Did you fall in love with a pair of wide fit shoes, but you have typical-width feet?

The good news is, you can often get away with wearing wide fit shoes with normal feet by using insoles or thick soles, and shoes with laces and slim-fitted uppers can also feel comfortable even if they are too wide.

However, wearing wide shoes that don’t fit your feet may lead to improper support, sore feet, and blisters. Below, we discuss 5 ways to make wide shoes fit typical-width feet comfortably. Let’s get started:

1. Insert Insoles

Insoles and footbeds are designed to accommodate wider feet, flat feet, high arches, and other shapes and needs. If you have typical-width feet, add a pair for footbeds so your feet will be supported even if you’re wearing a wide width shoe. 

If you have average width feet and often feel soreness near the ball of your foot, you may need additional support in the toe box area, especially if you are fitting standard feet in a pair of shoes with a wide toe box or bridge. 

Our Recommendations:

• Performance Medium With Met Pad: These orthopedic-approved ReCORK footbeds are designed to mold to the unique shape of your foot. They promote natural foot alignment, reduce pain, and fit any shoe size.
• Cascadia High Arch Insoles: Whether you wear wide fit shoes or medium width shoes, Tread and Butter insoles are designed for all-day comfort! These insoles may just be the extra layer of cushioning you need to wear wider shoes. 
• The Classic Insole: Fulton insoles are designed by doctors — built for custom comfort. These insoles are widely popular in treating back, knee, and foot pain. Even if you have narrow feet and wear shoes made for wide feet, Fulton insoles will provide proper support and reduce your pain.

2. Wear Thick Socks

If you have wide fit shoes but narrow feet, add a pair of thick socks, which will better prevent your feet from slipping and rubbing. Similar to when you’re trying to make big shoes fit smaller, cushioned socks act as a secondary lining for your shoes. 

Look for companies that use cruelty-free, ZQ-Certified Merino wool or other breathable materials so that your feet will feel snug & comfy without feeling stuffy & sweaty. 

Our Recommendations:

• Women’s Hike Light Cushion Low Ankle Socks: The 4 Degree Elite Fit System in these Smartwool ankle socks prevents socks from slipping and your feet from blisters. With the lightweight cushioning, your narrow feet will feel extra comfortable in wide shoes.
• Lightweight Merino Performance Anklet Socks: These lightweight ankle socks by Patagonia are perfect for running, hiking, and everyday activity! These lightly cushioned, RWS-Certified wool socks are made with animal welfare and customer comfort in mind!

3. Add a Pair of Heel Grips or Liners

Whether you have wide feet or not, heel grips can help reduce the space in your heels or dress shoes so that your shoes fit your feet more securely. However, sometimes heel grips are not enough — and when it comes to wearing heels, it’s not worth sacrificing balance and safety over style. 

Instead, if you’re consistently struggling to find shoes to fit your narrow feet, consider consulting a cobbler for resizing options — or use a service that allows you to customize your shoes! 

Our Recommendations:

• Heel Grips: These heel grips by Vegetarian Shoes may be the quick fix you need to prevent rubbing, digging, or blistering in your favorite pair of pumps, stilettos, dress shoes, or high-heeled boots!
• Design Your Shoes: Solely Original is an online shoe tailoring company where you can customize your unique style and shoe size! Whether you have narrow or wide feet, Solely Original gives you the freedom to design your shoes to be as unique as the step of your foot!

4. Avoid Slip-On Shoes & Opt For Laces Instead

Extra-width slip-on shoes are not the best for narrow feet because they offer very little support. By design, slip-on shoes slide easily onto your feet, making them easier to slide off. If your feet move around too easily in your shoes, it will lead to rubbing, irritation, and blisters. 

Instead, shop for lace-up shoe designs. If you prefer the simple, minimalist look of a slip-on shoe, look for casual sneakers with fewer eyelets to lace, exposing the upper bridge of your foot to create a cute, feminine look!

Our Recommendations:

• Tree Skipper: These breezy boat shoes by Allbirds feature uppers made with FSC-Approved eucalyptus fibers and odor & moisture-wicking insoles. This breathable summer style is the perfect casual shoe whether you have wide or narrow feet.
• Sixty Six Sneaker: These white slim-fitted sneakers by SeaVees are minimalist, sustainable, and versatile for every foot shape and style. Pair these chic white sneakers with a classic pair of denim jeans or your favorite dress.

5. Wear Shoes With Slim-Fitted Fabrics

Shoes made with laces and slim-fitted uppers will form around the bridge of your foot to create a customizable, comfortable fit. Fabrics like mesh, canvas, and recycled plastic are ideal when trying to find shoes that don’t depend on foot length or width to fit comfortably.

Look for casual sneakers with high-quality insoles and outsoles so you don’t have to compromise support for that sleek-fitted style.

Our Recommendations:

• Canyon Night Blue: These Tropicfeel sneakers are extraordinarily comfortable for all foot widths! These sporty running shoes feature waterproof uppers, which are made with recycled plastic bottles — designed to flex around your feet while offering structured support. 
• The Zilker (Men’s): Suavs’s slim-fitted footwear styles are made with moisture-wicking materials. The flexible uppers stretch around your feet to offer just the right amount of super while maintaining a minimalist chic look.

Conclusion 

Whether you’re shopping for wide or narrow shoes to accommodate your comfort and unique style, consider orthopedic solutions like inserting a pair of SOLE insoles or opting for flexible fabric uppers. These solutions promote all-day comfort, and optimal general health and will leave you loving your shoes for a lifetime! 

Are you shopping for shoes that are fashionable, affordable, and gentle on the environment?

Sustainable shoe brands are an alternative to traditional shoe brands that participate in fast fashion — a production strategy that uses low-quality materials and unethical practices. Instead, sustainable brands use renewable materials that enhance the quality of footwear. Other shoe brands remove toxic materials from the environment by using recycled plastic bottles and textiles.

