Vegan and eco-friendly walking boots aren’t always easy to come by. There are more choices now than a few years ago, but truly sustainable vegan shoes are still pretty rare. Often it means making trade-offs, like swapping leather for synthetic fabrics to avoid animal products.

So, what are the best vegan walking shoes? Durable non-leather boots are a solid start, and some brands are beginning to work in recycled plastics and foams. It’s not a perfect solution, but it does give you a way to walk through the town or hike with gear that’s a little kinder to the planet.

The Best Vegan Walking Shoes

1. Vessi Weekend Sneaker 

Men

Women

Features:

• Waterproof knit Dyma-tex® construction

• Low-cut sneaker form, more flexible around ankle

• Good grip outsole for mixed surfaces

• Cushioning and shock absorption in heel/midsole

• Vegan & PFAS-free materials

This Vessi Weekend Sneaker uses the same waterproof Dyma-tex® knit but with a lighter build made for daily wear, travel, or easier hikes. It has good traction for mixed surfaces, plus cushioning in the midsole and heel to ease fatigue. The lower cut makes it easier to slip on and pair with casual outfits while allowing more ankle movement.

The tradeoff is less coverage. Water can get in from above, debris is harder to keep out, and ankle support is limited on steep climbs. They stay light and comfortable, though, which makes them the best vegan walking shoes for commuting, walking, or light trails. 

Pros:

• Lightweight and flexible for day-to-day walking

• Waterproof so suitable in rain or wet city environments

• Good grip and comfort

Cons:

• Less ankle protection/support

2. Vessi Pacific Sneaker 

Men

Women

Features:

• Waterproof knit material (Dyma-tex-type)

• Low-cut sneaker style for flexibility and lighter weight

• Cushioned midsole, comfort features

• Reliable grip outsole for various surfaces

• Vegan + PFAS-free build

The Pacific Sneaker blends everyday comfort with waterproof protection. It uses Vessi’s waterproof knit+, has cushioning in the midsole, and a grippy outsole, making it a good match for travel, light outdoor walks, and wet conditions while still fitting in with casual style.

Because it’s a lighter, low-cut sneaker, it offers less ankle support and less protection from rough elements than boots or high tops. It can also wear faster on rocky or muddy trails. For daily walking, commuting, and travel, though, it hits a nice balance of comfort and function.

Pros:

• Very comfortable for long walks or travel days

• Waterproof protection for wet environments

• Stylish and versatile

Cons:

• Limited ankle protection

3. Vessi Market Flat 

Features:

• Waterproof knit textile construction

• Flat sole profile, simpler styling

• Vegan and PFAS-free materials

• Grip outsole and decent cushioning typical of Vessi design

The Vessi Market Flat leans the most toward casual and dressy wear. It keeps Vessi’s waterproof knit and eco-friendly build but comes with a slimmer profile, flatter sole, and lightweight feel. It works well for city walks, travel, or anytime you want something comfortable that still looks polished.

Since the sole is flatter, you get less arch and heel cushioning than in sturdier walking shoes, and the low cut means less protection if water splashes in from above. For everyday wear on paved routes, though, it’s a reliable choice that balances style with function.

Pros:

• Lightweight, comfortable for daily walking

• Stylish, versatile feel—can pair with many outfits

• Waterproof, ethical materials

Cons:

• Less cushioning than mid-sole heavy shoes

4. Vessi Stormburst High Top

Men

Women 

Features:

• Waterproof knit Dyma-tex® with 4 soft/flexible layers

• Rugged outsole for grip on many surfaces

• Dual-density midsole with heel shock absorption

• Sock-like fit, easy on/off

• PFAS-free, fully vegan materials

The Vessi Stormburst High Top mixes solid protection with the easy feel of a sneaker. It’s made with Vessi’s Dyma-tex® waterproof knit, a flexible fabric designed to keep water out while staying comfortable for movement. The outsole has a tough grip for different surfaces, and the dual-density midsole with a cushioned heel pad helps cut down on fatigue when walking over hard or uneven ground. The sock-like fit and simple lacing also make it quick to slip on and off.

