When people hear the word “vegan,” they likely think of all things green, meat-free, and impossible (the burger, that is). Less often do we associate the term with feet (ew?), but those who think about living a cruelty-free lifestyle need warm shoes too. As a result, vegan leather has paved the way for animal-friendly alternatives used in the coolest of boots.
If you’re thinking this means wrapping up your feet in stylish seitan or trendy tempeh, let us stop you right there (as curious as we might be to see what exactly that would look like). Vegan leather shoes are made from durable, leather-like materials that simply don’t come from animal skin. According to PETA, the most common textile used to accomplish this is polyurethane, but designers have even been experimenting with innovative materials such as fruit waste and recycled plastics. While these alternatives are certainly not without their own environmental concerns, they avoid the greenhouse gas emissions associated with animal agriculture along with the use of energy and water consumption by tanneries, allowing for brands to reduce their overall impact on the planet when they stay away from leather altogether.
What’s more, is that none of this is at the expense of style. Even some of our favorite trends have gotten the animal-friendly treatment, with snake-effect faux-leather boots making their way to the top of our winter wardrobe wishlists. Popular brands like Dr. Martens and Free People are among a growing number of companies offering synthetic boot styles, and Stella McCartney‘s commitment to operating a modern and socially sustainable business has required using absolutely no leather since the brand’s inception. Ahead, shop a variety of our favorite faux-leather boots for a responsible upgrade your closet this season.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. The product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Matt & Nat Kalista Boot, $, available at Zappos
NastyGal Be Right Flare Faux Leather Block Heel Boots, $, available at NastyGal
Dr Martens Vegan 1460 Smooth Combat Boot, $, available at Amazon
Indigo Rd. Adrina Bootie, $, available at DSW
Matisse Vegan Going West Boot, $, available at Free People
Raid Janella Black Chunky Square Toe Zip Front Boots, $, available at ASOS
Stella McCartney Emilie Faux-Leather Platform Chelsea Boots, $, available at Matches Fashion
Juicy Couture Oodles Combat Boot, $, available at Macy’s
Coconuts by Matisse Clyde Boot, $, available at Nordstrom
Urban Outfitters Remy Chelsea Boot, $, available at Urban Outfitters
KG KURT GEIGER Tilly Mock-Croc Faux-Leather Ankle Boots, $, available at Selfridges & Co.
Mia Lace-Up Boot, $, available at Nordstrom
H&M Crocodile-Patterned Boots, $, available at H&M
Beyond Skin Blaise Black Leather Block Heel Vegan Boots, $, available at Beyond Skin
Rampage Italie Vegan Leather Riding Boot, $, available at Amazon
Soda Nevitt Faux Leather Chunky Boot, $, available at Amazon
Indigo Rd. Yasmina Booties, $, available at Macy’s
Monki Faux Leather Heeled Boots, $, available at ASOS
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
5 Outfits That Will Make Winter More Bearable
More Stories
New Forever 21 CEO plots post-bankruptcy comeback with physical stores
The New Laws Trying to Take the Anxiety Out of Shopping
Shop Prime Day savings before Black Friday