In this article, we will discuss the 15 best sustainable shoe brands that combine fashion, comfort, and Earth-focused values. To be featured in this list, companies must design high-quality footwear, source eco friendly materials, and use ethical practices that benefit customer satisfaction and environmental conservation.

Quick Links

• Best for the office: Rothy’s – uses renewable materials and recycled ocean plastic
• Best for casual shoes: SAOLA – bio-based shoes that support wildlife conservation programs
• Best for luxury fashion: VEERAH – vegan designer shoes with interchangeable accessories
• Best for sports & exercise: Allbirds – high-performance, sustainable sports shoes
• Best for orthopedic therapy: SOLE – carbon-negative shoes recommended by physical therapy patients

1. Rothy’s – Recycled Ocean Plastic Dress Shoes

Budget: $165 – $275

Features: Zero-Waste Certified Factories, Fair Wages, Recycled Water Bottles, Renewable Materials, Machine Washable, Versatile

Sizes: Full & Half sizes, Men’s, Women’s, Kids’

Rothy’s is a Zero-Waste Certified company fueled by a passion for combating our world’s plastic pollution crisis. Plastic is a non-biodegradable material and a danger to our ocean. Rothy’s reduces marine plastic by recycling plastic bottles into their signature thread. Wearing their shoes keeps plastic out of the ocean. Read Rothy’s blog to learn more about their sustainable achievements and dedication.

What is Rothy’s secret for designing soft and comfortable shoes yet so durable? Rothy’s Signature Thread is blended with recycled water bottles, ethically sourced RWS-Certified Merino wool, and hemp fiber, which strikes the perfect balance for long-lasting comfort. Their shoes are also made with bio-based materials, including algae, corn, natural minerals, and castor beans.

Rothy’s receives thousands of highly satisfied reviews from customers who love the all-day comfort, versatile options, and sophisticated style. To find your perfect fit, check out Rothy’s style guide. When you purchase Rothy’s shoes, you are not only being promised comfort, quality, and style; you are joining conservation efforts to restore our ocean’s health.

Range includes: Flats, loafers, slip ons, sneakers, boots, Mary-Janes, business, casual, formal, kids’ shoes

Our top picks: The Point (Women’s), The RS01 Sneaker (Men’s), The Driver

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2. SAOLA – Breathable Shoes Supporting Wildlife Conservation

Budget: $40 – $120

Features: Breathable Design, Casual, Sustainable Manufacturing, Biodegradable Materials, Proceeds Benefit Wildlife Conservation

Sizes: Full & half sizes, men’s & women’s

SAOLA was born with a passion for protecting endangered animal species and raising awareness about environmental issues through their famous line of eco friendly shoes. Their company is named after one of the most critically endangered species. With only a few hundred saolas (a relative of cows that resemble antelope, nicknamed the “Asian unicorn”) left, this sustainable shoe brand is fighting for its recovery.

For every pair of shoes purchased, SAOLA donates 1% of the proceeds to 1 of 6 restoration programs, which protect environmental regulations, coral reefs, and endangered species, including sun bears, sea turtles, bonobo monkeys, and animals native to Kenya. Visit SAOLA’s Wildlife Conservation page to learn more about the conservation programs associated with SAOLA.

SAOLA is highly rated for the lightweight comfort of their everyday sneakers and summer shoes. Their styles are made from recycled plastic bottles, which simulate the comfort and support of animal-based leather. Their shoes are constructed with Bloom algae outsoles, organic cotton laces, and natural cork insoles, which hug the bottom of your foot for custom comfort.

Range includes: Running sneakers, slip ons, casual footwear, sandals

Our top picks: Tsavo Sneakers (Men’s), Virunga Slip-on Shoes (Women’s)

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3. VEERAH – Beautiful Cruelty-Free Designer Shoes

Budget: $220 to $400

Features: Designer, Bridal, Customizable Add-ons, Comfortable Stilettos, 100% Vegan, Organic Cotton Lining, Recycled Plastic Bottles

Sizes: Women’ s full & half sizes

VEERAH is our designer pick! Their vegan heels are gorgeous, cruelty-free, and truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re shopping for your wedding day or searching for a unique accessory to complement your signature look, their shoes are perfect for any special occasion. Their shoes feel as luxurious as they look — and each pair is artistically designed to make any outfit unique.

VEERAH combats ocean plastic pollution by recycling plastic water bottles into high-end fashion. They also use renewable materials like algae, apple skins, and organic cotton. Check out VEERAH’s Shoe Accessories, which include clip brooches, straps, ribbons, and tassels, to achieve multiple looks with one pair of shoes.

Range includes: Boots, flats, sandals, mules, heels, pumps, bridal

Our top picks: Venus Strappy Heel w/Ribbon add-on, Hedy Ankle Boot, Mulan Vegan Suede Pump

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4. Allbirds – Eco Friendly Shoes Made For All Forms of Exercise

Budget: $40 – $160

Features: ZQ-Certified Wool, Wind Farm Partnerships, Fair Trade Practices, Water-Repellent Sneakers, Allbirds ReRun (Consignment Shop)

Sizes: Men’s, Women’s, Standard & Half sizes

Allbirds manufacture sustainable sneakers using 100% renewable energy and sponsors organizations that do the same. Allbirds Flight Plan outlines the company’s detailed plan to track, analyze, and ultimately eliminate their carbon footprint. They advocate for reducing pollution caused by fast fashion. Visit Allbirds ReRun, where you can also purchase or trade-in gently used Allbirds shoes.

Allbirds uses innovative, natural materials like sugarcane, recycled plastic bottles, ZQ-Certified wool, and Trino® (a combination of Merino wool and tree fibers). They also uses FSC-certified eucalyptus tree fibers grown in South Africa, where the trees can rely on natural rainfall. By eliminating traditional irrigation practices, Allbirds reduces their water usage by 95%.

