, and it was ranked as the best-performing brand in terms of transparency in Remake’s 2021 Accountability Report. It even has a shoe reclamation program!

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*vegan

2. Biankina

❤︎❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Recycled Microfiber, Natural Rubber, Cork, Jute

Price: $60

Biankina is an eco-conscious footwear brand that operates out of the city of Barcelona. Specializing in vegan shoes, they offer a diverse range of sandals tailored to women.

Each sandal from Biankina boasts a timeless, contemporary, and sophisticated design, ideal for both formal and casual occasions. Available in an array of colors, including metallic hues, these sandals are lightweight and offer exceptional comfort and support for all-day wear.

The uppers in the sandals are crafted from Global Recycled Standard-certified recycled microfiber, while the soles are made from 100% natural rubber and feature memory foam insoles for added comfort. Furthermore, the cork midsoles naturally absorb shock as you walk, and the incorporation of jute fiber reduces heat conductivity, making these sandals ideal for the summer months.

Every pair of Biankina's slides is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans in an ethical workshop in Spain, ensuring that each shoe is made with expertise and care. Additionally, all of the brand's products are vegan, and the production process is free from harmful chemicals and glues. As a bonus, when you purchase the one-strap style from Biankina, the brand pledges to plant two trees on your behalf!

code: SUSTAINABLYCHIC for 10% off

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3. Sézane

❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Leather, Rubber

Price: $205 - 245

Sézane is a French luxury fashion brand committed to sustainability and ethical production. It crafts beautiful leather sandals for women, all of which will complement your summer outfits.

You will particularly love its braided leather sandals: they are handwoven in the brand’s Portuguese atelier and are incredibly easy to dress up and down!

You can even pick one of its metallic leather styles if you want more unique pieces.

Some of Sézane’s leather sandals are made using vegetable tanning, and everything is shipped in recycled or FSC-certified cardboard boxes.

The brand is a certified B Corporation, and it has recycled over 13,000 pieces since the launch of its recycling program. It has also raised over four million euros for its philanthropic program supporting education and equal opportunities for children all over the world.

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4. Able

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Leather

Price: $61

Able is one of our favorite sustainable clothing brands here at Sustainably Chic! It sells different pairs of sandals, all of which are very stylish and will make your feet look amazing.

Along with its beautiful heeled models, the brand has several flat sandals that are good wardrobe staples to wear all summer long. It even has a white Birkenstock-style pair of sandals for those of us who prefer this look!

Most shoes feature a versatile design, making it easy for you to style them with any outfit! They are all made from high-quality leather upcycled from discarded cowhides.

Able prioritizes durability and longevity when it produces its pieces, and it aims to empower both the women who make them and those who wear them. It also works with leather partners who use a recycled closed-loop water system and utilize deadstock and scrap materials to minimize waste.

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5. Adelante Shoe Co.

❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Leather

Price: $172 - 180

Adelante Shoe Co handcrafts gorgeous leather shoes in its small workshop in Guatemala. It has three styles of women’s sandals, all of which are made to order.

This means that they are produced when you order them, so there is no overproduction or unsold inventory.

The heeled and flat sandals are all available in many colors, including red, blue, and caramel. They are made from full-grain leather that comes from less-processed hides and is incredibly durable. They are also fully resoleable, so you will be able to wear them forever with proper care.

Adelante Shoe Co works with a tannery using non-toxic, vegetable-tanning methods. The tannery also uses solar panels and water-saving processes, and it repurposes its waste and byproducts.

The company offsets its carbon footprint, and it pays its artisans more than twice the local wage!

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*vegan

6. Will's Vegan Store

❤︎❤︎

For: Women & Men

Materials: Bio-Based Vegan Leather, Polyurethane, Recycled Plastic, Jute, Cork, Rubber

Price: $59 - 104

Will’s Vegan Store is an ethical vegan shoe company selling different styles of sandals for both men and women. 

Men can choose between slip-on models designed with shock-absorbing cork footbeds and arch support, and a comfortable sports pair featuring a lightweight Vibram outsole. 

