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 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.