Allbirds athletic shoes are made with eucalyptus fibers, which make shoes breathable, supportive, and perfect for running and high-intensity exercise. Looking for your next go-to pair of shoes? Check out their Water-Repellent Sneakers, made with cruelty-free wool and designed to wick away moisture to keep your feet dry and warm in cool, drizzly weather.

Range includes: Athletic shoes, vegan sneakers, casual footwear, hiking shoes, slippers, sandals

Our top picks: Men’s Tree Dashers, Women’s Wool Dasher Mizzles, Women’s Tree Breezers

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5. SOLE – Orthopedic-Approved Bio-Based Footwear

Budget: $65 – $150

Features: Carbon-Negative Materials, Partners With ReCork, Quality Arch Support & Orthopedic Treatment

Sizes: Men’s, Women’s, Standard & Half sizes

SOLE insoles and footwear are stylish, sustainably certified, and clinically proven to prevent and rehabilitate foot pain and injury. They design their products by setting strict standards of ethical practices and consulting medical expertise regarding orthopedic health. Their footbeds and footwear are clinically proven to help rehabilitate injuries and reduce strain in conditions like plantar fasciitis by 34%.

SOLE uses carbon-negative materials (natural materials that benefit the environment) like Bloom (algae harvested from harmful algal blooms) and cork, harvested from the tree bark without harming or cutting down the tree itself. SOLE also partners with ReCork, a recycling program that sets up stations for the public to drop off their unwanted wine corks to be recycled into high quality products.

Cork is porous and lightweight — ideal for insoles and footbeds. It effectively wicks away moisture and provides outstanding shock absorption so that long days are not tough on your feet. SOLE carries a wide selection of sustainable boots, booties, and attractive, flip-flops which physical therapist patients widely recommend for their outstanding arch support and overall comfort.

Range includes: Flip-flops, supportive running shoes, casual footwear, boots, flats

Our top picks: District by Recork Grade (Men’s), District by Recork Lark (Women’s)

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6. Reformation – Fair Trade Certified Sustainable Shoes

Budget: $50 to $430

Features: Climate Neutral Certified, Innovative & Sustainable Materials, Green Business Certified, Elegant Fashion, thredUP Partnership

Sizes: Women’s full & half sizes

Reformation is a Climate Neutral Certified clothing and footwear company leading the fashion industry in earth-friendly manufacturing practices. They also partner with thredUP, an online consignment shop that encourages shoppers to purchase gently used clothing and apparel to reduce the amount of textile waste contributing to landfills worldwide.

Reformation’s Better Materials page rates sustainable materials based on their environmental impact. Their eco friendly materials include recycled cotton, Deadstock (leftover fabric from the fashion industry), NATIVA (ethically sourced wool), and TENCEL™ from fibers (FSC-Certified wood fibers). Visit their website to read about their transparent goals and ambitious mission to be Climate Positive by 2025.

Shop for summer-themed strappy sandals, vibrant colored pumps, classy black heels, or elegant wedding shoes. Reformation shoes are made with Gold and Silver-standard vegetable tanned leather, which they plan to swap out for sustainable vegan options in the future. Check out their vegan styles like the Alessa Lace-Up Wedge, which is made with flax and significantly reduces water usage.

Range includes: Boots, flats, heels, sandals, wedges, sneakers, mules, loafers, platforms

Our top picks: Alessa Lace Up Wedge Espadrille, Pia Knotted Heeled Sandal, Millie Lattice Flat Sandal

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7. Will’s Vegan Store – High Quality Dress Shoes & Work Boots

Budget: $50 – $200

Features: Carbon Neutral Certified, 100% Vegan, High Quality Shoes, Organic Cotton Lining, Green Packaging, Dress Shoes, Waterproof Boots

Sizes: Full & half sizes, Men’s, Women’s

Searching for vegan leather shoes that look as sophisticated and classy as traditional cow leather? Will’s Vegan Store features high quality, beautifully-made Italian vegan leather dress shoes, heels, and work boots designed to treat nature right. Customers report wearing their Will’s Vegan shoes for years without any breakdown in durability.

Vegan leather qualifies as sustainable when it’s constructed with bio-based and recycled materials, manufactured using eco-conscious practices, and when the quality is so exceptional that it reduces the number of shoes ending up in landfills. Will’s Vegan Store uses sustainable materials like organic cotton, plants from cereal crops, and viscose (a natural oil derived from eucalyptus trees).

Will’s Vegan Store does not participate in fast fashion trends like Black Friday and summer sales, resulting in shoppers tossing out unwanted impulse purchases. Instead, Will’s shoes are made to love and last for years. Whether you’re shopping for fashion, function, or both, Will’s eco friendly shoes are worn in the office, rain, workshop, mountains, snow, and everyday setting.

Range includes: Boots, dress shoes, vegan sneakers, running trainers, heels, pumps, flats, sandals, work boots, hiking shoes, dock boots, waterproof & insulated options, high traction

Our top picks: Work Boots (Men’s & Women’s), High Heeled Cut Outs (Women’s), Slim Dress Shoes (Men’s), WVSport Waterproof Hiking Boots (Men’s & Women’s)

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8. Nothing New – Low & High Tops Made From Recycled Materials

Budget: $95 – $180

Features: Casual, Iconic Design, Recycled Water Bottles, Recycled Rubber, Ethical Production

Sizes: Full & Half sizes, Women’s, Men’s

Nothing New is a sustainable shoe brand that manufactures shoes made from upcycled industrial fishing nets, recycled polyester, and natural rubber. Their iconic low-top and high-top designs are meant to be classic and minimalistic so that one pair will become your go-to pair. Every pair of their sneakers repurposes 5.6 plastic water bottles, which reduces plastic waste.

Nothing New is Global Recycle Standard certified, which guarantees that their fabric is safe for the environment. Above all, Nothing New prioritizes sustainability. They started the Virtuous Cycle Program, which encourages customers to send back their worn-out Northing New shoes for a $20 credit towards a new pair.