It’s fully vegan and PFAS-free, which is ideal if you want eco-conscious materials without leather or chemicals. The higher cut gives ankle support, but it also adds a bit more bulk and weight compared to lighter trail shoes. Still, it is our pick for the best vegan walking boots.

Pros:

• Excellent waterproofing + comfort

• Good traction, suitable for varied walking surfaces

• Ankle support from the high top style

• Ethical build (vegan, PFAS-free)

Cons:

• Bulkier/heavier than low-top walking shoes

• Might feel warmer in hot weather

5. Vessi Weekend Chelsea Boot 

Men

Women

Features:

• Waterproof knit Dyma-tex® shell

• Chelsea-boot slip-on style (easy to put on/off)

• Good grip outsole suitable for mixed surfaces

• All-day comfort cushioning etc.

• Vegan & PFAS-free materials

The Vessi Weekend Chelsea Boot has a better design that is suited for city walking, where you want shoes that are both waterproof and stylish. It uses Vessi’s Dyma-tex® knit shell for full waterproof protection and has a Chelsea boot slip-on style, which makes it quick and easy to wear. The outsole still provides reliable grip, and the cushioning keeps it comfortable for daily use.

Since it’s a Chelsea boot, there are no laces to adjust, so the fit has to feel right from the start. The ankle support is lighter than what you’d get from a full boot, and while it works well for rain, puddles, and everyday wear, it may not hold up as strongly for heavy hiking or very muddy conditions. For commuting, walking around town, or light trails, it works well.

Pros:

• Stylish yet functional for daily walking

• Waterproof so good for wet urban environments

• Comfortable, cushioned, fairly easy to wear

Cons:

• Less ankle support than full boot styles

6. Vessi Alta High Top 

Men

Women

Features:

• Waterproof knit textile construction

• High-top ankle coverage/support

• Cushioned midsoles, shock-absorbing heels etc.

• Rugged outsole for grip

• Vegan, PFAS-free materials

The Alta High Top blends the look of a boot with features made for walking comfort. It uses Vessi’s waterproof knit to keep your feet dry, supports the ankle with a higher cut, and has cushioned soles that ease pressure on longer walks. The grip and shock absorption also help when moving across both urban and rural ground.

It is lighter and less bulky than heavy hiking boots, though that means you lose some of the toughness that thick leather and reinforcements provide. Breathability holds up well for a waterproof shoe, but in hot or humid weather high tops can feel warmer. Overall, it offers a good mix of style, waterproofing, and comfort.

Pros:

• Good ankle protection for walking on uneven ground

• Waterproof and comfortable for extended wear

• Stylish enough for city/travel use

Cons:

• Warm in hotter weather

7. Lightweight Hiking Boots Ideal for Speed, by Inov-8

Features:

• Weight: Approximately 345g per boot

• Waterproofing: Gore-Tex membrane

• Sole Material: Gum rubber & graphene composite

• Terrain Suitability: Rocky, muddy, slippery trails

• Fit: Snug, better for off-road use

If you’re after boots that feel light on your feet but still hold up well outdoors, the Inov-8 Roclite G 345 GTX fits that need nicely. At about 345 grams, they’re some of the lightest boots you’ll come across, yet the sole combines natural gum rubber with graphene, so you get solid durability without relying entirely on synthetics.