The brand has even more options for women, including elegant heeled sandals and stylish slides that can be worn both at the beach and while walking in the city. 

Will’s Vegan Store makes its sandals in Italy or Portugal using only vegan materials, from the uppers down to the glue used in its shoes. 

Most of its sandals are made from Italian bio-based vegan leather produced from cereal crops, and the outsoles and insoles contain recycled materials.  

The company also ships its shoes in a carbon-neutral supply chain using plastic-free packaging. 

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7. Poppy Barley

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Leather

Price: $174 - 217

Poppy Barley is a Canadian-certified B Corporation producing eco-friendly shoes and accessories. It has two models of women’s sandals, both of which are made ethically in a women-owned factory in Mexico. Designed with all-day comfort in mind, both sandals feature flexible soles, cushioned footbeds with arch support, square toes, and adjustable ankle straps. The Fisherman sandals, which are available in four colors, are even sold in bright purple!

Poppy Barley makes its sandals using leather that comes from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group, and that is a byproduct of food production. The leather lining is also vegetable-tanned and chemical-free and is produced using less water.

The brand even started a scholarship program to help the children of the artisans Poppy Barley works with gain access to post-secondary education! It also partners with Soles4Souls to give pre-loved shoes a new life.

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*vegan

8. Okabashi

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Women & Men

Materials: Soy-Based Material, Recycled Materials

Price: $25

If you are on a budget and trying to live more sustainably without breaking the bank, this brand is for you! Okabashi has some of the most affordable, sustainable sandals you can find on the market. The company crafts several pairs of slip-on sandals and flip-flops for men and women, all of which are waterproof & machine washable.

Each pair features slip-resistant soles, supportive heel cups, superior arch support, and a comfortable toe rest. Designed with foot therapy in mind, Okabashi’s shoes even have massaging beads placed on the footbeds to promote better circulation! 

The brand makes its sandals in Georgia (USA) using a combination of soy-based and recycled materials. It also operates in a closed-loop manufacturing system and reuses its scrap materials. 

You can even send back your worn-out Okabashi sandals, and the company will turn them into new products.

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*vegan

9. Vivaia

❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Recycled Plastic, Rubber

Price: $69 - 119

Vivaia is a sustainable brand creating women’s shoes out of recycled plastic bottles saved from the ocean.

So far, it has turned almost 3.5 million bottles into new footwear!

It sells stylish yet comfortable sandals that are all very breathable.

They feature durable rubber outsoles and supportive insoles designed to prevent foot odors. With their square-toe design and small heels, the Jade sandals are the ideal summer shoes for looking put together without sacrificing comfort! 

Combining sustainable practices with modern technology, Vivaia produces its shoes using an eco-friendly process that helps reduce production waste by over 30%.

The company ships its shoes in recycled cardboard boxes. It also regularly donates money and shoes to charities like Dress For Success and SOS Children’s Village.

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10. Deux Mains

❤︎❤︎

For: Women & Men

Materials: Upcycled Tires, Leather

Price: $60 - 100

Founded after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, Deux Mains is on a mission to honor the country’s ancestral wisdom by crafting beautiful shoes and accessories all while creating empowering jobs for the locals. The brand offers comfortable slip-on sandals for both men and women.

There is also a pair of flip-flops for men as well as simple ankle strap sandals for women. 

If you want to add color to your shoe collection, take a look at Deux Mains’ gorgeous hand-painted slide. Its design is inspired by the atmosphere of a busy Haitian marketplace! 

The company’s sandals are all handcrafted in small batches using responsibly-sourced leather and upcycled tires found on the island. 

Deux Mains also produces everything in its solar-powered, women-owned factory, and it makes sure all its pieces are made to last so that you can wear them for years. 

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*vegan

11. Nae

❤︎❤︎

For: Women, Men, Unisex

Materials: Piñatex, Cork, Apple Leather, Organic Cotton, Vegan Leather, Recycled PET

Price: $39 - 98

Nae, which stands for No Animal Exploitation, is a vegan footwear brand making cruelty-free shoes in its certified, ethical factories in Portugal. 

It has a huge selection of sandals for both women and men, and it sells some unisex models as well.