Mix & match Nothing New high & low-tops by choosing from various colors, which can quickly change your look from casual fun to edgy chic. Check out their collection of Better Canvas, featuring shoes made with 100% recyclable materials, and the Leather² collection, featuring shoes made from upcycled Italian leather, which reduces water usage and carbon emissions by 80%.

Range includes: Casual shoes, low tops, high tops

Our top picks: Classic High Top (Men’s & Women’s), Classic Low Top (Men’s & Women’s), Wave (Men’s & Women’s)

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9. Baabuk – B Corp Certified Moisture-Wicking Wool Shoes 

Budget: $90 to $160

Features: B Corp Certified, Ethical Practices, Natural Materials, Customizable Designs, Water-Repellent, Machine Washable

Sizes: Full sizes, men’s & women’s

Baabuk is a B Corp Certified sustainable footwear company that sells high-quality eco friendly shoes. They use ethically-sourced wool, which follows a strict set of guidelines to ensure the health and wellbeing of free-range sheep. Wool is a natural, biodegradable material favorable for its moisture-wicking properties, making Baabuk shoes water-repellent, breathable, and cozy.

Sheep need their coats trimmed regularly to avoid illness and mobility issues. Sustainable shoe brands like Baabuk care for their sheep by maintaining their coats and providing adequate food, water, shelter, and pastures. They also work with endangered sheep through their Miss Baabuka Program, which protects and rehabilitates six different breeds of sheep native to Switzerland.

Baabuk’s website features many minimalist style sneakers, high-tops, ballet flats, and slippers. Their lightweight footwear is built for all seasons and made with soft, itch-free Merino wool lining. The natural latex soles are durable and slip-resistant. Their sustainable shoes are available in various colors, including the option to customize your sneakers to create your perfect look!

Range includes: Everyday shoes, high-top sneakers, ballet flats, slippers

Our top picks: Urban Wooler, Blacknose Sky Wooler, Wool Ballerina, Mel Slip-in Slipper

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10. Thousand Fell – 100% Recyclable Bio Leather Shoes

Budget: $100 – $110

Features: Zero-Waste Company, Recycled Shoes Program, Vegan Bio Leather, Minimalist Design, Organic Cotton Tote Packaging

Sizes: Full & Half sizes, Men’s, Women’s

Thousand Fell uses responsibly sourced and recycled materials to design Zero-Waste slip-on and lace-up sneakers. Their closed-loop manufacturing system means that their sneakers can be recycled instead of added to a landfill. Thousand Fell’s RECYCLE NOW program credits their customers $20 to send in their worn-out sneakers, which will get recycled into a new pair!

Thousand Fell recognizes the unavoidable environmental hazards of using leather (see FAQ section). Instead, they use plant-based and recycled materials like aloe vera, recycled & natural rubber, castor beans, coconut husk, sugar cane, and of course, recycled bottles.

Thousand Fell sneakers have a minimalist aesthetic and durable design. Their signature bio leather mimics the appearance and quality of white leather sneakers. Their shoes feature a stain-proof, water-resistant coating made from natural quartz to enhance longevity. They also include insoles made from recycled yoga mats, which feel as comfortable as they sound!

Range includes: Lace-up sneakers, slip-on shoes, court shoes, white bio leather sneakers

Our top picks: Lace Up (Men’s & Women’s), Slip On (Men’s & Women’s), Court Shoes (Men’s & Women’s)

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11. ABLE – Timeless Styles Made From Repurposed Leather 

Budget: $70 – $125

Features: Versatile, Long-Lasting, Repurposed Materials, Recycled Packaging, Fair Trade Practices

Sizes: Women’s Half & Full sizes

ABLE is an eco-conscious fashion company that prioritizes product quality and longevity. Their sustainable shoes are versatile to fit any occasion and well-made, so you can expect to wear them for years to come. The fewer items we have in our closet, the closer we get to reducing textile waste’s impact on the environment.

ABLE works with the Leather Working Group to repurpose discarded animal hides and scraps into leather shoes built to withstand a lifetime of love. Instead of using toxic chemicals, ABLE opts for vegetable tanned leather, which is environmentally safe. They also partner with leather companies that use closed-loop watering symptoms, which reduces water consumption.

Range includes: Sandals, sneakers, boots, heels, wedges, flats

Our top picks: Emmy Sneaker, Jones Heel, Elisa Sandal

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12. VEJA – B-Corp Certified Sustainable Shoes for All Ages 

Budget: $100 – $350

Features: B-Corp Certified, Zero-Waste Practices, Company Transparency, Fair Wages, Renewable Materials, Vegetable Tanned Leather Shoes 

Sizes: Full & Half sizes, Unisex sizing, Men’s, Women’s, Kids’ shoes

VEJA is widely known for their exceptional sustainable shoes and transparent values of environmental & social responsibility. VEJA fairly made shoes cost significantly more to manufacture because they carefully select innovative materials, follow strict fair trade guidelines, and eliminate the use of ads, which allows them to oversee every stage of production firsthand. Learn more about VEJA’s ad-free production here.

VEJA takes time to strategically design shoes they believe their customers will love today and 10 years from now. They design shoes made with bio-based and recycled materials, including recycled plastic, organic cotton, sugar cane, corn, and chrome free leather sourced from the Leather Working Group and has been repurposed as a by-product of the meat industry.

VEJA sells a combination of Gold-standard leather shoes and bio-based vegan styles, which they plan to expand in the future. Their shoes range from fun & colorful everyday sneakers to comfortable & supportive running shoes that feature shock absorption, lightweight cushioning, and natural rubber soles.