The Gore-Tex lining keeps water out, and the grip is built for tricky ground, whether that’s rocky trails or muddy paths. They’re great for quicker hikes where you want to move fast, though they can feel a bit stiff and less at home on paved streets. The fit is on the snug side too, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re used to roomier boots.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight for hiking boots

• Durable graphene-enhanced sole

• Excellent grip on rugged terrain

• Effective waterproofing with Gore-Tex

Cons:

• Snug fit may be restrictive for some

• Less comfortable on paved or urban surfaces

8. Minimalist Walking Boots with Barefoot Style, by Vivobarefoot

Features:

• Lightweight and breathable

• Recycled PET construction for sustainability

• Flexible design with barefoot feel

• 3mm lug outsole for light to moderate trails

• Water-resistant rather than waterproof

The Vivobarefoot Magna Trail is built for those who like a stripped-down, lightweight feel rather than the usual bulk of hiking boots. You still get ankle coverage, but the design keeps things flexible and easy to move in. Its sole uses a 3mm lug pattern that grips across different surfaces, though it doesn’t provide the same heavy-duty protection as a traditional boot.

The upper and lining are made from recycled PET, which gives it some sustainability points. Water resistance is there, but these aren’t fully waterproof, so they’re better suited for drier conditions. The fit is snug and sock-like, which feels very natural once you adjust to it, but it may not be the best choice for everyone on more demanding terrain.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight and flexible

• Eco-friendly materials

• Great ground feel for natural walking style

• Comfortable for short to mid-range walks

Cons:

• Not fully waterproof

• Limited protection on rough terrain

• Fit may not suit everyone

Buying Guide for the Best Vegan Walking Shoes

a) Make Sure It’s Vegan

Look closely at the materials so you know there’s no leather, suede, or wool hiding in the mix. Most vegan shoes stick to synthetics like polyurethane or rubber, which are durable and comfortable. Glues can be a gray area since some contain animal byproducts, but many companies now use synthetic ones that work just as well.

b) Use Cases

Your choice should match the kind of walking you do most. Lightweight walking shoes are great if you want to move fast over mixed terrain. Minimal designs work better for long, easygoing treks where bulk would just slow you down. Amphibious styles make sense for wet or slippery trails since they grip well on rocks and in water. And if sustainability matters to you, the best vegan walking shoes made with recycled or low-impact materials give you comfort with less environmental strain.

c) Comfort

Comfort matters most on long hikes or when you’re carrying extra weight, so certain shoes put a big emphasis on cushioning and support. The best vegan walking shoes and boots can be helpful on trails since they keep your feet dry and steady. And if you’re tackling rocky or rough ground, a stable trail runner can give you the balance and control you need.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Walking Boots and Shoes

1. What are the best vegan shoe brands?

Some of the most trusted vegan shoe brands are the ones that commit fully, like Vessi, Vivobarefoot, and Will’s Vegan Store. Since everything they make is vegan, you don’t have to think twice about materials. Bigger outdoor names such as Merrell, Inov-8, and Adidas also offer vegan shoes, though usually as part of a wider range. If you want the most variety, it’s easier with brands that focus only on vegan options.

2. Are Adidas Terrex vegan?

Not every pair qualifies, but certain models are free from leather and animal-based glues. Adidas has been putting more effort into vegan and sustainable choices, often made with recycled plastics or synthetic fabrics. To be sure, it’s always worth checking the product details online, since the vegan ones are clearly labeled.

3. What are 100% vegan shoes?

A shoe that’s 100% vegan means every part of it is free from animal ingredients. That goes beyond the obvious stuff like leather, suede, or wool and also includes the dyes, linings, and even the glue holding everything together. To meet that standard, most brands use synthetics such as polyurethane, nylon, or recycled polyester, plus water-based adhesives. When a shoe is labeled “100% vegan,” it usually means the whole thing has been checked and confirmed animal-free.

4. Are vegan shoes good quality?

Vegan shoes have come a long way. Modern synthetics can be just as tough and comfortable as leather, sometimes even better at resisting water or scuffs. Recycled materials are also showing up more, which helps with both durability and sustainability. Of course, the build quality still depends on the brand, so it’s worth sticking with companies known for their vegan focus or outdoor labels that clearly mark their certified vegan styles.