You get to choose between many heeled sandals, slip-on models, Birkenstock-style shoes, and some more elegant pairs that you can easily wear at weddings or other special events.

Nae makes its sandals using sustainable materials such as cork, organic cotton, and recycled plastic. It even has some cool pairs made with piñatex (produced from pineapple leaf fibers) and apple leather (obtained from the waste of the apple juice industry)! 

Plus, the brand also sends its products in recycled and recyclable packaging. 

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*vegan

12. 1People

❤︎❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Recycled Plastic, VEGEA, Rubber, Cork, Jute, Piñatex, Wood, Recycled Brass

Price: $60

1People is a Danish fashion brand designing timeless pieces using innovative, sustainable materials. 

It creates several models of sandals for women, including a lovely heeled pair that is perfect for wearing at work or during an outdoor brunch. The sandals are all versatile and provide a simple, yet stylish look! 

1People makes its sandals using eco-friendly materials such as GOTS-certified piñatex, recycled plastic, and VEGEA (produced from grape marc from wine-making waste). 

Its heels are crafted from ethically harvested teak wood, and some of its insoles contain rubber, cork, and jute collected from post-industrial waste. Each sandal also features the brand’s signature logo made of recycled brass. 

What’s more, 1People offers carbon-neutral shipping and collects its material waste to produce new yarn and fabric. It even invests part of its profits in projects promoting education and helping eradicate hunger around the world. 

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About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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image: Oka-B

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THE BEST Eco-Friendly & SUSTAINABLE FLIP-FLOPS

Whether you only wear them at the beach or they are your favorite everyday shoes in the summer, you probably have at least one pair of flip-flops in your shoe collection. 

Flip-flops are so practical and easy to wear that humans have worn them for thousands of years. Murals dating back to 4,000 BC show people wearing them as their primary type of shoes!

Nowadays, they are still extremely popular all around the world! This is particularly true in developing countries, where a large percentage of people can only afford to buy flip-flops as opposed to other forms of footwear. 

Unfortunately, almost all the flip-flops we buy are made of synthetic rubber, or in other words, non-biodegradable plastic. They also break very easily because of their low quality, and they eventually end up in landfills or oceans where they will take hundreds of years to decompose. 

If you too are tired of having plastic flip-flops that only last a season or two, consider investing in high-quality, sustainable flip-flops. 

In this article, we are writing about 10 eco-friendly brands selling comfy flip-flops that are both durable and sustainable! 

WHAT MAKES FLIP-FLOPS SUSTAINABLE?

Sustainable flip-flops are made with eco-friendly materials and are built to last. You should be able to wear them for many years before seeing any visible signs of damage. 

They are also produced in an ethical environment by brands that pay their workers a fair living wage. People working in the supply chain should be treated humanely and work under safe, healthy conditions. 

Look for third-party certifications whenever you want to buy a pair of flip-flops. Brands that are B Corporation or Fairtrade certified are great brands to support!  

Some companies even offer to recycle your flip-flops at the end of their lives, so consider giving them a chance! 

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR? 

When looking for new flip-flops, try to avoid petroleum-based materials and remember that investing in quality is worth it. 

Sustainable brands make theirs using natural, recycled, or renewable materials. For instance, you can buy flip-flops made from cork (or recycled cork), FSC-certified natural rubber (or recycled rubber), hemp, algae, or bio-based materials. 

You can also choose ones made with all kinds of recycled materials, like recycled plastic, recycled car tires, used shoes, or scrap materials. 

Leather is not always sustainable, but it is an incredibly durable material. So if you choose a pair of leather flip-flops, make sure to choose one made of vegetable-tanned leather. 

Brand Rating Guide:

❤︎ = we like ❤︎❤︎ = we really like ❤︎❤︎❤︎ = we LOVE

Click here to learn how we rate brands on Sustainably Chic

OUR TOP PICKS FOR DURABLE, SUSTAINABLE FLIP-FLOPS

1. Oka-B

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Bio-Based Soy Material

Price Range: $38 - 52

Oka-B is a woman-led, family-owned shoe brand selling sustainable ballet flats, sandals and flip-flops. The shoes are slip-resistant and completely waterproof, which means they are super easy to clean. The brand’s flip-flops are designed in many styles and flashy colors, so they will make you stand out from the crowd!