Range includes: Unisex sneakers, everyday footwear, velcro options, kids’ shoes

Our top picks: Impala Jacquard Black Cream Sneaker (Unisex), Condor 2 VEJA X Ciele Nautico Orange Fluo (Unisex), Esplar Se Canvas White Matcha (Unisex)

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13. Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather – Animal-Friendly Shoes Made With Long-Lasting Materials 

Budget: $110 – $270

Features: Cruelty-Free Practices, 100% Vegan Leather, Modern Fashion Designs, AppleSkin Leather

Sizes: Unisex sizes, full sizes

Looking for a sustainable shoe brand that cares as much for animal welfare as they do customer satisfaction? Check out Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather, a company that started their business with one main idea: selling cruelty-free vegan leather shoes and accessories that fit their customers’ comfort, modern fashion trends, and ethical principles.

Good Guys centers their choice of materials around ethical treatment of animals and the environment. Their shoes are 100% vegan, manufactured in local family-owned shops, and packaged using biodegradable materials. They keep their styles classic and durable to cut down on the number of pairs purchased. Customers report wearing the original Good Guys design 10 years later!

Good Guys carries eco friendly shoes for all occasions. The AppleSkin Collection features shoes made from recycled apple skins and cores from the fruit juice industry. They sources materials locally and ensures that they meet the Oekotex Standard 100 Class guidelines guaranteeing that companies use sustainable materials and practices to design their products.

Range includes: Sneakers, sandals, boots, clogs, everyday shoes

Our top picks: DAISY High heel vegan cowboy boots (Women’s), AYITA 2.0 Vegan Desert Boots (Men’s), MIMI Vegan Cross Strap Sandal (Women’s)

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14. Avesu – Retailer of Vegan Shoes 

Budget: $30 – $280

Features: Vegan Materials, Wide Style Selection & Budget Range, High-End Brands, Carbon-Neutral Shipping

Sizes: Full & half sizes, men’s & women’s

Avesu understands the difficulty in finding vegan shoe brands. Instead of spending hours searching for the perfect pair, their company has researched it for you! Avesu is an inventory of animal-free styles. Their website features popular eco friendly shoe brands, including TOMS, VEJA, AHIMSA, and Bourgeois Boheme.

Avesu conducts first-hand inspections with their suppliers to ensure they meet the requirements of cruelty-free practices, eco friendly manufacturing processes, and fair working conditions. They use carbon-neutral shipping through their partnership with DHL GoGreen Shipping services, which makes local deliveries using electric bikes and cars.

Avesu’s one-stop shop offers limitless options to fit any occasion and budget truly. Shop for sophisticated, high-grade faux leather business shoes for your next formal meeting. Or lace up a pair of waterproof hiking shoes made with GORE-TEX lining and built to last years of outdoor adventures.

Range includes: Heels, boots, business, fashion, elegant, hiking, flats, summer, running shoes, rain boots

Our top picks: The Lot Biker Boot by Perfect Jane, David Cognac Dress Shoe by AHIMSA, The Alpargata Canvas by TOMS

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Conclusion

Perhaps one of the most eco friendly steps we can take to encourage sustainable fashion is to take the time to research shoe brands before purchasing a pair. Avoid shoe brands that participate in fast fashion and perpetuate the pollution crisis. Shop sustainable shoe brands that take pride in the quality of their shoes and the Earth-friendly practices within their company.

FAQs

Is leather sustainable?

This list features a few sustainable footwear brands that repurpose animal hides from the meat industry. In some ways, repurposing cowhides from the meat industry is an ethical way to honor an animal’s life because otherwise, it would just be tossed into a landfill. However, severe environmental hazards are associated with the meat farming industry, including deforestation, excessive water consumption, and overusing land to grow feed crops instead of re-planting forests. 

To restore our planet’s health, we must refine our farming practices and cut down on meat consumption. Ultimately, using leather is not sustainable because it requires the same environmentally damaging techniques used to raise cows for meat. 

Is vegan leather sustainable?

Vegan leather is not considered sustainable when it’s manufactured using toxic synthetic fibers that make it difficult to recycle. However, there are several plant-based sustainable materials like AppleSkin, flax, and cork quickly becoming famous for their impressive quality.

Loved by some, loathed by others – but why do shoes have heels? And are we just suffering for the sake of fashion? It turns out high heels were originally invented for a more practical reason… 

The use of heels on shoes originated with horse riding; heeled shoes helped prevent the rider’s foot from slipping out of the stirrup. Nowadays, high heeled shoes are linked with fashion, though even running shoes have a small heel; the heel helps protect the shoe from wear. 

Been riding recently? Probably not – but I bet your shoe has a heel. When most people think of wearing heeled shoes they think of high heels, but actually almost every shoe and boot has a heel, which can be either attached or molded as part of the shoe. This applies to men’s shoes as well as women’s shoes. Why is this? Let’s dig a little deeper:

4 Reasons Shoes Have Heels – Is It Just a Fashion Thing?

Yes… and no. Let’s see:

Reason 1: Heels Are Fashionable

Yes, wearing high heeled shoes is fashionable for women (and has also been for men, at various times in history). In most cultures, the appearance of longer legs is considered attractive, and high heels are often also associated with higher status and wealth.

Wearing high heeled shoes has other physical affects as well – they lift your butt, make your calf muscles appear more defined, and enable a walking style that is considered more attractive than with a flat foot. And of course, when you look good, you also feel good; many people wear heels because they help increase their self-confidence.

Reason 2: Heels Make Us Taller

Who wouldn’t want to be just that little bit taller? High heel shoes (and even those with just slightly elevated heels) give us a psychological boost by lifting us up just a little bit higher. Research has also shown that taller people may be paid more, are seen as more confident, and are more successful in their careers! Who wouldn’t want all these benefits from wearing shoes?

Reason 3: Heels Help Protect Shoes From Wear

You may not be wearing high heels, but unless you’re wearing barefoot shoes, the chances are your shoes have a heel and offer some kind of heel lift. The reason for this is because when we walk (or run), our body’s weight lands first on the heel, and this is the area that experiences the greatest wear. To counter this, the heel on most shoes is made to absorb this energy and to protect the rest of your shoe from wear.

