11 Non-Toxic Shoe Brands
Written by:
Maia James
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:
- Formaldehyde and other VOCS can be released from adhesives and finishing agents and can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat.
- Phthalates are sometimes found in shoe soles.
- Heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and chromium may be used in dyes and pigments used in shoes.
- 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.
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.
Bryr
Bryr focuses on handcrafted wooden clogs made from sustainably sourced materials, and with minimal chemical usage.
Cariuma
Cariuma employs responsibly sourced, natural materials like organic canvas, and demonstrates a commitment to minimizing environmental impact and avoiding toxic chemicals.
Feit
Feit utilizes vegetable-tanned leathers and natural dyes, eschewing synthetic materials and harmful chemicals to create toxin-free, high-quality footwear.
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Haflinger
Haflinger specializes in comfortable, wool-felted shoes that prioritize natural, breathable materials and avoid the use of toxic adhesives or artificial dyes.
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.
Nisolo
Nisolo emphasizes ethical craftsmanship, utilizing vegetable-tanned leathers and natural materials to create shoes free from harmful toxins and synthetic chemicals.
Po-Zu
Po-Zu’s footwear is made with organic, natural materials like cork and coconut husks.
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.
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.
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.
Note: This article contains affiliate links or sponsored content, which means that if you make a purchase, we may earn a commission. We only recommend products that meet our strict standards for non-toxicity and that we use (or want to use!) ourselves. Thank you so much for supporting the brands that make Good Stuff!
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One response to “11 Non-Toxic Shoe Brands ”
What about Veja or Dooeys House Shoes?
Also, should we be concerned about brands like Rothy’s and AllBirds that use recycled plastics — I thought it was bad for our skin to stay in prolonged contact with plastics (especially recycled plastics that might have higher probability of containing BPA/BPS)?
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