They also come with cool shoe attachments you can add to make them even more unique. For instance, you can decorate them with little bows, butterflies, flowers, cute turtles, or starfishes. 

Made to stimulate foot health, Oka-B’s flip-flops have a comfortable footbed with built-in heel cups, soothing massage beads, toe rests, and premium arch support. 

They are also handmade in Georgia using a bio-based soy material, and at the end of their lives, you can send them back and Oka-B will recycle them for you. 

Through its partnership with Soles4Souls, the company has been regularly donating shoes to survivors of natural disasters and micro-entrepreneurs based in developing countries. So far, it has gifted over 8,000 pairs of shoes to communities in need!

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2. Third Oak

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Recycled & Bio-Based Soy Materials

Price: $30

Third Oak is a Georgia-based brand crafting comfortable, sustainable sandals and flip-flops for women. It offers eight different colors of flip-flops, featuring classic styles with a soft, neutral palette so that you can wear them with any outfit. 

These minimalist-looking flip-flops are lightweight and designed to be water- and slip-resistant.

They have light arch support and a heel cup for increased stability and extra support. 

Third Oak manufactures them in a closed-loop process combining recycled plastics with its proprietary bio-based soy material. This material blend is created to be the perfect balance of durability and flexibility, so you can wear them all day long and they last for years. 

The brand produces its Scout flip-flops in the United States, and they are 100% recyclable. It means that Third Oak’s factory can reuse scraps of material during the manufacturing process, and when they get worn out, you can send them back and the company will turn them into new sandals!

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3. Teva

❤︎

For: Women & Men

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Recycled EVA

Price: $34 - 65

Founded in 1984, Teva has been making sports sandals and boots for those who love exploring the great outdoors. The brand has a very comfortable model of flip-flops, the ReFlip, which is made with upcycled post-industrial waste. 

Teva’s flip-flops are the ideal pair of summer shoes you can wear all day long while wandering in nature or traveling.

They dry very quickly and are designed to prevent foot odors. The women’s model is sold in black only, but men will be able to choose between black, blue and a lovely brownish color. 

Teva makes its straps with recycled plastic, using traceable recycled polyester yarn. The webbing is built to last, so you do not have to worry about them ripping on your next hike. The flip-flops also feature supportive, cushioned midsoles and outsoles crafted from a mixture of recycled EVA and new materials.

Since Teva transitioned to 100% recycled polyester straps in 2020, it has diverted over 24 million plastic bottles from landfills!

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4. Biankina

❤︎❤︎

For: Women

Materials: GRS Certified Recycled Synthetic Fibers, Natural Cork Sole

Price: $70

Biankina is an eco-conscious footwear brand headquartered in the city of Barcelona, Spain.

The company specializes in offering a stunning collection of vegan footwear, with a particular focus on an exquisite range of sandals tailored for women.

Among their offerings is the stylish Malaga, a versatile flip-flop-style sandal available in sleek Black, earthy Brown, and eye-catching Metallic Copper.

To prioritize sustainability, Biankina employs Global Recycled Standard-certified recycled microfiber in crafting the uppers of their footwear.

Handcrafted with precision and care, Biankina's slides are brought to life by skilled artisans in an ethical workshop located in Spain. With a commitment to ethical production practices, Biankina prides itself on creating footwear that is not only vegan but also free from harmful chemicals and glues, minimizing the environmental impact of the production process.

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5. Okabashi

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Women & Men

Materials: Bio-Based Soy Materials, Used Shoes, Scrap Materials

Price: $25

Okabashi has been producing high-quality shoes since 1984. This family-owned shoe company has different kinds of flip-flops for both men and women, and they are all made in the United States. Okabashi’s flip-flops are made with its innovative bio-based soy material as well as recycled materials from the brand’s closed-loop manufacturing process.

The final material is 100% recyclable, so you can send your shoes back at the end of their lives and Okabashi will recycle them into new shoes. 