Reason 4: A Low Heel Can Alleviate Some Foot Pain

Although many associate wearing heels with foot pain, there are some circumstances where a moderate heel can actually help relieve pain. A small heel to toe drop (created by a heel) in combination with arch support can help distribute your weight across your foot instead of putting it all in one place. This can relieve pain from plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and even arthritis.

It should be noted that this benefit refers to small heels used as part of a shoe designed to be supportive. A high heel is more likely to cause plantar fasciitis than to relieve it!

What About Running Shoes – Why Do They Have an Elevated Heel?

Conventional running shoes often have an elevated heel to help provide cushioning when you heel strike (land on your heel), which is common when running. This also has the effect of shortening the Achilles tendon and the calf muscles.

However, greater heel height has been linked to Achilles tendonitis and other Achilles injuries, and many experts are now recommending a more balanced heel that can absorb shock without increasing injury risk.

Why Do Men’s Shoes Have Heels?

While men are less likely to wear shoes with high heels for fashion purposes (let’s hear it for all the fans of Cuban heels!), they still benefit from the psychological boost of the increased height. And of course, there’s always the protective benefit of the heel for the shoe itself, which ensures are shoes and boots last longer.

You’re looking forward to a big event this month, so you open your closet, slip on a fancy pair of shoes, take a few steps, and realize… they’re too big! Whether you’ve ordered a size too big or your favorite pair is overstretched from the countless times you’ve worn them, you are now left wondering how to make shoes smaller…

The best ways to make big shoes fit smaller is to purchase a pair of socks or inserts, utilize a service to resize them, or buy shoes that are more likely to be form-fitting due to their style and fabric.

In this article, we will discuss 7 different methods you can use to make big shoes fit smaller so that your feet will feel comfy and secure!

1. Seek professional shoe repair

Shoe repair shops aren’t just for replacing worn-out treads or patching up tears. Bringing your beloved shoes to a professional cobbler could lead to your favorite shoes getting a new life!

Repairing shoes instead of purchasing new ones reduces textile waste and limits energy consumption during the manufacturing process. Visiting your local cobbler is an eco-friendly way to reconstruct your shoes to fit your feet perfectly!

2. Buy no-show footies or cushioned socks

This may sound like an oversimplified method of making big shoes fit smaller — but you’d be surprised how effective this quick hack is! Look for a pair of thicker socks or no-show footies to line your shoes just right. The best part about using socks and footies to make your shoes tighter is that you can slip them on, throw them in the wash, and reuse them repeatedly.

Check out these companies:

MenoMieux No-Show Socks

No-show footies are a must-have for dressy closed toe shoes. MenoMieux is a sustainable fashion company that never produces any of its own fabric. Instead, they upCycle unwanted clothing, shoes, and other textiles.

Check out their zero-waste no-show socks, designed to discretely hug your feet and act as heel liners in your favorite pair of ballet flats or stilettos.

Smartwool Cushioned Socks

Smartwool is a leading company in manufacturing ethically-sourced wool socks and apparel. They are ZQ Certified, meaning they use ethical practices to source their wool and ensure the health and wellbeing of their sheep by providing adequate food, water, medical attention, and free-range pasture.

You don’t have to wear thick socks that leave your feet hot and sweaty. Lightly cushioned socks will fill out loose shoes just fine! Check out Smartwool’s line of athletic socks, which are made from natural wool and recycled nylon. The lightweight padding is breathable and the perfect choice for your sports shoes when you’re out for your morning jog!

3. Swap out your shoes using online consignment shops

Textile waste is a major environmental issue in the fashion industry. Thrifting is an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new shoes and can also help you save money when you decide to freshen up your wardrobe! If you own a pair of shoes that you just don’t love, consider swapping them for another gently-used pair through an online consignment store.

Check out these companies:

Reformation + thredUP

Reformation partners with thredUP, an online consignment shop where you can exchange your unwanted shoes for a pair that you will absolutely love! Search by size, style, condition, color, and price range to find the pair that will complement your outfit and save you money!

4. Purchase shoe insoles

Insoles! It’s a classic method of making shoes fit like they were personally constructed for your feet. Insoles act as shoe fillers that make your feet feel more snug. Insoles are commonly made of foam, which is hazardous to our environment. Fortunately, some companies opt to design insoles using eco-friendly materials that are biodegradable and safer for our planet.

You might want to check out these two sustainable insole manufacturers:

SOLE Insoles

SOLE is outstanding when it comes to designing high-quality, environment-safe insoles and footwear. Their website allows you to select your insole based on arch height, desired level of support, or even type of foot injury.

Their products are made with carbon-negative materials (materials that, when used, actually benefit the environment), such as cork and Bloom. Bloom is algae that is harvested from harmful algal blooms (HABs), which occur in water and pose dangerous risks to animals, people, and the environment. By using Bloom algae, SOLE actively reduces the damaging impact HABs have on our planet.

Fulton Insoles

Fulton insoles are made with cork, a carbon-negative material that actually improves the health of our planet! If your sneakers are feeling a little loose, insert a pair of Fulton insoles, and you will notice a difference in your comfort and overall posture. The insole padding is ergonomically designed to prevent orthopedic ailments and reduce chronic pain.

Fulton was founded based on medical research explaining why proper arch support is critical to our overall wellbeing. Not only do these multi-layered insoles feel like comfortable foot cushions, they also promote healthy alignment. To learn more about how Fulton insoles can improve your overall health, check out their information on arch support.

5. Customize your shoes

What’s the best way to guarantee your shoes will fit from the moment you slide them on your feet? Purchase a pair that has been pre-tailored to fit your feet perfectly! If you find yourself “in between sizes” when shopping for shoes, customizing your size is a sustainable way to get the look and feel you want!

