Hey, friends! It’s my favorite time of year again: fall. The leaves are turning, the air is growing crisper every day, and we’re all looking to get outside and hang out with friends and family. The most important accessory for any fall outfit? Boots! From pumpkin patch adventures to date nights under the stars, I’ve collected the top 12 sustainable boot brands to invest in this fall. So grab a warm beverage and let’s explore the best styles this season has to offer.

Sustainable Boots FAQs

What makes a boot sustainable?

Sustainable boots are produced with a focus on minimizing environmental impact by improving resource use, waste management, product durability, and product circularity. They are typically crafted out of eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, cork, recycled synthetics, and leather, with responsible manufacturing processes and a commitment to fair labor practices. All of this to say: sustainable boots have a lower carbon footprint!

 

How can I ensure that my boots are sustainably made?

Look for certifications or labels from recognized organizations, like Fair Trade or B Corp. Additionally, research the brand’s sustainability commitments on their website, and double-check how transparent they are in terms of production practices and supply chain. For quick research, I love Good on You, a roadmap to good fashion choices that ranks fashion brands’ sustainability efforts on a scale of 1 to 5.

 

What is the difference between vegan and sustainable boots?

Vegan boots are made without any animal-derived materials, while sustainable boots incorporate eco-friendly and responsibly sourced materials. However, some brands create boots that are both vegan and sustainable, combining the best of both.

 

12 Best Sustainable Boot Brands

One of the things I adore about boots is their versatility. For relaxed outings like trips to the local farmer’s market, ankle boots are your best bet. When you’re stepping out for a romantic dinner or a cozy date night, throw on knee-high boots. Transitioning straight from the office to a meeting? Classic heeled boots will do the job. In other words, the right pair of boots can transform your entire outfit. Here are the sustainable boot brands we’re loving currently:

 

1. Alohas

ALOHAS believes that fashion shouldn’t cost the earth. Designed and handcrafted in Spain, this sustainable footwear brand offers stylish and eco-friendly boots, and is committed to using environmentally conscious materials in their designs.

 

 

2. Eileen Fisher

This well-established brand champions recycling clothing, sourcing sustainable fabrics, and fighting against unfair labor conditions. Their boot designs are made from recycled plastic bottles and recycled polyester. Plus, they’re super stylish.

 

 

3. Everlane

Recognized for its transparency and modern, minimalist aesthetic, Everlane strives for ethical manufacturing and transparent pricing. Their boots are made from renewed plastic bottles (9 per pair, to be exact), so you and the planet can look your best.

 

 

4. Hunter

A renowned British brand famous for its durable and stylish rain boots. As of 2022, 65 percent of Hunter’s collection will incorporate FSC-certified rubber, Bloom algae foam or recycled textiles, 100 percent of Hunter’s packaging will be recyclable, and Hunter will become carbon neutral across its direct global operations. By 2025, all of Hunter’s rubber footwear will be Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. They will also work with the World Land Trust to protect endangered forests.

 

 

5. Loeffler Randall

Founded by Jessie Randall, the brand offers stylish boots with attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and unique textures. Loeffler Randall designates their own materials, which gives them better visibility into their supply chain. Plus, 50% of their tanneries are rated by the Leather Working Group, a third-party that rates based on environmental stewardship, and they are working to increase that percentage. Learn more about their sustainability commitments here.

 

6. Nisolo

A great brand dedicated to fair trade practices in shoemaking. They offer high-quality, ethically produced footwear and accessories while supporting artisans in Peru and Mexico. Nisolo has developed five core pillars of its Sustainability Framework: People, Planet, Transparency, Accountability, and Ecosystem Building. You can learn more about their sustainability initiatives here.

 

 

7. Reformation

A sustainable fashion brand known for its chic and eco-friendly clothing. They prioritize sustainable fabrics and ethical manufacturing, offering stylish options for environmentally conscious consumers. Read their sustainability report here.

 

 

8. Sézane

A French brand with a focus on timeless, feminine fashion. They offer a variety of clothing and accessories with an emphasis on quality and sustainability. 3/4 of the materials used in their collections are eco-friendly. This includes organic cotton, certified materials, recycled polyester and vegetable-tanned leather.

 

 

9. Stella McCartney

A luxury fashion brand with a strong commitment to cruelty-free and sustainable fashion. They create high-end, animal-friendly clothing and accessories known for their innovative designs. According to Time Magazine, Stella McCartney is “also a pioneer, collaborating with startups on the cruelty-free, sustainable materials—like grape-based leather, forest-friendly rayon and recycled cashmere—that made up 90% of her latest two collections.”

 

 

10. The RealReal

“The most sustainable garment is the one that already exists,” according to the RealReal. This luxury consignment and resale platform authenticates and resells pre-owned designer fashion items, allowing consumers to buy and sell luxury goods sustainably.

 

11. Timberland

A well-known brand for outdoor footwear that uses recycled plastic and rubber for more sustainable boots. Their ReBOTL™ technology turns plastic bottles into recycled PET that they use in their products.

 

12. Vivaia

A sustainable footwear brand specializing in comfortable, eco-friendly shoes. They utilize recycled and renewable materials in their shoe production, prioritizing both style and sustainability.

 

Sustainable Boot Care 101

To keep your fall boots well-maintained throughout the season, follow these essential care tips:

1. Cleaning: After every wear, give your boots a gentle wipe-down or brush-off to remove dirt and dust.
2. Conditioning: If your boots are leather or suede, apply a suitable conditioner to maintain them.
3. Weatherproofing: Invest in a good-quality weatherproof spray to keep your boots safe from rain and snow.
4. Storage: Store them in a cool, dry place. If you want to maintain their shape, consider using boot shapers or simply roll up some magazines and tuck them inside.
5. Rotation: Love all your boots equally! Give each pair a break now and then to avoid excessive wear on one. This extends the lifespan of your boots.

 

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you loved this list of sustainable boot brands. If you’re looking for more style advice, click here.

XO, Kim