The company designs its footwear with foot therapy and reflexology in mind. Its flip-flops have heel cups to improve stability and arch support so that your feet and spine are properly aligned when walking. They also feature massage beads on the footbeds for better circulation, and toe rests to let your toes relax. 

Okabashi’s shoes come with a two-year warranty, and cleaning them is very easy as they are machine washable.

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6. Indosole

❤︎

For: Women, Men, Kids

Materials: Recycled Tires, Natural Rubber, Nylon

Price Range: $38 - 53

Indosole is a sustainable footwear brand selling flip-flops for each member of the family. It offers timeless, discreet looks that are all waterproof and very comfortable. 

The company makes the shoes’ soles out of recycled car tires. So they are incredibly durable and provide maximum grip, preventing you from slipping even on slick and muddy surfaces. 

These all-terrain flip-flops also feature footbeds made of responsibly-sourced natural rubber, which is dyed with natural dyes and no chemicals. They also provide arch support for ultimate comfort when walking. 

Indosole uses a custom-made fiber for the uppers: they are designed not to rub against the skin and to withstand all conditions. This fiber is colored with all-natural dyes and little water is needed to produce it. 

The brand is a certified B Corp, and it sources its materials locally. Not to mention it has saved over 80,000 tires from the landfill!

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7. Feelgoodz

❤︎

For: Women & Men

Materials: Natural Rubber, Recycled Rice Husks, Vegan Leather

Price Range: $25 - 60

Feelgoodz partners with different artisan groups around the world to make eco-friendly slippers, slides and flip-flops for both men and women. 

The brand offers several models of flip-flops crafted with natural rubber by artisan farmers in Thailand.

They have a very simple design and are available in different colors. Designed for all-day comfort, they should become your go-to summer staple!  

Feelgoodz also sells vegan leather flip-flops that feel like you are walking on a yoga mat. These Zensole sandals feature a sculpted footbed with arch support and a heel cup. The outsoles are made of a combination of natural rubber and recycled rice husks for added traction and wear resistance. Some Zensole flip-flops are even handwoven and sold in different colorful designs. 

By crafting these flip-flops, the company directly supports rice-farming communities in Vietnam, traditional weavers in India, and rubber-farm co-ops and artisans in Thailand.

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8. Laidback London

❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Leather, EVA, Beads

Price Range: $64 - 105

Laidback London creates unique boots, sandals and accessories, all of which are handmade by local communities in Kenya using traditional craftsmanship. Buying them helps provide income for the locals all while preserving their skills and artistry. 

The brand has a very large selection of flip-flops for women.

Produced the old-fashioned way, these beautiful shoes feature a hand-embellished leather upper and leather lining, which makes them very durable. 

The leather upper is adorned with striking Maasai beaded detailing, and you have many styles to choose from. Most of them are very colorful, and they will make you stand out for sure! 

Since the flip-flops are handcrafted and made of leather, each pair is a little different, adding to their authentic character and charm. 

Laidback London makes sure to source its materials locally whenever possible, and it sends its products in recycled paper packaging. 

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9. SOLE

❤︎

For: Women & Men

Materials: Recycled Cork, Leather, Bloom Algae Foam, EVA, Nylon, PU

Price Range: $65-99

Founded in 2001 in Canada, SOLE creates eco-friendly footwear designed to reduce and prevent foot issues, including plantar fasciitis, overpronation, and knee, back, or hip pain. 

The brand has a great selection of flip-flops for men and women, many of which are made of recycled cork. SOLE has collected over 128 million wine corks over the years and has used them to replace fossil-fuel foams in its footwear. 

Cork is an excellent material for shoes because it provides great shock absorption and long-lasting support. It also has moisture-wicking and odor-reducing properties, and it naturally molds to your feet within days of wear. 

SOLE also makes its footbeds with Bloom algae foam, which has a 40% smaller environmental impact than regular petroleum-based alternatives. Its production helps clear harmful algae from natural ecosystems and filter water. 

The company is a member of 1% For The Planet, and it plants cork oak trees to offset its carbon footprint.