Check out this company:

Solely Original Custom Shoes

Instead of visiting a shoe store, check out Solely Original to design a pair of custom shoes! Solely Original has the right idea when it comes to sustainable footwear! Instead of worrying about how to make shoes smaller, customize them to your exact foot dimensions from the start! You can design your shoes’ style, fit, fabric, color, and pattern. Your shoes will fit your unique footstep and show off your individual style!

6. Wear shoes that have flexible fabric

Another way to guarantee a good fit if you’re wondering how to make shoes smaller is to look for shoe material and sales that don’t require a perfect fit to feel comfy! Some shoes are strategically designed with suitable materials and structure to fit any foot like a glove! Flexible materials may include algae, faux suede, and cork, which are eco-friendly and tend to hug your foot just right!

Check out these companies:

Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather

Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather has received excellent reviews from their customers regarding quality craftsmanship, comfort, and attractive design. Everything from the shoe tongue pads to the outsoles is 100% vegan and thoughtfully designed to meet modern fashion trends.

If you enjoy wearing shoes that make a statement, you won’t go wrong with Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather! This well-known company supports animal welfare efforts by providing a vegan alternative to suede and leather shoes. Search for shoe styles that are made of vegan suede or AppleSkin™ (natural wastes from the apple juice industry).

Rothy’s

Rothy’s flats can be worn in both formal and casual settings! Their styles are versatile and classic — making them the ideal dress shoes to head to the office — or a colorful accessory to wear on a fun outing with friends. Choose from a wide selection of colors and patterns to match your unique look.

The upper portion is soft and form-fitting, while the insoles and outsoles are durable and comfortable. Rothy’s flats are made from Rothy’s Signature Thread (100% plastic water bottles). Also, there is no need to worry about getting these shoes wet because Rothy’s flats are completely machine-washable!

TOMS

TOMS is your classic everyday shoe! While the TOMS original design remains wildly popular, the company has since expanded its selection to include fashionable boots, sneakers, and wedges.

Their canvas shoes are mainly made of jute, which is an eco-friendly material due to low water and chemical usage. Learn more about TOMS’s earth-friendly missions!

7. Use heel liners to prevent shoes from rubbing and digging

Sometimes, all you need is a slight adjustment to make those high heels fit a little better without adding a bulky insert or ordering the next size up. Heel liners are small and compact, making them a convenient must-have item to carry when traveling. While heel liners can be used to prevent digging in tight shoes, they can also be used when your shoes are just a little too loose. Check out this company:

Vegetarian Shoes

You may find that many heel grips are made from animal-based leather and sheepskin. Fortunately, earth-friendly companies like Vegetarian Shoes manufacture their products using microfiber Fake Suede instead of animal-based leather. Vegetarian Shoes has an abundant selection of vegan shoe brands and accessories, such as shoelaces, shoe wax, and felt shoe inserts. Check out the Vegetarian Shoes Heel Liners, which may be the minor adjustment you need to prevent your shoes from rubbing against your heels and causing discomfort and painful blisters!

Conclusion

Depending on how much time you have to make big shoes fit smaller, you may consider trying a combination of these methods. Once your shoes are the right size, you may still consider purchasing an insole for an extra layer of comfort. Companies like SOLE and Reformation truly go above and beyond when caring for their customers, employees, and our planet. They are genuinely committed to satisfying their customers and making a positive impact in the world.

Those shoes you wear on your feet – what are they? Clothing? Accessories? Apparel? Garments? If you’ve ever wondered, it should come as no surprise that many people disagree on the exact definitions. Read on to find out answer!

Shoes are normally considered clothing, since people wear shoes for the purposes of protection and insulation. They are also apparel and footwear. However, in fashion and retail, they are often considered accessories, since they can be used to complete a particular look or outfit.

Confused yet? Us too. Read on for a more complete breakdown of each of these definitions and how they apply to shoes, as well as some counterarguments we’ve found:

Are Shoes Considered Clothing?

Yes, shoes are considered clothing. The broad definition of clothing is items that are worn to cover parts of the body, and shoes are often essential for protecting your feet. However, shoes are often separated from clothing in retail and fashion, where they are considered accessories since they are used to complement the main outfit.

The definition becomes less clear when considering items that provide less coverage. Are, for example, flip flops clothes? Although they lack coverage on top, they do protect the soles of the feet from getting hurt. They do however, feel less essential.

What about when shoes are no longer required? Some suggest that shoes are clothing when outdoors, but accessories indoors, where they are not essential. You might, for example, remove your shoes when entering someone’s house or a place of worship, but you wouldn’t normally stop wearing clothes!

Are Shoes Apparel?

Yes, shoes are considered apparel, which is another word for personal attire or clothing. Apparel broadly covers any item used to cover the body, and this includes shoes as well as clothes.

Are Shoes Garments?

Yes, shoes are commonly considered garments, which is typically used interchangeably with attire or clothing. Some sources indicate that garments are specific to the body, and that shoes are a separate category called footwear, although this is not universal – others consider footwear a subcategory of garments.

Are Shoes Accessories?

Accessories typically cover both accessories that can be worn, such as hats, belts, and jewelry, and carried accessories, such as handbags, purses, or even ceremonial swords.

Shoes are considered accessories in fashion and retail industry, where items are considered relative to the main outfit. In this case, shoes are accessories because they are used to accessorize or complement the main clothes. However, in general usage, some people prefer to call them clothes, since they are essential, rather than optional.

The definition then, depends upon your viewpoint, are you defining shoes as part of your outfit (in which case they are likely accessories) or through their utility (in which case they are clothes).

Conclusion

So there you have it. Shoes are commonly considered both clothing and accessories, although some people insist they sit squarely within one category only! In many cases, the answer will depend upon the context.

You’re out for a walk (or run) in the park when suddenly, the clouds grow dark, and it begins to rain. You were hoping to wear these shoes tomorrow! Wearing wet shoes leads to blisters, smelly odors, and not to mention, an uncomfortable day.

