11 Non-Toxic Shoe Brands 

We often worry about the toxins our shoes bring into our homes–but what about the shoes themselves?

Depending on the specific materials used, shoes may contain some of the following problematic contaminants:

1. Formaldehyde and other VOCS can be released from adhesives and finishing agents and can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat.
2. Phthalates are sometimes found in shoe soles.
3. Heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and chromium may be used in dyes and pigments used in shoes.
4. Leather undergoes a tanning process that typically uses chromium, formaldehyde, and other solvents. Chrome-free leather is much cleaner, and the cleanest leather of all is is chrome-free and vegetable dyed.

How can you identify a non-toxic shoe brand?

What follows are 11 shoe brands that endeavor to limit toxins and be gentler on the environment.

Allbirds

Allbirds prioritizes sustainability and uses natural materials like merino wool and eucalyptus fibers to make their shoes.

shop allbirds

Bhava

Bhava crafts their shoes using eco-friendly and cruelty-free materials, such as organic cotton, cork, and recycled plastics, while also avoiding toxic dyes and glues.

shop Bhava

Bryr

Bryr focuses on handcrafted wooden clogs made from sustainably sourced materials, and with minimal chemical usage.

shop Bryr

Cariuma

Cariuma employs responsibly sourced, natural materials like organic canvas, and demonstrates a commitment to minimizing environmental impact and avoiding toxic chemicals.

shop cariuma

Feit

Feit utilizes vegetable-tanned leathers and natural dyes, eschewing synthetic materials and harmful chemicals to create toxin-free, high-quality footwear.

shop feit

Haflinger

Haflinger specializes in comfortable, wool-felted shoes that prioritize natural, breathable materials and avoid the use of toxic adhesives or artificial dyes.

shop haflinger

Nae 

Nae is dedicated to creating vegan and eco-friendly footwear, employing sustainable materials like organic cotton, cork, and recycled plastics, while avoiding toxic substances in their production.

shop nae

Nisolo

Nisolo emphasizes ethical craftsmanship, utilizing vegetable-tanned leathers and natural materials to create shoes free from harmful toxins and synthetic chemicals.

shop nisolo

Po-Zu

Po-Zu’s footwear is made with organic, natural materials like cork and coconut husks.

shop po-zu

Rothy’s

Rothy’s transforms recycled plastic bottles into comfortable, washable shoes using a proprietary knit process, eliminating the need for toxic glues or dyes in their production.

shop rothy’s

TOMS

TOMS is known for its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, and they use eco-friendly materials, while also giving back to communities in need.

shop toms

Are there other brands of ethically made non-toxic shoes that should be in our radar? Comment below!

Stay sane,

Maia, Founder & CEO

P.S. Are you wondering about toxin-free shoes for kids? Here are four brands we like.