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10. Jivanas

❤︎

For: Women & Men

Materials: Vegetable-Tanned Leather, Hemp

Price Range: $120-165

Jivanas works with artisans based in Nepal to create handmade sandals for men and women, using 100% natural and biodegradable materials. The brand has various pairs of flip-flops, available in different styles and colors. Crafted using remarkable workmanship, each pair is made of Italian vegetable-tanned leather, produced with tree bark, leaves and fruits. 

The leather is extremely durable, so Jivanas’ shoes last for many years and become even more beautiful and unique as they age. They feature built-in arch support and an insole that molds to your footprint. 

Some of the flip-flops have a Himalayan hemp upper, which adds to their authenticity. The brand also uses sustainable adhesives, dyes and conditioners, all made from organic, plant-based materials. 

Everything Jivanas creates is handmade in its ethical workshop by skilled artisans who are provided fair wages, safe working conditions and healthcare. The brand helps them break the cycle of poverty, and it prevents unemployment and exploitation that are oh-so widespread in Nepal.

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About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!

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WANT TO FIND MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.

---

RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:

Image: Svala

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a better fashion industry. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us!

The Best Vegan Leather Handbags (that are also sustainable)

As we become more mindful of the impact our choices have on our planet and its inhabitants, our fashion priorities are evolving. Gone are the days when we simply chased the trendiest accessories without considering their origins. Today, we're all about making informed decisions that harmonize with our values.

In this blog post, we're diving deep into the world of vegan leather handbags – a chic and compassionate choice that lets us strut our stuff with a clear conscience. If you have ever wondered about the different materials used in crafting vegan handbags, this post will help to break it down for you and will serve as a helpful guide when you come to choosing your next handbag. 

Join us as we explore the spectrum of vegan leather alternatives, dissecting which ones align best with sustainability goals. Durability is often a concern on many people's minds when choosing their next handbag, so we'll be taking a look at how you can tell if a bag will stand the test of time. 

Why should you shop vegan handbags?

There are a number of reasons why more people are choosing a vegan alternative when shopping for handbags now. The main reason is usually surrounding ethics and how people feel about using animals for fashion. More people are becoming aware of the realities of animal agriculture, and the fact that those same animals are suffering for fashion too. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian or simply an animal lover, you may feel that using an animal's skin, wool or fur doesn't align with your ethics and so you'll be opting for animal-free materials when you shop. There is also an ethical factor in regards to the humans who have to work with animal leather. The chemicals used in tanning animal leather are extremely toxic and tannery workers suffer cancer at high rates due to exposure to tanning chemicals, which are known carcinogens.

Another big reason people are increasingly switching to vegan leather handbags is for environmental reasons. While not all vegan leather alternatives are 100% sustainable themselves, we do know more about the true impact of using animal leather and how they compare against synthetic alternatives. A recent study by Collective Fashion Justice found that making cow skin leather is nearly seven times more climate impactful than synthetic leather by the square meter. The damage caused by animal leather on the environment includes toxic chemicals used for the tanning process, polluting waterways with factory wastewater, carbon emissions, plus excessive land and water use. We must factor in all the environmental impact of animal agriculture before the material is even produced, as this cannot be ignored from the process. 

By choosing vegan handbags, we can actively reduce our environmental impact and reduce the number of animals killed for fashion. 

What types of materials are used for vegan handbags?

There are more sustainable vegan alternatives to leather than ever before. Some are still in development and not widely available, but here are some that you can find on the market today:

• Mirum - made of a blend of FSC certified natural rubber, natural colorants like charcoal, natural fillers like clays, plant-based oils and waxes. 

• Cork - made from the bark of cork trees (without the trees being cut down) and is completely biodegradable. 

• Mycelium - bio-based and produced from mycelium - the branching, root-like vegetation part of fungi.

• Fruit leather (including orange, mango, pineapple, apple and grape) - 45% of all fruits and vegetables grown globally are discarded between the field and the plate. Fruit leather makes use of the waste of these different fruits and creates partly bio-based materials. 

• Cactus leather - made up of dried cactus powder backed on woven material.