The best way to dry your shoes is to use a material that will absorb water, like newspaper or old clothes, or use a device that will extract moisture, such as Boot Bananas. Do not dry shoes in the clothes dryer as this may damage or shrink your shoes.

This article will discuss 6 different methods you can use to dry your shoes quickly. Remember, high heat will damage leather shoes. Always check manufacturer guidelines!

1: Dry Shoes With Newspaper

The newspaper method is one of the most well-known solutions to dry shoes quickly and safely. Newspaper can be reused to dry shoes fast!

Follow these steps:

1. Use warm water and a mild detergent to gently scrub away any excess dirt
2. Remove the insoles and dry these separately to ensure every part of your shoe is nice and dry before wearing them again
3. Loosen up or remove laces and dry them separately
4. Crumple up newspaper and push it deep into the toe of your shoe. Consider using pages of newspaper with less ink so that you don’t risk it running off onto the fabric
5. Wrap your shoes in absorbent fabric, like a bath towel. It will also help if the towel is warm.
6. Dry shoes overnight. Depending on the type of shoe, this may take more or less time.
7. Bonus tip: Place your towel-wrapped, newspaper-stuffed shoes near a heating vent or space heater

Green tip: After newspaper has absorbed the moisture from your shoes, cut it up into thin strips and add it to your compost bin.

Read more composting tips by checking out these articles: “How Often Should You Turn Your Compost Pile?” and “Mulch Vs. Compost: Which Should You Use?“

2: Speed Up The Drying Process With a Fan

Let the natural power of wind wick away moisture from smelly, soggy shoes. Whether you have a box fan, window fan, or standing fan, these options will work just perfectly to dry out your damp footwear.

Follow these steps:

1. Wash your shoes with warm water and soap
2. Remove the insoles and loosen shoelaces
3. Place a towel or sheet of newspaper underneath wet footwear to absorb excess moisture
4. Using a pair of S hooks (or two pieces of wire bent into an “S” shape), loop one side of the hook through the tongue of the shoe. Hook the other end around the fan
5. Leave the fan on medium or high speed for at least an hour or two.

3: Soak Up Moisture With Old Clothes

Repurposing products is an excellent way to reduce pollution in our environment. Instead of throwing them away, convert unwanted clothing into moisture-wicking rags that you can reuse many times over.

Fabrics like cotton, fleece, and flannel are absorbent in nature.

Follow these steps:

1. Scrub away excess mud or dirt
2. Remove insoles and loosen laces
3. Cut up unwanted clothes to the desired size
4. Scrunch up fabric & stuff it into the shoes
5. Let the fabric absorb moisture for 1-2 hours. Replace rags once they become saturated. Depending on the moisture level, you may need to allow shoes to dry overnight
6. Once they have finished the job, simply throw these rags into the dryer and save them to use for another time!

Learn more about the damaging impact textile waste has on our environment through this BBC article.

4: Utilize Your Heating System With TheEcoDryer

Shoe dryers get to the root of the problem! TheEcoDryer will dry wet shoes and winter gear without the use of electricity.

TheEcoDryer is a family-owned business and has partnered with Consumers Energy, an energy company that is shifting to renewable energy. Learn more about their Clean Energy Plan here. These two companies work together to promote eco-friendly product designs by hosting projects within their local community. Watch this video to hear their thoughts on building a brighter future.

Follow these steps:

1. Place the TheEcoDryer over a floor radiator or baseboard heating vent. This product uses warm air from a heating source to dry out the moisture from your boots or wet clothing
2. Allow shoes to dry for a few hours, depending on how wet they are

To learn more about TheEcoDryer and the company’s mission to develop eco-conscious solutions within their local community, check out their website or their store on Amazon.

5: Boot Bananas Make Your Shoe Fresh and Dry

Boot Bananas (Amazon link) keep your shoes smelling fresh and feeling dry, making them a great way to dry wet running shoes. This product is portable and does not require electricity or heat to function.
Place a pair in your wet running shoes after a workout at the gym or bring them on your ski trip to dry out ski boots after a day in the snow.

The deodorizer in Boot Bananas is composed of eco-conscious materials, such as bamboo charcoal, baking soda, zeolite, and essential oils. Zeolite is a volcanic mineral that easily absorbs moisture due to its unique composition. You can find a thorough description of the ingredients they use to build their products by visiting this page from their own website.

Follow these steps:

1. Gently shake the pouch to distribute the silica beads evenly.
2. Push the Boot Banana up to the toe of the shoe
3. Leave them in your shoes or boots for 4 to 6 hours (or longer if needed)
4. Boot Bananas have a lifespan of 6 to 12 months, although some customers have reported them lasting for two years if they care for them properly

Check out Boot Bananas’ website to learn more about their mission, product design, and care instructions to maintain exceptional performance. 

To ship outside of the UK, purchase your Boot Bananas on Amazon. Their shop includes Boot Bananas and the Original Shoe Deodorizer, suitable for running shoes.

6: Check Out The KOODER Boot & Shoe Dryer

You can use this shoe dryer countless times without needing to replace it. KOODER (Amazon link) has received significant positive feedback for its product design and quality, and the KOODER Boot & Shoe Dryers are a reliable and hassle-free way to ensure you can walk out the door in dry footwear in the morning.

Follow these steps:

1. Plug the shoe dryer into an outlet
2. Remove the insoles and shoe laces if you wish to dry these separately
3. Insert each Dryer into wet shoes
4. Leave the Dryers to dry shoes overnight, so your shoes will be good as new by the morning!

Purchase your Boot or Shoe Dryers through KOODER’s store on Amazon

Conclusion

Depending on the material of your shoes and how quickly you need to wear them, consider using a combination of these drying methods listed above.

Products like TheEcoDryer and Boot Bananas serve multiple purposes. Both products are commonly used to dry out wet winter gear. These companies care about the quality of their products and the needs of our environment.