• Treekind - made from sustainably sourced wood, Treekind is completely free from plastic and recyclable, and estimated to use less than 1% of the water cow skin leather production does.

• Washable paper - FSC trees can be used to create washable paper, a recyclable and biodegradable alternative to leather. 

The most commonly used (and less sustainable) alternatives to leather include PVC and PU. These are not ideal as, although they still have a far reduced impact compared to animal-derived materials, they require fossil fuel extraction and do not biodegrade. However, you can get recycled PU leather which doesn't require extracting new fossil fuels, hugely reducing its environmental impact. 

Brand Rating Guide:

❤︎ = we like ❤︎❤︎ = we really like ❤︎❤︎❤︎ = we LOVE

Click here to learn how we rate brands on Sustainably Chic

Are vegan leather handbags durable?

Durability is the main issue people seem to have with vegan leather goods, they often worry they won't last as long or will 'peel' as it's believed that vegan leather is often thinner than animal leather. However, if you've ever been into a vintage shop or thrift store and found an animal leather jacket or bag, you'll usually see it has peeled or cracked. This is because animal leather requires a high level of maintenance to keep it supple, and not many people will commit to this. 

So a lot of the time durability comes down to how well you can look after a product, and when it comes to handbags we can often control the wear and tear of it by making sure it's stored properly and not exposed to too much damage. Not all materials are created equally, so it really depends on the vegan alternative used to make the bag, but you can find care instructions with handbags to help you preserve and protect your vegan handbag so it can last for many years. 

our top picks for vegan leather handbag brands

1. Sans Beast

❤︎❤︎

Materials: AppleSkin™, MIRUM®, recycled PU

Price: $50 - 285

Discover the avant-garde world of Sans Beast.

Crafting bold and unique bags from vegan leather, they champion cruelty-free fashion while promoting transparent and ethical sourcing, setting a high standard for animal-friendly accessories.

This crossbody shown (the Bandolier) has a front pocket big enough for your iPhone 14 Pro Max!

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2. Svala

❤︎❤︎❤︎

Materials: Piñatex® (Pineapple leather), MIRUM®, cork, PU, BioVeg 

Price: $220 - 298

Svala handbags are crafted in LA with materials sourced from Europe. They use a wide range of vegan leather alternatives for their handbags, including Piñatex®, MIRUM®, cork, and BioVeg (made from recycled polyester from plastic bottles and bio polyols). Svala donates 10% of profits to various charities and organizations, including Wild Aid, whose mission is to end the illegal wildlife trade. 

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3. Mashu

❤︎❤︎

Materials: Piñatex®, Frumat (apple leather), VEGEA, BioVeg

Price: $259 - 596

Founded in 2017 by Greek designer Ioanna Topouzoglou, Mashu combines style and consciousness to create luxury pieces from eco-friendly materials.

Their handbags are designed with Art Deco and Cycladic architecture serving as inspiration, with incredible use of different materials and asymmetric silhouettes.

The gold plated hardware and organic shapes of the handles really make these bags stand out in a crowd and proves you don’t need animal leather to achieve high-quality, fashion-forward products. 

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4. Will’s Vegan Store

❤︎❤︎

Materials: Bio-based vegan leather

Price: $52 - 170

Find satchels, briefcases, duffel bags and backpacks at Will’s Vegan Store.

Classic designs and high-quality craftsmanship give these bags such a timeless feel.

Their bags are handmade with Italian vegan leather made with plants created with bio oil sourced from organic cereal crops grown in Northern Europe in a carbon neutral process.

Will’s Vegan Store produces their bags in Portugal under European Union employment, discrimination and health & safety law.

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5. Pixie Mood

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Materials: Recycled vegan leather, cork

Price: $26 - 118

Pixie Mood specializes in crafting sustainable handbags using recycled vegan leather, cork and recycled rPET for the lining material.

With a wide range of different bag styles including weekender, bucket, waist, shoulder, tote and crossbody, you’ll have no problem finding something to suit your style.

They also offset their carbon emissions and use biodegradable packaging.

Pixie Mood is a member of 1% for the Planet and Terrapass and partners with One Tree Planted and Humane Society to drive positive change for our planet. 

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6. Stella McCartney

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Materials: VEGEA, Mylo™, MIRUM®, Alter Nappa (PU leather)

Price: $425 - 2,650

British designer brand, Stella McCartney, is renowned for its luxurious vegan handbags made from innovative leather alternatives such as VEGEA (grape-based leather), Mylo™ (mushroom leather) and MIRUM. The brand is committed to sustainability and ethical practices throughout its supply chain and is constantly exploring new technologies and processes to improve environmental practices and make sustainable vegan alternatives more accessible.

Stella McCartney’s most famous handbag is the Falabella, but they make crossbody bags, totes, shoulder bags and backpacks. 

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7. LaBante London

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Materials: PU, recycled polyester

Price: $125 - 540

LaBante London specializes in vegan leather handbags crafted from ethically sourced materials, including recycled plastic bottles and vegetable-derived PU. They create fashionable totes, crossbody bags, and backpacks.

Labante is committed to ethical production practices and only works with factories with SEDEX Certification, which guarantees transparency in business practices and respectful treatment of workers.

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8. Von Holzhausen

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Materials: Technik-Leather

Price: $295 - 495

Von Holzhausen creates minimalist bags known for their timeless appeal and sustainable construction.

Find shoppers, totes, crossbodies and more in their collection.

These bags are made from animal-friendly Technik-Leather, a material free of PVC and other harmful substances, embodying their dedication to luxury with an eco-friendly approach.

You can even send your bag back if it’s reached the end of its lifespan and Von Holzhausen will recycle it for you. 

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9. Elvis & Kresse *

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Materials: upcycled fire hose material, reclaimed leather offcuts

Price: $208 - 488

Founded in 2005, Elvis & Kresse specializes in upcycling materials like decommissioned fire hoses into unique handbags. For over a decade none of London’s fire-hose has gone to landfill and over 300 tonnes of material has been reclaimed. You can find totes, post bags, reporter bags, laptop bags and crossbody bags in deep reds, mustards and black.

Elvis & Kresse are B-Corp certified and a living wage employer and 50% of profits from their fire-hose range are donated to The Fire Fighters Charity.

*Elvis & Kresse also use reclaimed animal leather from discarded offcuts from Burberry. 

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10. Melie Bianco

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Materials: Recycled PU

Price: $60 - 165

Melie Bianco designs vegan leather handbags that are eco-friendly and stylish. Their collection includes a wide range of trendy and classic handbags, including top handle bags, crossbody bags, shoulder bags, totes and backpacks.

Melie Bianco uses recycled PU to make their bags and ensure the factories they work with uphold high safety & well-being standards as well as fair pay. 

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11. Gunas

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Materials: PU coated canvas, recycled rPET

Price: $156 - 299

Founded in 2009, Gunas promotes conscious consumerism and offers cruelty-free, PETA-approved vegan leather handbags made from recycled materials. Gunas is a Sanskrit word which translates as “quality, peculiarity, attribute, or tendency.”

Their collection includes clutches, totes, crossbody bags, and backpacks.

They are also women and minority-owned.

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12. Matt & Nat

Materials: AppleSkin™, recycled vegan leather, canvas

Price: $40 - 275

Possibly the most well-known vegan cruelty-free brand, Matt & Nat have been creating high-quality vegan products since 1995.

They are PETA-approved and committed to using vegan alternatives to leather and are constantly developing their sustainability practices to make their products more sustainable.

They create sleek, minimalist handbags in various designs such as crossbody, shoulder bags, weekenders and totes. Matt & Nat tend to mostly use creams, greens, browns and blacks across their collection, making them perfect for building capsule collections around as they can complement a range of different outfits. They use recycled plastic bottles to create the lining of their bags and use 21 bottles for each bag. 

*while this isn’t one of our favorite brands, we wanted to mention them because of their long commitment to cruelty-free and vegan fashion

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About the Author

Sarah King is a freelance writer with a focus on vegan fashion, sustainability and ethically made clothes. She campaigns for change in the fashion industry through her blog and on her Instagram page.

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